2.19.26 Rules [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a prayer led by Chairman Stevens, emphasizing the importance of respectful disagreement. Representative Taylor presented House Bill 684, which mandates 30 hours of trichology education in barber and cosmetology schools. This bill aims to address the increasing cases of hair loss and scalp disorders, particularly in clients with health issues. The curriculum change would not require additional hours but would be integrated into the existing 15-hour curriculum. Representative Lewis Ward introduced HB 1222, which amends the Georgia Condo Act and the Georgia Property Owners Association Act to limit the charge for closing or settlement letters to $250. This bill had previously passed in 2019 but was vetoed by the governor due to the fee amount. Representative Home discussed HB 1134, which updates notification rules for reclaiming personal property during vehicle repossessions and clarifies the repossession process. Representative Cox presented HB 1131, which addresses the service of process for warrant applications, allowing for personal service. Chairman Petrie introduced HB 1097, which transfers the authority for criminal record checks and fingerprints for certain facilities to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. Representative Williams presented HB 675, which creates a felony for promoting terroristic material in Georgia, aligning state law with federal law. Questions arose regarding the bill's implications for free speech and the efficiency of state versus federal prosecution. Representative Liam introduced HB 641, ensuring electric utilities have policies regarding disconnections for customers with serious health conditions. Jim Chastain presented HB 1075, which changes the classification of pimping from a misdemeanor to a felony for individuals with prior convictions of human trafficking or sex trafficking. Chairman Parrish discussed HB 1020, a district attorney's retirement bill that raises the retirement age from 60 to 65 for new DAs starting in 2026. Representative Carson introduced HB 1199, an annual IRC conformity bill to align Georgia's tax code with recent changes in federal tax provisions. Chairman Powell presented HB 1095, which allows licensed fireworks distributors to use tents for temporary locations during holidays, clarifying that non-profits can use these for fundraising. The committee then moved to housekeeping matters, including recommitting House Bills 1042 and 1226 back to the judiciary. A calendar was set for upcoming bills, with motions and seconds for each, and it was noted that there would be no rules meeting on Friday, with a committee meeting scheduled for Monday at 11 a.m. The meeting concluded with adjournment.