January Legislative Update
The Georgia Legislature is back in session and one of the top priorities is the budget. To understand the process, it is important to remember that the Georgia Constitution requires a balanced budget. As a result, when revenues decline, expenditures must also decline. The State of Georgia generates revenues primarily through state income taxes, business income taxes, state sales taxes and various licenses and fees. As these revenues decline in the economic crunch, there is simply less money to spend, particularly on Georgia’s top four expenditures: 1) education (58% of the budget); 2) healthcare; 3) public safety; and 3) infrastructure. So, we can expect the Georgia Legislature and, thereafter, the Fulton County School System to make budget adjustments. To stay informed and receive up-to-date legislative information, go to www.georgiapta.org/issues-capitolwatch.html.
In terms of new legislation, the Georgia PTA identified the following bills because they affect children (governance and healthcare):
HR 1090, Kidd – 141 H. Government Affairs: Constitutional Amendment to have the governor serve one six-year term.
HR 1107, Mills – 25 H. Judiciary: Constitutional Amendment known as the Georgia Federal Health Care Nullification Amendment, to not compel any employer to provide health care insurance or any individual to obtain it.
Finally, for those parents who are able, we encourage you to volunteer your time in the classroom or through PTA. With many parents returning to work to make ends meet, PTA needs your help more than ever. Also, we encourage you to stay informed on the issues through local news sources and through PTA Action Alerts. To sign up for National PTA Takes Action, go to www.pta.org/takeaction/
