Senate passes FY2012 Budget

The Senate passed its version of the Fiscal Year 2012 budget on Wednesday that totals $18.2 billion. To increase revenues and improve state services, the Senate decided to focus resources on recovering tax dollars due to the state and improve frontline services to citizens and businesses. The budget adds approximately $23.5 million to increase compliance and recover uncollected taxes. The Department of Revenue estimates that this investment can generate $120 million in FY12 and $230 million in FY13. The Senate also dedicated funds to improve operations in state departments that provide services to citizens and businesses, such as license plates, business licenses and safety inspections. The Senate and House will now work together to reach a compromise on the final budget.

Child Safety Measure Passes General Assembly

I authored Senate Bill 88 to increase the required age of children in car seats from six to eight years of age. The type of restraint would remain dependent upon height and weight according to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety standards.  This bill is supported by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety and major pediatric hospitals around the state.  My bill is solely intended as a way to help save children’s lives by ensuring they are properly situated in a car. 

I was grateful to have the support of both the Senate and the House of Representatives as SB 88 passed out of the House this week and will soon head to Governor Deal’s office.  I am looking forward to working with him to get this much-needed child safety measure signed into law.

House Passes Weather Emergency Response Plan

I authored Senate Resolution 30 in the wake of the January ice storm urging the Georgia Department of Transportation to have a standby list of private contractors for state weather emergencies.  The measure also calls for GDOT to pre-authorize local governments to aid efforts for clearing state roads when necessary.  I am proud to report that the House has adopted SR 30 as we all work towards a statewide coordinated effort going forward in dealing with icy road conditions. 

General Assembly Approves 2011 Water Supply Act

The General Assembly agreed to legislation that would allow local governments to utilize public/private partnerships to finance water infrastructure projects. Senate Bill 122 would allow state and local governments to voluntarily partner with private investors on the construction of reservoirs and other water infrastructure projects.  The bill would provide a new option for financing as local governments and the state continue to face significant budget challenges.

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Sen. Jeff Mullis serves as Chairman of the Transportation Committee. He represents the 53rd Senate district which includes Chattooga, Dade, and Walker counties and portions of Catoosa County.  He can be reached at his office in Atlanta at 404.656.0057 or by email at jeff.mullis@senate.ga.gov.