Session Day 19: 2.17.26 [Source] Translate

The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming all members were present, followed by a prayer led by Chaplain Doyle Kelly, who emphasized love and unity. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and special guests, including Representative Lucy McBath and Congressman Sanford Bishop, were introduced. Bishop highlighted the importance of collaboration across party lines. Dr. Rita Livingston King was recognized as the doctor of the day. The journal from the previous legislative day was confirmed correct, and the order of business was established without objection. Several House bills were read for the first time, including: - House Bill 1292: Amending the Certificate of Deed Program. - House Bill 1293: Relating to Vocational, Technical, and Adult Education. - House Bill 1294: Concerning student health in education. - House Bill 1295: Regarding Physicians' Assistance. - House Bill 1296: Amending mental health regulations. - House Bill 1297: Authorizing a technology fee by the Magistrate Court of Pierce County. The meeting included discussions on various proposed bills, including: - House Bill 1298: Authorizing a technology fee by the Magistrate Court. - House Bill 1299: Amending regulations for county and municipal hospital authorities. - House Bill 1300: Amending savings trust account regulations. - House Bill 1301: Amending consumer report requirements. - House Bill 1303: Amending child cruelty laws. - House Bill 1304: Amending electricity sale regulations. - House Bill 1305: Amending regulations for general contractors. - House Bill 1306: Amending state treasurer regulations. - House Bill 1307: Incorporating the City of Brookhaven into Cab County. - House Bill 1308: Amending education regulations. - House Bill 1309: Amending regulations for practitioners of the healing arts. - House Bill 1310: Amending state symbols regulations. - House Bill 1312: Amending firearm possession laws. - House Bill 1313: Amending crimes and offenses laws. - House Bill 1314: Amending operating procedures. Resolutions were introduced to honor individuals and propose amendments related to education. Senate Bills 476 and 477 were also introduced, focusing on insurance and income tax regulations. The meeting recognized former Representative Ken Vance and honored Dewey McClain for his contributions to labor rights. A moment of silence was held for Louie Perry, Jr., and Sam Ashbury, with Representative Herring introducing House Bill 1045 to include mental health hotline information on student ID badges. Tributes were paid to Dr. Linda Davis and Reverend Jesse Jackson, with moments of silence observed. The assembly acknowledged various community contributions, including the Georgia School of Orthodontics and the Lunar New Year celebration. The rules calendar included the passage of several bills, including House Bill 1121, House Bill 662, House Bill 256, House Bill 1063, and House Bill 818, all passing with significant support. House Bill 987, concerning portable benefits for independent contractors, sparked debate regarding worker protections, ultimately passing with a majority vote. The meeting concluded with motions to suspend rules for additional bills and announcements of upcoming events, followed by a motion to adjourn until the next day, which was approved. Members were thanked for their participation.