Hatchett: Week Eleven Under the Gold Dome

On Monday, Georgia State Senator Bo Hatchett updated WNEG News and constituents on the eleventh week of the legislative session. Hatchett serves District 50 which includes Stephens, Banks, Franklin, Habersham, Rabun, and Towns County and portions of Hall, Jackson, and White counties. Hatchett also serves as one of two Floor Leaders in the Senate, selected by Governor Brian Kemp.

A full copy of Hatchett’s week eleven report is published below:

As the 2024 Legislative Session nears its conclusion, the Georgia Senate is in the midst of its final days, with only one week left to address legislative matters. This last week marks the culmination of our collective efforts as a caucus and as individual legislators.

I’m pleased to announce the passage of House Bill 935, widely recognized as the “Back the Blue Act.” This measure establishes the Back the Blue Fund, providing bonuses to certified peace officers across Georgia. I stand in unwavering support of our law enforcement personnel and commend the Republican caucus for their backing of this vital legislation.

Furthermore, the Georgia Senate has taken significant steps regarding various tax-related proposals through House Bill 1015, a priority initiative for Governor Brian P. Kemp. This bill reduces the income tax rate, thereby promoting economic growth and prosperity. HB 1015, which I carried on the Senate floor, will ensure that your hard-earned money stays in your pocket.

We have also taken further action against individuals seeking to harm Georgia communities and countries aiming to undermine our national security. Senate Republicans proudly passed House Bill 301 and House Bill 1105 this week, reaffirming our commitment to safety across all Georgia communities. HB 301 enables residents to seek declaratory judgments against local governments that enact dangerous immigration sanctuary policies, while HB 1105 mandates local law enforcement cooperation with federal authorities in enforcing immigration laws.

Furthermore, Senate Republicans passed multiple pieces of legislation specifically targeting foreign adversaries seeking to compromise our national security and financial stability. Earlier this week, we passed House Bill 185, which mandates Georgia’s University System to report certain funding received from foreign adversaries. Additionally, Senate Republicans were pleased to see Georgia’s House of Representatives pass Senate Bill 420, which prohibits dangerous foreign entities from acquiring land near secure areas, including military bases. As global security evolves, Georgia must remain prepared to adapt accordingly.

This week, I had the privilege of shepherding several measures through the Senate. Notably, House Bill 456 passed, which aims to amend the terms of appointment for municipal judges and establishes grounds for municipalities to remove them for breaching contracts. Additionally, House Bill 873 was approved, paving the way for the creation of juvenile treatment court divisions and offering alternative adjudication to the traditional judicial systems.

Furthermore, two additional bills I sponsored, House Bill 663 and House Bill 1203, cleared the Senate at week’s end. HB 663, known as the No Patient Left Alone Act, outlines specific rights for minors and adults admitted to hospitals and long-term care facilities. This measure holds significant importance for both my family and I, as well as many other families statewide. This bill will solidify the right for a patient to see their loved one, even during a potential future pandemic. As for HB 1203, it grants landlords the ability to enlist off-duty sheriffs or similar officials to carry out writs of possession. With these bills now approved by both chambers, they await the Governor’s signature to become law.

I am thrilled to announce the continued progress of my legislative priorities in the House chamber, one being Senate Bill 493. SB 493 addresses a crucial issue by imposing additional penalties on registered sexual offenders convicted of photographing a minor without parental or guardian consent. This measure, which I am honored to have authored, serves to safeguard the children of our state.

Each week, constituents, associations and organizations alike come to the Capitol to visit the Senate chamber. Senate members were honored to welcome the family and friends of Laken Riley, a former UGA student who was tragically murdered by an illegal immigrant who used our nation’s porous federal immigration policy to cause harm. I continue to pray for the family and friends of Laken, the Athens community and our state as we grieve this unimaginable and completely unnecessary loss. 

Please never hesitate to contact my office if I can assist with legislative matters as the 2024 Legislative Session enters its final week.