Future Of Historic Rome Courthouse Remains Uncertain

Officials in Rome say there is still significant uncertainty surrounding the future of the historic Floyd County Courthouse following a massive fire that tore through the landmark.

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Today Is Sine Die As Georgia Legislature Reaches Final Day Of 2026 Session

Today is Sine Die at the Georgia State Capitol, the final day of the legislative session when lawmakers must give final approval to bills if they are to become law this year. The term “Sine Die” is Latin for “without a day,” meaning the General Assembly adjourns without setting a date to return for the current session.

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Chattooga County Approves Five-Year Water Rate Increase

Chattooga County residents will soon see changes to their water bills after Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen approved a plan to gradually increase rates over the next five years.

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Deadline Approaching For Georgia Annual Business Registration

Georgia business owners are being reminded that the annual registration deadline with the Secretary of State’s office is fast approaching.

All businesses, including LLCs and corporations, must complete their annual registration for 2026 by April 1 to remain in active compliance. The standard filing fee is $50 for most businesses.

Officials warn that failing to file by the deadline will result in a $25 late penalty and could eventually lead to administrative dissolution or revocation of the business entity.

Business owners are encouraged to file online through the Georgia Secretary of State’s website to ensure timely processing and avoid penalties.

Arrest Report – Sunday – March 29, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, March 29, 2026:

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Georgia Bill Targeting Mugshot Websites Raises Concerns From Press Advocates

A bill moving through the Georgia Legislature aims to crack down on websites that profit from mugshots and graphic public records, but it is also raising concerns among free speech advocates and news organizations.

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Invasive Hornets Pose Growing Threat In Georgia, Officials Urge Residents To Be Alert

Georgia officials are continuing to warn residents about the growing threat posed by the invasive yellow-legged hornet, a species that can create serious problems for honeybees, agriculture, and the environment.

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Atrium Floyd EMS Honored As Region 1 Service Of The Year, Local Paramedic Recognized

Atrium Health Floyd EMS has been named Georgia Region 1 EMS Service of the Year, highlighting the organization’s dedication to emergency care across Northwest Georgia.

In addition to the agency honor, Chattooga County paramedic Greg Hawkins, known as “Hawk,” received the prestigious Dr. James Creel Pioneer Award, recognizing outstanding service and leadership in emergency medical services.

The awards were presented by the Northwest Georgia Regional Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council on March 26, 2026.

Local officials and colleagues are praising both Atrium Floyd EMS and Hawkins for their commitment to saving lives and serving their communities with excellence.

WZQZ News congratulates all involved on this well-deserved recognition.

Georgia Bill Aims To Return Billions In Unclaimed Money To Residents

A proposed bill in Georgia could help return billions of dollars in unclaimed money to residents, but the effort is facing challenges at the State Capitol.

Lawmakers say the state is currently holding more than $3 billion in unclaimed property, which includes things like uncashed checks, old bank accounts, refunds, and other funds that belong to individuals.

The legislation would allow the Georgia Department of Revenue to automatically match records and send checks directly to residents, especially for smaller amounts, without requiring people to file a claim.

Supporters say the goal is to make it easier for Georgians to get their money back faster, cutting down on paperwork and making the process more efficient. However, the proposal has raised concerns among some lawmakers because parts of the bill could allow the state to take ownership of certain funds if they remain unclaimed for long periods of time.

The bill has already passed the State Senate but has stalled in a House committee, leaving its future uncertain as the legislative session continues.

Tyson Foods To Close Rome Plant, Impacting Local Workforce

A longtime manufacturing facility in Rome is set to close, as Tyson Foods announces it will cease operations at its plant on Darlington Drive later this spring.

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