Today is the last day of the 2018 Georgia Legislature, also known as Sine Die. The capitol is filled with lawmakers working to get their bills passed before midnight. If the bills aren’t passed today, they will be tabled until next year.
Here’s a look at what’s happened at the capitol so far:
The Georgia state budget was approved before lunch time. The Georgia House approved the $26.2 billion state budget. It will be sent to Governor Nathan Deal’s desk on Thursday for a final signature. Both Clarke and Oconee County will receive increased school funding under this budget. Clarke County Schools will get an increase of $1.2 million, and Oconee County Schools will get an increase of $700,000.
House Bill 928 did not pass. The bill is designed to extend the period students are eligible to receive the HOPE scholarship. Bill sponsor Rick Williams says they will reintroduce the bill next year.
The Georgia House also approved House Bill 973. The bill requires lobbyists to sign a statement every year saying they have received and complied with the state’s sexual harassment policy. This bill does not include anything about penalties against those who violate it.
A few more bills are still on the table. Of note, a bill regarding an update to laws about distracted driving, as well as a measure intended to alter voting machines and times are still up for votes.
You can follow the happenings in the House and Senate via this livestream.
