Crossover Day is quickly approaching as we conclude the eighth week of the 2023 Georgia Legislative Session, with 64 bills on the calendar for Monday, March 6. The week was filled with a plethora of bills, committee hearings, and advocacy groups that graced the halls of the State Capitol.

The Senate body carefully considered each bill presented this week, with a few measures of note. Senate Bill 129, sponsored by Sen. Rick Williams (R – Milledgeville), would allow for employers to give their employees time off to advance vote in Georgia elections. Current law gives two hours to employees to vote on Election Day, and this legislation would extend the dates allowed to request time off to vote as long as employees give adequate notice to their employers. I am proud of the Senate for coming together to pass this measure with a bipartisan vote to ensure that Georgians have more opportunities to perform one of the most important civic responsibilities in this country.

In addition, Senate Bill 107, sponsored by Sen. Max Burns (R – Sylvania), would require the Department of Public Health to develop a safety plan for aquatic activities based on the standards for nationally accredited private swim instructors. SB 107 would also require that The Department of Public Health would make the aquatic plan widely accessible and downloadable. Parents should be able to trust that their children are safe when in the care of a swimming instructor, and this legislation is much needed guidance within this arena.

I’d also like to note that my legislation, Senate Bill 148, has passed the Senate and been sent on to the House for further consideration. The measure would update and modernize the nonprofit corporate code for the state to bring it more in line with the Model Nonprofit Corporation Act and the Georgia Business Corporation Code. This legislation aims to deter unclear and outdated provisions within the current code by making the language consistent with changes in technology and communications. SB 148 provides protections for the Office of the Attorney General and Secretary of State to reflect current operations. This bill would also aim to ensure appropriated funds are well spent and operations are successful. I look forward to presenting this measure in its respective House committee in the coming days.

On Monday, it was a pleasure to welcome members of the Mercer Law Moot Court Team to the Senate Chamber. These students work rigorously with faculty to hone their oral and written communication skills and use them during their respective competitions. Over the past 14 months, Mercer Law students have won national championships in the National Moot Court Competition, the All-Star National Mock Trial Bracket Challenge, the American Bar Association Negotiation Competition, and the American Bar Association Client Counseling Competition. I look forward to seeing great things from these students in the years to come as they pursue careers in the judicial sector.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office if you have any questions or concerns regarding legislative matters. My door is always open, and it is an honor to serve Georgia’s 18th senate district as the 2023 Legislative Session marches on.