Georgia House drops controversial legislation, guards against stolen valor with Georgia Military Service Integrity and Preservation Act
Monday, February 29 marked “Crossover Day” in the Georgia legislature. This is the last day for a bill to pass the House and make its way to the Senate, and vice versa, in order to have any chance of passing in this years legislative session. We started early and finished late, but by the end of the night I was pleased with the majority of the legislation we had sent across the Capitol. It will be interesting to see how the Senate views the bills we sent them, and I look forward to seeing the legislation they send over for our approval.
In this column, I’d like to highlight a few bills that I’ve received the most questions and comments about. Medical cannabis has been a very popular topic since it was introduced in the 2015 Session. Last years HB 1 legalized low level THC cannabis oil for certain registered medical conditions in Georgia, but left few options for its purchase. HB 722 was introduced this year asking for cultivation of the product, however after much committee review it was amended to only expand new medical conditions available for registration and cultivation was not allowed. Georgia is taking a slow, measured approach to this situation, and because of this, the bill passed overwhelmingly. I believe that we will continue to see more discussion on this issue with each new Session.
A bill that I have championed every year since I’ve been in the legislature also passed with great support. HB171 strengthens our Georgia courts by reaffirming that only American law and Georgia code should be used in making judicial decisions. As times change, we have seen aspects of other law creep into our court systems, and this bill puts a safety valve on this problem. It’s a real concern and something that many of you have talked with me about. I’m glad we got it passed and look forward to working with the Senate to make certain that it becomes law.
The biggest concern that I heard from you about was the possibility of casino gambling in Georgia. Overwhelmingly this district was opposed to this expansion, and the House agreed with your position. We chose not to take it up, and the issue is now dead for the year. I think that is a very good decision for Georgia and it now gives us the opportunity to move on with other positive ideas to help improve our economy.
On a personal note, I was very pleased to sponsor HB 12 (Georgia Military Service Integrity and Preservation Act). This bill made it a crime to profit from claiming to be a veteran or to benefit by saying that you had received a military award or decoration that you were not entitled to. Over 1.2 million Americans have died to preserve our freedom, and millions more have proudly worn the American military uniform to keep this country safe. We owe it to them to not let their integrity be compromised. This was a bipartisan bill, and I can’t tell you how proud I was when the entire house voted unanimously in it’s favor. It’s a strong testimony to the respect our veterans deserve.
The session is flying by and our target date for adjournment is March 24. I’m really looking forward to being home full-time and getting around the district. As always, I’m humbled and blessed to represent the finest people in Georgia and you are always my top priority. If I can ever be of any help in any way please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I can be reached at 404-656-7737 or by email at [email protected].
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rep. Terry Rogers (R-Clarkesville) represents Georgia House District 10. His district includes portions of Habersham and White Counties.
