New Georgia Law Allows Property Owners To Sue Over Public Nuisance Enforcement

A new Georgia law taking effect July 1st will allow property owners to seek compensation if they believe local governments are not doing enough to enforce public nuisance laws.

House Bill 295 applies to issues such as public camping, vandalism, and panhandling. Supporters say the law is designed to push cities and counties to enforce existing ordinances when public nuisance activity hurts businesses, property values, or public safety.

State Representative Jesse Petrea, who co-sponsored the bill, said some business owners have complained about losing customers and property value when people feel unsafe near encampments or panhandling areas.

However, critics worry the law could have a negative impact on people experiencing homelessness. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said public spaces should remain open to everyone as long as people are not creating a nuisance.

Property owners who file claims will have to prove that nuisance behavior caused financial loss and that local government willfully failed to enforce the law.

House Bill 295 became law on May 12th and is scheduled to take effect July 1st.

Jones and Jackson Advance to GOP Runoff for Georgia Governor

Georgia Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones has advanced to a Republican runoff in the race for governor following Tuesday’s Primary Election.

According to statewide results, Jones and businessman Rick Jackson emerged as the top two Republican candidates and will now face each other in a runoff election. Neither candidate received the required majority of votes needed to secure the nomination outright.

Jones, who currently serves as Georgia’s lieutenant governor, carried a number of counties across Northwest Georgia, including strong support in Chattooga County. Jackson also performed well statewide, setting up what is expected to be a closely watched runoff race in the coming weeks.

The winner of the Republican runoff will advance to the General Election later this year.

Gov. Kemp Signs New Bills Supporting Georgia Law Enforcement

Governor Brian Kemp signed multiple pieces of legislation this week aimed at strengthening public safety and supporting law enforcement officers across Georgia during a ceremony following the annual Public Safety Memorial Ceremony in Forsyth.

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Big Money And Endorsements Pour Into Georgia Races Ahead Of Primary

With Georgia’s primary election approaching, campaigns across the state are ramping up efforts as major endorsements and large amounts of campaign money begin to shape key races.

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