Hatchett: Week One under the gold dome

The New Year signals the start of another Legislative Session here under the Gold Dome, and I’m enthusiastic about representing the hardworking constituents of the 50th Senate District once again. Throughout this session, my commitment remains unwavering—to serve the people of District 50 and contribute to making Georgia the best place to live and work.

During the interim, I had the honor of chairing the Senate Study Committee on Rural Medical Personnel Recruitment. Being a rural Georgia native, I’ve witnessed firsthand the negative impact of a shortage of medical personnel on families outside metro Atlanta. While the committee has concluded its work, its recommendations will form the basis for various measures to be considered by the Senate. Additionally, as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Children and Families, I’m eagerly anticipating positive reforms resulting from the actions taken by this committee.

The 2024 Session holds significant importance as we continue to pass effective legislation, prioritizing the hardworking citizens of Georgia. The first week kicked off with the Senate convening on the Senate floor and concluded with Governor Brian P. Kemp’s State of the State address. The address served as a platform for the Governor to outline his legislative and budgetary priorities, emphasizing public safety, school choice, and pay raises for teachers. I am eager to collaborate with colleagues on both sides of the aisle throughout this session in support of Gov. Kemp.

This week marks the beginning of Budget Week. I look forward to collaborating closely with Gov. Kemp and State Departments as we discuss and amend the Fiscal Year 2024 budget and outline the Fiscal Year 2025 budget in several subcommittee hearings. It’s our responsibility to ensure your tax dollars are allocated fairly.

While this session promises to be fast-paced and busy, rest assured that I will keep your needs and concerns at the forefront of every decision I make. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office for any questions or concerns. Together, let’s navigate this session for the betterment of Georgia.

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Sen. Bo Hatchett serves as a Governor’s Administration Floor Leader. He represents the 50th Senate District, which includes Banks, Franklin, Habersham, Rabun, Stephens, and Towns County and portions of Hall, Jackson, and White counties. He can be reached by phone at 404-651-7745 or by email at [email protected].