SB 153: Official Code of Georgia Annotated; revise, modernize, correct errors or omissions in, and reenact the statutory portion of said Code

Senate Bill 153

By: Senators Hatchett of the 50th, Kennedy of the 18th, Jones II of the 22nd, Cowsert of the 46th, Parent of the 44th and others

AS PASSED

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

To amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, so as to revise, modernize, correct errors or omissions in, and reenact the statutory portion of said Code, as amended, in furtherance of the work of the Code Revision Commission; to repeal portions of said Code, or Acts in amendment thereof, which have become obsolete, have been declared to be unconstitutional, or have been preempted or superseded by subsequent laws; to codify principles of law derived from decisions of the state Supreme Court; to provide for other matters relating to revision, reenactment, and publication of said Code; to provide for effect in event of conflicts; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA:

SECTION 1.

Reserved.

SECTION 2.

Title 2 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to agriculture, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 2-10-57, relating to authority of Commissioner to provide for safety and security at farmers' markets and police powers, in the introductory language of subparagraph (b)(1)(F), by replacing the semicolon with a colon.

SECTION 3.

Reserved.

SECTION 4.

Title 4 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to animals, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 4-11-3, relating to licenses for pet dealers and kennel, stable, or animal shelter operators, requirement, issuance, and application, in paragraph (c.1)(4), by deleting "and reserved".

SECTION 5.

Reserved.

SECTION 6.

Reserved.

SECTION 7.

Title 7 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to banking and finance, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 7-1-612, which is reserved, by designating said Code section as repealed.

(2) Code Section 7-1-689, relating to record keeping, investigation and examination requirements and powers, and limitations on civil liability, in paragraph (l)(1), by replacing "and telephone, facsimile," with "telephone number, facsimile number,".

(3) Code Section 7-1-706, relating to record keeping, investigation and examination requirements and powers, and limitation on civil liability, in paragraph (l)(1), by replacing "and telephone, facsimile," with "telephone number, facsimile number,".

(4) Code Section 7-1-1009, relating to record keeping, investigations and examinations, and exemptions from civil liability, in paragraph (g)(1), by replacing "and telephone," with "telephone number,".

(5) Code Section 7-1-1011, relating to annual fees, in subsection (a), by replacing "mortgage broker," with "a mortgage broker,".

(6) Code Section 7-1-1017, relating to suspension or revocation of licenses or mortgage broker education approval, notice, judicial review, and effect on preexisting contract, in subsection (b), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in" and by replacing "their" with "his or her".

(7) Code Section 7-3-18, which is reserved, by designating said Code section as repealed.

(8) Code Section 7-9-8, relating to the issuance of certificate of incorporation or certificate of organization, at the end of paragraph (3), by inserting a comma and in the undesignated text at the end of the Code section, by replacing "name of" with "the name of".

(9) Code Section 7-9-11.8, relating to rights and remedies of shareholders, in subsection (a), by replacing "known as the 'Georgia Business Corporation Code' or" with "the 'Georgia Business Corporation Code,' or" and in paragraph (b)(1), by replacing "resulting acquirer" with "resulting merchant acquirer".

SECTION 8.

Title 8 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to buildings and housing, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 8-3-311, relating to creation of stable housing accountability programs, application process, minimum standards, approval criteria, and funding, in the introductory language of subsection (d), by replacing "At minimum," with "At a minimum,", in subparagraph (d)(6)(A), by replacing "U.S." with "United States", in subparagraph (d)(6)(E), by replacing "heath" with "health", and in paragraph (e)(2), by replacing "their" with "his or her".

(2) Code Section 8-3-312, relating to disbursements for operating expenses, by replacing "provided the commission" with "provided to the commission".

SECTION 9.

Reserved.

SECTION 10.

Title 10 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to commerce and trade, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 10-1-427, relating to false advertising of legal services, good faith exemptions, investigation and enforcement by Attorney General, and penalties for violation of cease and desist order, in paragraph (a)(3), by replacing "Internet search engine ad," with "internet search engine advertisement,".

(2) Code Section 10-1-782, relating to definitions regarding the "Georgia Lemon Law," in paragraph (23), by inserting "by" preceding "90,000".

(3) Code Section 10-4-111, relating to meetings of advisory board, duties, fixing opening date of marketing season, and revocation of license for early sale, by repealing and reserving said Code section.

(4) Article 7 of Chapter 6, which is reserved, by repealing said article.

SECTION 11.

Reserved.

SECTION 12.

Reserved.

SECTION 13.

Reserved.

SECTION 14.

Reserved.

SECTION 15.

Title 15 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to courts, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 15-5B-12, as effective on July 1, 2026, relating to proceedings, filing procedures, service, and scheduling, in subsection (f), by replacing "address of the of the" with "address of the".

(2) Code Section 15-10-101, relating to eligibility of constables, in paragraph (a)(4), by replacing "accredited high school diploma or general educational development (GED)" with "approved high school equivalency (HSE)".

(3) Code Section 15-11-71, relating to juvenile treatment court divisions, in the introductory language of paragraph (a)(3), by replacing "increase likelihood" with "increase the likelihood" and in subsection (f), by replacing "may have the authority" with "shall be authorized".

(4) Code Section 15-12-40.1, relating to state-wide master jury list, driver's license information, list of registered voters, and random list of persons to comprise venire, in subsection (b), by replacing "or personal identification card" with "or identification card" each time the phrase appears and by replacing "or a personal identification card" with "or an identification card".

SECTION 16.

Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to crimes and offenses, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 16-5-3.1, relating to aggravated involuntary manslaughter for fentanyl overdose death, in paragraph (a)(3), by replacing "shall mean" with "means", in paragraph (a)(4), by replacing "shall include" with "includes", and in subsection (c), by replacing "10 years" with "ten years".

(2) Code Section 16-5-20, relating to simple assault, in subsections (c) and (f), by replacing "For purposes of this Code section," with "As used in this Code section, the term", in the undesignated text at the end of subsection (h), by replacing "For the purposes of" with "As used in" and by replacing "homo sapiens" with "Homo sapiens", and in subsection (i), by replacing "their" with "his or her".

(3) Code Section 16-5-21, relating to aggravated assault, in subsection (m), by replacing "their" with "his or her".

(4) Code Section 16-5-23, relating to simple battery, in subsection (d), by replacing "For purposes of this Code section," with "As used in this Code section, the term", in subsection (i), by replacing "For purposes of this Code section, 'school property' shall include" with "As used in this Code section, the term 'school property' includes", and in subsection (j), by replacing "their" with "his or her".

(5) Code Section 16-5-23.1, relating to battery, in subsection (g), by replacing "For purposes of this Code section," with "As used in this Code section, the term", in subsection (i), by replacing "For purposes of this Code section, 'school property' shall include" with "As used in this Code section, the term 'school property' includes", and in subsection (l), by replacing "their" with "his or her".

(6) Code Section 16-5-24, relating to aggravated battery, in subsection (i), by replacing "their" with "his or her".

(7) Code Section 16-7-21.1, relating to unlawful squatting, by revising said Code section as follows:

"16-7-21.1.

(a)(1) A person commits the offense of unlawful squatting when he or she enters upon the land or premises of another and resides on such land or premises for any period of time knowingly acting without the knowledge or consent of the owner, the rightful occupant, or an authorized representative of the owner. As used in For purposes of this Code section, the term 'resides' means to inhabit or live on or within any land or premises.

(2) Any person who commits or is accused of committing the offense of unlawful squatting as provided for in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall receive a citation advising that they must he or she shall present to the head of the issuing law enforcement agency or their designee its designee, within three business days of receiving the citation for such alleged offense, properly executed documentation that authorizes the person's entry on such land or premises. Such documentation may include a properly executed lease or rental agreement or proof of rental payments.

(3) If such person is unable to provide the documentation required by paragraph (2) of this subsection, such person shall be subject to arrest for unlawful squatting and, upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to the penalty provided in subsection (b) of this Code section.

(4) If such person does provide provides documentation that authorizes such person's entry on the land or premises, a hearing shall be set within seven days of the submission of such documentation, and, if the court of appropriate jurisdiction finds that the submitted documentation was not properly executed or is not meritorious, such person shall be subject to demand for possession and removal as provided in Code Section 44-11-32, be subject to arrest and upon conviction penalties as provided for in Code Sections 16-9-1 and 16-9-2, and shall be assessed an additional fine based on the fair market monthly rental rate of the land or premises.

(b) Any person who violates subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor which upon conviction shall be punishable punished as provided in Code Section 17-10-3."

(8) Code Section 16-7-23, relating to criminal damage to property in the second degree, in paragraph (a)(2), by inserting a comma following "fireworks".

(9) Code Section 16-11-171, relating to definitions regarding Brady Law regulations, in paragraph (4), by inserting "of Chapter 7" following "Article 6".

(10) Code Section 16-13-71, relating to dangerous drugs, by revising numerous paragraphs in subsection (b), subparagraph (b)(59)(BB.5), and paragraph (c)(16.92) as follows: "(57.5) Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed vaccine adsorbed, Adjuvanted;" "(BB.5) House Dust Mite Allergen Extract dust mite allergen extract;" "(160.5) Chikungunya Vaccine vaccine, Live;" "(206.7) Coagulation Factor X, (human) Human;" "(247.4) Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine tetravalent vaccine, Live;" "(317.3) Dornase Alpha alpha;"

"(328.3) Ebola Zaire Vaccine vaccine, Live;" "(361.5) Reserved;"

"(383.15) Ferric Hexacyanoferrate hexacyanoferrate;" "(386.3) Reserved;"

"(425) Gomenol Solution solution;"

"(433.5) Halobetasol Propionate propionate;"

"(446.2) Human Papillomavirus papillomavirus 9-valent Vaccine vaccine, Recombinant;" "(509.7) Reserved;"

"(512.691) Reserved;"

"(529.93) Reserved;"

"(703.43) Reserved;"

"(731.1) Reserved;"

"(732.9) Reserved;"

"(836.1) Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine syncytial virus vaccine;" "(851.02) Reserved;"

"(855.5) Sermorelin Acetate acetate;"

"(945.5) Reserved;"

"(1025.8) Varicella Virus Vaccine Live virus vaccine, Live;" "(1037.23) Von von Willebrand factor;"

"(1042.8) Zoledronic Acid acid;"

"(1042.95) Zoster Vaccine Recombinant vaccine recombinant, Adjuvanted;" "(16.92) Any opioid antagonist, as defined in Code Section 26-4-116.2, shall also be exempt from subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section when used for drug overdose prevention and when supplied by a dispenser or an authorized wholesale distributor.;".

(11) Code Section 16-13-122, relating to content of kratom and required labeling, in paragraph (b)(1), by deleting "of".

SECTION 17.

Title 17 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to criminal procedure, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 17-6-12, relating to unsecured judicial release, requirement, effect of failure of person charged to appear for trial, and consideration of criminal record, in subparagraph (a)(1)(GG), by replacing "Code Section 16-10-29;" with "Code Section 16-10-24;".

(2) Code Section 17-10-7, relating to punishment of repeat offenders and punishment and eligibility for parole of persons convicted of fourth felony offense, in subsection (e), by replacing "recidivous" with "recidivist".

SECTION 18.

Reserved.

SECTION 19.

Title 19 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to domestic relations, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 19-6-9, relating to voluntary separation, abandonment, or driving off of spouse and equity may compel support, by deleting "and as may be".

(2) Code Section 19-6-32, relating to entering income withholding order or medical support notice for award of child support, when order or notice effective, and hearing on order, in paragraph (a)(2), by replacing "means judge" with "means a judge" and in paragraph (a)(5), by replacing "42 U.S.C. Section 666(b)(A)(I) and (ii)" with "42 U.S.C. Section 666(b)(6)(A)(i) and (ii)".

(3) Code Section 19-6-33, relating to notice and service of income withholding order, hearing on enforcement of order, discharge of obligor, and penalties, in paragraph (a)(2), by replacing "means judge" with "means a judge".

(4) Code Section 19-6-33.1, relating to family support registry, in subparagraph (e)(2)(A), by replacing "arrears or" with "arrears, or".

SECTION 20.

Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to education, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 20-2-37, which is reserved, by designating said Code section as repealed.

(2) Code Section 20-2-38, which is reserved, by designating said Code section as repealed.

(3) Code Section 20-2-167.1, relating to public meetings on proposed annual operating budget, notice, electronic copies, and exception for certain nonprofits, in paragraph (a)(2), by replacing "system and," with "system,".

(4) Code Section 20-2-751.4, as effective on July 1, 2025, relating to policies prohibiting bullying and cyberbullying required, enforcement of policies including assignment to alternative school, notice, antibullying training programs and materials, limitation of liability, and noncompliance, by revising the introductory language of subparagraph (1)(A) as follows: "(1)(A) 'Bullying' Bullying' ' means an act that is:"

(5) Code Section 20-2-775, relating to automated external defibrillator required in high schools, requirements, and funding, in subparagraph (c)(7)(D), by deleting the comma following "leads".

(6) Code Section 20-2-776.5, relating to opioid antagonists, possession, administration, obligations, and immunity from civil liability, at the end of subsection (g), by inserting a period following "known".

(7) Article 1 of Chapter 3, relating to postsecondary education generally, by designating Code Section 20-3-1, relating to definitions, as Part 1.

(8) Code Section 20-3-38, relating to agricultural extension work, in subsection (a), by replacing "U.S.C.A." with "U.S.C.".

(9) Code Section 20-3-41.2, relating to surrender of materials to division for preservation, preparation of certified copies, ownership, operation, and management of electronic archival records, exemption for certain records under certain conditions, and "constitutional officer" defined, in subsections (a) through (c), by inserting "of the University System of Georgia" following "Division of Archives and History" each time the term appears.

(10) Code Section 20-3-41.3, relating to study of historical documents and public displays of the Foundations of American Law and Government, in paragraph (a)(1), by inserting "of the University System of Georgia" following "Division of Archives and History".

(11) Code Section 20-3-45, relating to Georgia Historical Records Advisory Council created, purpose, members, expenses, coordinator, officers, meetings, administrative assignment, and staff, in subsections (c) and (h), by replacing "the Division of Archives and History" with "the division".

(12) Code Section 20-3-45.1, relating to powers and duties of the Georgia Historical Records Advisory Council, in paragraph (2), by replacing "the Division of Archives and History" with "the division".

(13) Code Section 20-3-48, relating to short title, public forums designated, "free speech zones" prohibited, allowed restrictions, protected expressive activity, construction, required materials, and annual reporting, in paragraph (b)(5), by replacing "This term" with "Such term".

(14) Code Section 20-3-60, relating to when properties of university system may be sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of, effect of restrictions on use, and works of art, in subsection (a) and in the undesignated text at the end of paragraph (c)(2), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that," and in paragraph (c)(1), by replacing "The term 'work of art'" with "Such term" each time the phrase appears.

(15) Code Section 20-3-66, relating to determination of in-state resident status of students for tuition or fees, in the undesignated text at the end of paragraph (a)(4), by replacing "the term 'student from a homeless situation'" with "such term".

(16) Code Section 20-3-67, relating to powers of regents over system and institutions over students not limited by lowering age of majority, by replacing "the system" with "the university system".

(17) Code Section 20-3-92, relating to definitions regarding postsecondary education, in paragraph (5), by replacing "The term" with "Such term" and by replacing "is recognized as a student organization" with "are recognized as student organizations".

(18) Code Section 20-3-130, relating to short title regarding junior colleges and name of junior college system, by replacing "shall be known as" with "shall be known and may be cited as" each time the phrase appears.

(19) Code Section 20-3-131, relating to definitions regarding junior colleges, in paragraph (2), by replacing "county school system, independent school system," with "local school system,".

(20) Code Section 20-3-132, relating to authority to establish and maintain junior colleges, by replacing "county school system, independent school system," with "local school system," each time the phrase appears.

(21) Code Section 20-3-150, relating to short title regarding Georgia Education Authority (University), by replacing "may be cited" with "shall be known and may be cited".

(22) Code Section 20-3-200, relating to short title regarding Private Colleges and Universities Authority, by replacing "may be cited as" with "shall be known and may be cited as".

(23) Code Section 20-3-201, relating to definitions regarding Private Colleges and Universities Authority, in paragraph (4), by replacing "'Construction project' also means" with "Such term also means" and by replacing "The term 'construction project' also means" with "Such term also means", in paragraph (5), by replacing "the term 'cost,' as applied" with "such term, as applied", and in paragraph (6) and divisions (7)(A)(i), (7)(A)(ii), and (7)(A)(iv), by replacing "U.S.C.A." with "U.S.C.".

(24) Code Section 20-3-231, relating to legislative findings and purpose of Georgia Student Finance Commission, in subsections (a) and (b), by deleting the internal catchlines.

(25) Code Section 20-3-234, relating to functions and composition of board of commissioners, appointment, qualifications, and terms of commissioners, board officers, meetings, committees, compensation, and advisory councils, in subsections (a) through (h), by deleting the internal catchlines.

(26) Code Section 20-3-235, relating to commission officers, employees, and support services, bonds, and legal services, in paragraphs (1) through (5), by deleting the internal catchlines.

(27) Code Section 20-3-236, relating to powers and duties of commission, board of commissioners, and officers, confidentiality, and repayments and refunds, in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "they" with "it" and by replacing "them" with "the board of commissioners" and in paragraph (b)(2), by replacing "e-mail" with "email".

(28) Code Section 20-3-242, relating to web based counseling and resources for students, in paragraph (1), by replacing "web based" with "internet based" and in paragraph (2), by replacing "a web based" with "an internet based".

(29) Code Section 20-3-250.2, relating to definitions regarding nonpublic postsecondary educational institutions, in paragraph (11.1), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

(30) Code Section 20-3-250.3, relating to educational institutions exempted from application of part, in the undesignated text at the end of subparagraph (a)(13)(B), by replacing "however that" with "however, that" and in paragraph (a)(14), by replacing "associate" with "associate's".

(31) Code Section 20-3-250.6, relating to minimum standards for educational institutions, in paragraph (a)(4), by replacing "catalog" with "catalogue".

(32) Code Section 20-3-250.8, relating to application to operate or conduct postsecondary activities, in subsection (a), by replacing "catalog" with "catalogue" and by replacing "however, that" with "however, that," and in subsection (b), by replacing "catalogs," with "catalogues,".

(33) Code Section 20-3-311, relating to legislative findings and purposes of authority, in subsection (a), by deleting the internal catchline.

(34) Code Section 20-3-313, relating to authority created as successor to Georgia Higher Education Assistance Authority and abolishment of Georgia Higher Education Assistance Corporation, in the introductory language of subsection (c), by replacing "however:" with "however, that:", in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2), by replacing "That educational" with "Educational", and in paragraph (c)(3), by replacing "That all" with "All".

(35) Code Section 20-3-314, relating to functions, composition, organization, and conduct of affairs of board of directors, in subsection (a), by deleting the internal catchline, in the introductory language of subsection (b), by deleting the internal catchline and by replacing "however:" with "however, that:", in paragraph (b)(1), by replacing "That nothing" with "Nothing", in paragraph (b)(2), by replacing "That no" with "No", and in paragraph (b)(3), by replacing "That the" with "The".

(36) Code Section 20-3-316, relating to powers and duties of authority, employees' functions, servicing of educational loans, registration with Selective Service System, and confidentiality, in paragraph (b)(2), by replacing "e-mail" with "email".

(37) Code Section 20-3-329, relating to employees of commission transferred to authority, status of authority employees hired after July 1, 1996, status of transferred employees, and benefits of transferred employees not impaired, in subsection (c), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

(38) Code Section 20-3-373, relating to general loan fund, in the undesignated text at the end of subsection (a), by replacing "fund to make" with "fund provided for in subsection (a) of this Code section to make" and by redesignating such undesignated text as new subsection (b) and by redesignating current subsection (b) as new subsection (c).

(39) Code Section 20-3-374, relating to service cancelable loan fund and authorized types of service cancelable educational loans, in paragraphs (b)(1) through (b)(4), by deleting the internal catchlines.

(40) Code Section 20-3-386, relating to distribution of education loan repayment assistance and conditions, in subsection (d), by replacing "U.S.C.A." with "U.S.C.".

(41) Code Section 20-3-395, relating to definitions regarding direct loans to students on basis of need and merit, in subparagraphs (3)(A), (3)(B), and (3)(C), by replacing "associate" with "associate's" and in paragraph (6), by replacing "U.S.C.A." with "U.S.C.".

(42) Code Section 20-3-400.1, relating to definitions regarding graduate on time student loans, in paragraph (1) and subparagraphs (4)(A) and (4)(B), by replacing "associate" with "associate's".

(43) Code Section 20-3-405.1, relating to definitions regarding Education for Public Service Student Loan, in subparagraphs (4)(A) and (4)(B), by replacing "associate degrees" with "associate's degrees".

(44) Code Section 20-3-405.2, relating to eligibility, repayment period, maximum amount, application, and statement of requirements, in subsection (c), by replacing "associate degree," with "associate's degree,".

(45) Code Section 20-3-431, relating to "eligible student" defined, in the introductory language, by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(46) Code Section 20-3-441, relating to "eligible student" defined, in the introductory language, by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(47) Code Section 20-3-499, relating to selection of REACH scholars, in division (a)(1)(B)(i), by replacing "SNAP (Food Stamp)" with "Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)" and in division (a)(1)(B)(ii), by replacing "TANF" with "Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)".

(48) Code Section 20-3-519, relating to definitions regarding HOPE scholarships and grants, in the undesignated text at the end of subparagraph (6)(A), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that," and in paragraph (25), by replacing "U.S.C.A." with "U.S.C.".

(49) Code Section 20-3-519.2, relating to eligibility requirements for a HOPE scholarship and award amount, in the introductory language of subsection (a) and in the introductory language of subsection (b), by replacing "associate" with "associate's" and in paragraph (d)(3), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that," each time the phrase appears.

(50) Code Section 20-3-519.5, relating to eligibility requirements for a HOPE grant and award amount, in the introductory language of subsection (a.1) and the undesignated text at the end of subsection (a.1), by replacing "associate degree" with "associate's degree".

(51) Code Section 20-3-564, relating to authorization to dispose of property, by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

(52) Code Section 20-3-633, relating to creation, board of directors, and assignment to Department of Administrative Services, in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "Chancellor" with "chancellor".

(53) Code Section 20-3-642, relating to records not open to public inspection and duration, in paragraph (a)(2), by replacing "clearing house" with "clearing-house".

(54) Article 13 of Chapter 3, relating to compensation of intercollegiate athletes, by repealing said article.

(55) Code Section 20-4-1, relating to acceptance of federal act regarding vocational education, by replacing "(20 U.S.C.A. Section 11, et seq.; c. 114, Section 1, 39 Stat. 929)," with "(20 U.S.C. Section 11, et seq.; 39 Stat. 929),".

(56) Code Section 20-4-4, relating to employing teachers under federal act, by replacing "(20 U.S.C.A. Section 11, et seq.; c. 114, Section 1, 39 Stat. 929)," with "(20 U.S.C. Section 11, et seq.; 39 Stat. 929),".

(57) Code Section 20-4-10, relating to the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia established, members, and officers, in subsection (a), by replacing "however, in" with "provided, however, that, in".

(58) Code Section 20-4-11, relating to powers of the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia, at the end of division (3)(C)(ii), by replacing the period with a semicolon.

(59) Code Section 20-4-11.1, relating to public forums designated, "free speech zones" prohibited, allowed restrictions, protected expressive activity, construction, required materials, and annual reporting, in paragraph (a)(5), by replacing "This term" with "Such term".

(60) Code Section 20-4-15, relating to establishment of adult literacy programs, eligibility, and office of adult literacy, in the introductory language of subsection (d), by replacing "who:" with "who are:", in paragraph (d)(1), by replacing "Are high" with "High", and in paragraph (d)(2), by replacing "Are at" with "At".

(61) Code Section 20-4-17, relating to agencies to receive federal funds and transfer of personnel to Department of Technical and Adult Education, now known as Technical College System of Georgia, in subsection (a), by replacing "further," with "further, that".

(62) Code Section 20-4-41, relating to extent and nature of training to be offered, by replacing "however, no" with "however, that no".

(63) Article 5 of Chapter 4, relating to the Georgia Joint Defense Commission, by replacing "commissioner of the Department of Economic Development" with "commissioner of economic development" each time the phrase appears in:

(A) Code Section 20-4-120, relating to the creation of commission and membership;

(B) Code Section 20-4-131, relating to administration of grant program and purpose;

(C) Code Section 20-4-132, relating to awarding of grants;

(D) Code Section 20-4-133, relating to grant application requirements; and

(E) Code Section 20-4-134, relating to rules and regulations.

(64) Code Section 20-4-141, relating to establishment of pilot program, awarding of high school diploma to successful participants, skills and knowledge, eligibility for participation, and regulation, in paragraph (a)(1) and subparagraph (f)(3)(A), by replacing "associate degree" with "associate's degree" and in divisions (e)(4)(A)(iii) and (e)(4)(B)(ii), by replacing "U.S.C.A." with "U.S.C." each time the term appears.

(65) Code Section 20-4-151, relating to purpose, employer partnerships, required information, contracts, awards, and limitations, in paragraph (d)(1), by replacing "$10,000.00" with "Ten thousand dollars", in paragraph (d)(2), by replacing "$5,000.00" with "Five thousand dollars", and in paragraph (e)(2), by deleting "the" preceding "Fiscal Year 2025".

(66) Code Section 20-5-2, relating to powers and duties of the board of regents and director of University of Georgia Libraries, abolition of State Library Commission and transfer of functions, reports of state publications, and electronic submission, in subsection (e), by replacing "For purposes of this article, 'public documents' shall mean" with "As used in this Code section, the term 'public documents' means" and in subsection (k), by replacing "Division of Archives and History," with "Division of Archives and History of the University System of Georgia,".

(67) Code Section 20-5-5, relating to internet safety policies in public libraries, in paragraphs (a)(1) and (h)(1), by replacing "Internet" with "internet".

(68) Code Section 20-8-1, relating to definitions regarding campus policemen, in paragraph (1), by replacing "The term 'campus'" with "Such term".

(69) Code Section 20-12-1, relating to definitions regarding marine resources extension centers and institute for oceanographic studies, in paragraph (3), by deleting "as defined in paragraph (2) of this Code section".

(70) Code Section 20-14-96, relating to accrediting agencies, standards, applicability, and construction, in paragraph (e)(2), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

(71) Code Section 20-17-2, relating to provisions of The Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, in Section A of Article II and in Section A(1) of Article III, by replacing "10 U.S.C. Sections 1209 and 1211" with "10 U.S.C. Chapters 1209 and 1211".

SECTION 21.

Title 21 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to elections, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 21-2-217, relating to rules for determining residence, by revising subparagraph (a)(2)(B) and subsection (b) as follows:

"(B) If a person returns to his or her original or new residence after voting or registering to vote in a different or separate jurisdiction, such person shall update their his or her voter registration with their his or her current residency jurisdiction in order to be deemed a valid registered elector and resident of such jurisdiction for voting purposes; and"

"(b) In determining a voter's qualification to register and vote, the registrars to whom such application is made shall consider, in addition to the applicant's expressed intent, any relevant circumstances determining the applicant's residence. The registrars taking such registration may consider the applicant's financial independence,; business pursuits,; employment,; income sources,; residence for income tax purposes,; age,; marital status,; residence of parents, spouse, and children, if any,; leaseholds,; sites of personal and real property owned by the applicant,; motor vehicle and other personal property registration,; National Change of Address program information sponsored by the United States Postal Service,; and other such factors that the registrars may reasonably deem necessary to determine the qualification of an applicant to vote in a primary or election. The decision of the registrars to whom such application is made shall be presumptive evidence of a person's residence for voting purposes."

SECTION 22.

Reserved.

SECTION 23.

Reserved.

SECTION 24.

Reserved.

SECTION 25.

Reserved.

SECTION 26.

Title 26 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to food, drugs, and cosmetics, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 26-4-116.1, relating to licensed health practitioners authorized to prescribe auto-injectable epinephrine for schools and pharmacists authorized to fill prescriptions, in subsection (b), by replacing "Code Section 31-1-14" with "Code Section 31-1-15".

SECTION 27.

Reserved.

SECTION 28.

Reserved.

SECTION 29.

Title 29 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to guardian and ward, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 29-5-3, relating to order of preference in selecting conservator, nomination of individual to serve as conservator, and requirements of nomination, in paragraph (b)(4), by replacing "(c)" with "(d)".

SECTION 30.

Reserved.

SECTION 31.

Title 31 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to health, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 31-1-6, relating to reuse of heart pacemakers, in subsection (b), by deleting ", as defined in subsection (a) of this Code section,".

(2) Code Section 31-1-8, relating to notice of proposed special facility, in the introductory language of subsection (a), by replacing "For the purposes of" with "As used in", in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "drug users as defined in paragraph (11) of" with "drug abusers as defined in", and in paragraph (a)(2), by replacing "provided such" with "provided that such".

(3) Code Section 31-1-9, relating to breast-feeding of baby, by replacing "breast-feeding" with "breastfeeding" and by replacing "breast-feed" with "breastfeed".

(4) Code Section 31-1-19, relating to prohibition on expenditure or use of state resources to advocate for or intend to influence citizens in support of Medicaid expansion under the federal Affordable Care Act, in subsection (a), by replacing "Public Law" with "P.L.".

(5) Code Section 31-1-24, relating to organ transplant protections for individuals with disabilities and civil relief for violations, in division (a)(2)(C)(ii), by inserting a comma following "Section 1320d" and by replacing "such Act" with "such act".

(6) Code Section 31-2-4, relating to department's powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities, divisions, directors, and contracts for health benefits, in subparagraph (a)(1)(A), by replacing "State of Georgia, et al. v. Philip Morris, Inc., et al.," with "State of Georgia, et al. v. Philip Morris, Inc., et al.," and in the introductory language of subparagraph (d)(10)(B) and in subparagraph (d)(11)(B), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(7) Code Section 31-2-8, relating to actions against certain applicants or licensees, in subsection (a), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in", by replacing "shall be used to refer to" with "means", and by replacing "provisions of the law" with "provisions of law" and in subparagraph (c)(6)(B), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(8) Code Section 31-2-17, which is repealed, by designating said Code section as reserved.

(9) Code Section 31-2-18, relating to website reporting on state health plans, in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "Medical" with "The medical", in paragraph (a)(2), by replacing "PeachCare" with "The PeachCare", in the introductory language of subsection (b), by replacing "department website" with "department's website", and in paragraph (b)(3), by replacing "non-emergent" with "nonemergent".

(10) Code Section 31-2A-12, relating to the Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health and composition, membership, duties, and responsibilities, in subsection (c), by replacing "council" with "commission", in paragraph (e)(5), by inserting a comma following "chapter", and in subsection (h), by inserting "and reserved" following "repealed".

(11) Code Section 31-2A-16, relating to Maternal Mortality Review Committee established, in paragraph (d)(1), by replacing "Chapter 7 of Title 31," with "Chapter 7 of this title,".

(12) Code Section 31-5-3, relating to appeals, in paragraph (a)(2), by replacing "however," with "however, that,".

(13) Code Section 31-6-21.1, relating to procedures for rule making by Department of Community Health, in subsection (h), by replacing "For purposes of this Code section, 'rules' shall mean" with "As used in this Code section, the term 'rules' means".

(14) Code Section 31-6-40, relating to certificate of need required for new institutional health services and exemption, in subsection (d), by replacing "however, all" with "however, that all".

(15) Code Section 31-6-42, relating to qualifications for issuance of certificate, in the undesignated text at the end of subsection (c), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(16) Code Section 31-6-43, relating to acceptance or rejection of application for certificate, in subsection (k), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(17) Code Section 31-6-44.1, relating to judicial review, in subsection (c), by replacing "however," with "however, that".

(18) Code Section 31-6-45.2, relating to participation as Medicaid provider requirement, termination by health care facility of participation as provider of medical assistance, and monetary penalty, in the introductory language of paragraph (b)(3), by replacing "For purposes of this Code section, 'good cause' shall mean:" with "As used in this Code section, the term 'good cause' means:".

(19) Code Section 31-6-70, relating to reports to the department by certain health care facilities and all ambulatory surgical centers and imaging centers and public availability, in the introductory language of paragraph (b)(8), by replacing "person" with "persons" and in subsection (g), by replacing "department website" with "department's website".

(20) Code Section 31-7-1, relating to definitions regarding regulation and construction of hospitals other health care facilities, in the undesignated text at the end of paragraph (4), by replacing "The term 'institution'" with "Such term" and in subparagraph (8)(B), by inserting "that" following "provided".

(21) Code Section 31-7-2.2, relating to determination that patients or residents in an institution, community living arrangement, or treatment program are in danger, relocation of patients or residents, and suspension of admissions, in the introductory language of paragraph (c)(1), by replacing "or program" with "or a program".

(22) Code Section 31-7-7, relating to refusal or revocation by public hospital of staff privileges, in subsection (a), by replacing "however," with "however, that,".

(23) Code Section 31-7-12, relating to personal care homes, licensure and registration, inspection by local boards, fees, investigations, waiver, variance, or exemption, staffing, training, and financial stability requirements, and certified medication aides, in paragraph (a)(2), by replacing "This term" with "Such term" and by deleting "of subsection (b)".

(24) Code Section 31-7-12.2, relating to regulation and licensing of assisted living communities, legislative intent, definitions, procedures, and requirements for medication aides, in subsection (e), by replacing "Office" with "office".

(25) Code Section 31-7-12.8, relating to certification as nurse aide, employer sponsored training and competency examination programs, and provisional practice by military medical personnel, in subsection (d), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(26) Code Section 31-7-55, relating to administration of state funds, by inserting "federal" preceding "Public Health Service Act".

(27) Code Section 31-7-56, relating to adherence to federal law and regulations, by inserting "federal" preceding "Public Health Service Act".

(28) Code Section 31-7-92, relating to filing of audits, by deleting the comma following "municipality".

(29) Code Section 31-7-133, relating to confidentiality of review organization's records, in subsection (a) and paragraph (b)(2), by replacing "however, such" with "however, that such".

(30) Code Section 31-7-407.1, relating to report of findings, by replacing "the time for issuing said" with "that the time for issuing such".

(31) Code Section 31-8-3, relating to disbursement of state funds to counties, by replacing "however, the" with "however, that the".

(32) Code Section 31-8-9.1, relating to eligibility to receive tax credits, obligations of rural hospitals after receipt of funds, and posting information on website, in subparagraph (a)(3)(H), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(33) Code Section 31-8-82, relating to persons required to report abuse or exploitation, time for making report, contents of report, records, and privileged communications, in paragraph (a)(9), by replacing "Title 31" with "this title".

(34) Code Section 31-8-171, relating to definitions regarding quality assessment fees on care management organizations, in paragraph (1), by deleting "of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated" and by replacing "Sec." with "Section".

(35) Code Section 31-8-307, relating to referrals to the drug repository program, in the introductory language of subsection (a), by inserting a comma following "Corrections" and in paragraph (a)(3), by inserting a comma following "limited to".

(36) Code Section 31-9-2, relating to persons authorized to consent to surgical or medical treatment, in paragraph (a)(7), by replacing "For purposes of this paragraph," with "As used in this paragraph, the term" and in subsection (c), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(37) Code Section 31-9-6.1, relating to disclosure of certain information to persons undergoing certain surgical or diagnostic procedures, failure to comply, exceptions, and regulations establishing standards for implementation, in paragraph (e)(4), by inserting a comma following "however, that".

(38) Code Section 31-9A-2, relating to definitions regarding woman's right to know, in paragraph (1), by replacing "The term 'abortion'" with "Such term" each time the phrase appears, in paragraph (6), by replacing "Internet" with "internet", and in paragraph (7), by replacing "homo sapiens" with "Homo sapiens".

(39) Code Section 31-9A-3, relating to voluntary and informed consent to abortion and availability of ultrasound, in subparagraph (2)(D), by replacing "they shall" with "such materials shall".

(40) Code Section 31-9B-2, relating to requirement to determine presence of detectable human heartbeat of unborn child, in subsection (b), by inserting a comma following "Code Section 43-34-8".

(41) Code Section 31-10-14, relating to issuance of new certificate of birth following adoption and legitimation or paternity determination, in subsection (b), by replacing "step-parent" with "stepparent".

(42) Code Section 31-11-52, relating to certification and recertification of, and training for, paramedics and cardiac technicians, qualifications by felons, and provisional practice by military medical personnel, in subsection (e), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(43) Code Section 31-11-53, relating to services which may be rendered by certified emergency medical technicians and trainees and provisional practice by military medical personnel, in subsection (d), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(44) Code Section 31-11-82, relating to evaluation of person with emergency condition, initiation of intervention without prospective authorization, and insurer may not deny payment after prospective authorization given, in subsection (a), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(45) Code Section 31-12-2, relating to reporting certain diseases and neonatal abstinence syndrome, confidentiality, reporting required of pharmacists, immunity from liability as to information supplied, and notification of potential bioterrorism, in subsection (a), by replacing "however," with "however, that" and in paragraph (a.1)(2), by replacing "diagnosis" with "diagnoses".

(46) Code Section 31-12-3.1, relating to vaccination registry and reporting requirements, maintenance, and use of information, in the undesignated text at the end of subsection (b), by replacing "United States" with "federal".

(47) Code Section 31-12-4.1, relating to smallpox vaccination and treatment program, in paragraph (b)(2), by replacing "workers," with "worker," and by replacing "said hospital" with "such hospital," and in the undesignated text at the end of subsection (b), by replacing "said" with "such".

(48) Code Section 31-12-13, relating to definitions concerning bloodborne pathogens, standards, and funds for research and development, in the introductory language of subsection (a), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(49) Code Section 31-13-6, relating to bonding licensees, in subsection (a), by replacing "bond not less" with "bond of not less".

(50) Code Section 31-14-14, relating to immunity from liability, by replacing "Title 31," with "this title,".

(51) Code Section 31-17-4.2, relating to HIV and syphilis pregnancy screening, in paragraph (b)(2), by replacing "28–32" with "28 to 32".

(52) Code Section 31-20-2, relating to performance of sterilization procedure upon request, by replacing "that prior to or at the time of such request" with "that, prior to or at the time of such request,".

(53) Code Section 31-21-3, relating to death of person with infectious or communicable disease, required reporting procedures, confidentiality, disclosure, and penalties, in the introductory language of subsection (a), by replacing "For the purposes of" with "As used in" and in paragraph (a)(3), by replacing "or" with "and".

(54) Code Section 31-21-6, relating to notification of law enforcement agency upon disturbance, destruction, or debasement of human remains, in the introductory language of subsection (b), by replacing "ancestors of or" with "ancestors of".

(55) Code Section 31-21-7, relating to preneed contracts and revisions, affidavit on disposition of remains, role of probate court, warrant as to truthfulness, and liability of funeral home, in paragraph (c)(4), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in".

(56) Code Section 31-21-20, relating to Board for the Distribution of Cadavers, by replacing "For the purposes of" with "As used in".

(57) Code Section 31-21-21, relating to delivery to board of certain unclaimed bodies, in subsection (a), by deleting "for distribution".

(58) Code Section 31-21-23, relating to distribution of bodies by board, by deleting "for distribution" and by deleting "above-specified".

(59) Code Section 31-21-24, relating to transportation of bodies, by deleting "for distribution" and by deleting "above".

(60) Code Section 31-21-26, relating to payment of expenses, by deleting "for distribution".

(61) Code Section 31-33-2, relating to furnishing copy of records to patient, provider, or other authorized person, in paragraph (b)(1), by replacing "42 U.S.C. Section 1320d-2, et seq.," with "P.L. 104-191,".

(62) Code Section 31-33-7, relating to furnishing copies of psychological or psychiatric evaluation to law enforcement officer upon request, in subsection (c), by inserting a comma following "information".

(63) Code Section 31-33-8, relating to electronic records and application to psychiatric, psychological, or other mental health records, in subsection (g), by inserting a comma following "(d)".

(64) Code Section 31-34-4, relating to loan applicant qualifications and rules and regulations, in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "Education or the American Osteopathic Association" with "Education, the American Osteopathic Association,", in paragraph (c)(1), by replacing "consider among other criteria for granting loans under the provisions of this article" with "consider, among other criteria for granting loans under the provisions of this article,", and in paragraph (c)(2), by replacing "consider among other criteria for granting loans under the provisions of this article" with "consider, among other criteria for granting loans under the provisions of this article," and by replacing "future census state" with "future such census".

(65) Code Section 31-34-5, relating to service cancelable loan, amount, repayment, and determination of underserved rural areas, in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "that for applicants that" with "that, for applicants who".

(66) Code Section 31-34-6, relating to contract between applicant and state agreeing to terms and conditions of loan, breach of contract, and service cancelable contracts, in paragraph (b)(2), by replacing "article who breaches" with "article that breaches".

(67) Code Section 31-35-1, relating to legislative findings, by replacing "the United States Centers" with "the federal Centers".

(68) Code Section 31-36B-5, relating to healthcare decision making by lay caregiver, no delay in care, and responsibilities, in subsection (e), by replacing "Center for Medicare" with "federal Centers for Medicare".

(69) Code Section 31-41-12, relating to definitions regarding childhood lead exposure control, in paragraph (2), by replacing "age including" with "age, including" and in paragraph (7), by replacing "14 U.S.C. Code Section 185(b)(15)" with "P.L. 102-550,".

(70) Code Section 31-52-3, relating to definitions regarding the "Georgia Right to Try Act," in subparagraph (5)(A), by replacing "Title 31" with "this title".

(71) Code Section 31-53-3, relating to establishment of Office of Health Strategy and Coordination and powers and duties, in paragraph (b)(16), by inserting "and" preceding "practice" and by replacing "outcome" with "outcomes" and in paragraph (b)(23), by replacing "Centralizing" with "Centralize".

(72) Code Section 31-53-47, relating to submission of claims and personal identification data not public record, in subsection (b), by deleting the comma following "paid" and by replacing "Data Submission Guide" with "data submission guide" and in subsection (d), by replacing "claim" with "claims".

(73) Code Section 31-53-50, relating to penalties for noncompliance, in subsection (b), by deleting the comma following "31-53-51".

(74) Code Section 31-54-2, relating to law enforcement powers, required training, and carrying of weapon, in subsection (a), by inserting a comma following "however, that" and "further, that" and in subsection (b), by replacing "must" with "shall".

(75) The following Code sections, by inserting "federal" preceding "Centers for Disease Control and Prevention" each time the term appears:

(A) Code Section 31-7-18, relating to vaccinations for influenza and pneumococcal disease for certain discharged patients, vaccinations or other measures for health care workers and other employees in hospitals, immunity from liability, and standing orders;

(B) Code Section 31-7-19, relating to nursing homes to annually offer influenza vaccinations to health care workers and other employees and immunity from liability;

(C) Code Section 31-7-21, relating to provision of influenza education information to assisted living community residents;

(D) Code Section 31-12-3.2, relating to meningococcal disease, vaccinations, and disclosures;

(E) Code Section 31-22-9.2, relating to HIV tests and report of positive results, notification, counseling, violations, exception for insurance coverage, and exposure of health care provider;

(F) Code Section 31-45A-3, relating to development of model aquatic safety plan; and

(G) Code Section 31-49-3, relating to duties and responsibilities of the Georgia Council on Lupus Education and Awareness.

SECTION 32.

Reserved.

SECTION 33.

Title 33 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to insurance, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 33-64-7, relating to the Commissioner of Insurance's authority over rules and regulations, in subsection (c), by replacing "deidentified" with "de-identified".

(2) Code Section 33-66-6, relating to data analysis and initial report, in subsection (b), by replacing "this Code Section" with "this Code section" and in subsection (c), by replacing "Governor's Office," with "Governor's office,".

SECTION 34.

Title 34 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to labor and industrial relations, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 34-8-167, relating to collection of delinquent contribution payments generally, in subsection (b), by replacing "Code Sections 48-2-55 and 48-3-1" with "Code Section 48-2-55".

SECTION 35.

Title 35 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to law enforcement officers and agencies, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 35-1-8, relating to acquisition, collection, classification, and preservation of information assisting in identifying deceased persons and locating missing persons, in paragraph (b)(1), by replacing "For purposes of this subsection," with "As used in this subsection, the term".

(2) Code Section 35-1-19, relating to disclosure of arrest booking photographs prohibited, in subsection (b), by replacing "State Sexual Offender Registry," with "state sexual offender registry,".

(3) Code Section 35-2-15, relating to off-duty use of motor vehicles and other equipment by certain law enforcement officers, conditions for use, and rules and regulations, in paragraph (a)(3), by replacing "Board of Public Safety." with "board.".

(4) Code Section 35-2-49, relating to provision of uniforms and equipment to sworn members of the Department of Public Safety and radio operators and retention of weapons and badges upon retirement, by replacing "Department of Public Safety" with "department" each time the term appears and by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

(5) Code Section 35-2-51, relating to storeroom for excess clothing, equipment, and other articles and disposition of old and worn equipment, in subsection (b), by replacing "must" with "shall" and by replacing "Department of Public Safety" with "department".

(6) Code Section 35-2-52, relating to clothing allowance for members of Uniform Division assigned permanently to personal security or special duty assignments, by replacing "Board of Public Safety," with "board,".

(7) Code Section 35-2-57, relating to use of retired unmarked pursuit cars for training, by replacing "Georgia State Patrol" with "Uniform Division" and by deleting "of public safety" following "commissioner".

(8) Code Section 35-2-81, relating to definitions regarding Department of Public Safety nomenclature, in paragraph (1), by replacing "Department of Public Safety," with "department,", and by deleting paragraphs (2) and (3) and by redesignating paragraphs (4) through (6) as paragraphs (2) through (4), respectively.

(9) Code Section 35-2-84, relating to procedure for seeking permission to use department nomenclature or symbols, by replacing "Board of Public Safety." with "board.".

(10) Code Section 35-2-120, relating to definitions regarding the Capitol Police Division, by deleting paragraphs (2) and (3) and by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (2).

(11) Code Section 35-3-5, relating to director and creation, appointment and removal, and powers and duties, in subsection (b), by replacing "Board of Public Safety" with "board".

(12) Code Section 35-3-7, relating to agreements by director and commissioner for provision of services and material, by deleting "of public safety" following "commissioner" and by replacing "Board of Public Safety," with "board,".

(13) Code Section 35-3-31, relating to establishment of center, staff and equipment generally, and State Personnel Board status of personnel, in subsection (a), by replacing "Georgia Bureau of Investigation," with "bureau," and in subsection (c), by replacing "Department of Public Safety," with "department,".

(14) Code Section 35-3-63, relating to creation of task force and purposes, by replacing "Georgia Bureau of Investigation" with "bureau" each time the term appears and by replacing "This Antiterrorism Task Force" with "The task force".

(15) Code Section 35-3-104, relating to procedures for seeking permission to use bureau nomenclature or symbols, by replacing "Board of Public Safety." with "board.".

(16) Code Section 35-3-150, relating to definitions regarding the Division of Forensic Sciences, by revising said Code section as follows:

"35-3-150.

As used in this article, the term:

(1) 'Board' means the Board of Public Safety.

(2)(1) 'Crime lab' or 'state crime lab' means the Division of Forensic Sciences of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation bureau.

(3) 'Director' means the director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. (4)(2) 'Division' means the Division of Forensic Sciences of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation bureau.

(5)(3) 'Division director' means the director of the Division of Forensic Sciences of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation bureau.

(6)(4) 'Independent test' means a forensic analysis of evidence in the custody and possession of the state or any political subdivision or authority thereof conducted at the request of or on behalf of any person other than a prosecuting attorney, law enforcement officer, or other authorized agent of the state or which are ordered conducted by a court at the request of an accused.

(7)(5) 'Regional medical examiner' shall have the same meaning as defined in paragraph (13) of set forth in Code Section 45-16-21. (8)(6) 'Rule' or 'rules' means a rule or regulation adopted pursuant to Chapter 13 of Title 50, the 'Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.'"

(17) Code Section 35-3-204, relating to membership in Georgia Information Sharing and Analysis Center and availability of analysts, in subsection (a), by deleting "of public safety" following "commissioner".

(18) Code Section 35-5-2, relating to board authorized to establish, operate, and maintain center and powers of board as to selection and compensation of administrator, in the introductory language of subsection (a), by replacing "Board of Public Safety" with "board" and in subsections (b) and (c), by replacing "center" with "Georgia Public Safety Training Center".

(19) Code Section 35-5-3, relating to assignment to Department of Public Safety for administrative purposes and authorization to solicit and accept gifts, grants, donations, property, and services, in subsection (a), by replacing "center" with "Georgia Public Safety Training Center" and by replacing "Department of Public Safety" with "department".

(20) Code Section 35-5-4, relating to powers and duties of administrator of Georgia Public Safety Training Center, by replacing "center" with "Georgia Public Safety Training Center" each time the term appears.

(21) Code Section 35-5-5, relating to center available for use by certain personnel, fees, enrollment, authorization for expenditure of funds, and powers and duties, in subsections (a), (b), and (c), by replacing "center" with "Georgia Public Safety Training Center" each time the term appears.

(22) Code Section 35-5-7, relating to law enforcement unit, in subsection (a), by replacing "center," with "Georgia Public Safety Training Center,".

(23) Code Section 35-6A-3, relating to membership, vacancies, and membership not bar to holding public office, in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "Board of Public Safety," with "board," and by replacing "the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities," with "behavioral health and developmental disabilities,".

(24) Code Section 35-6A-4, relating to election of chairperson and vice chairperson, meetings, minutes and records, and rules, in paragraph (2), by replacing "chairman" with "chairperson" and in paragraph (3), by inserting "and" at the end.

(25) Code Section 35-6A-10, relating to incentives for using federal Department of Homeland Security's Secure Communities initiative and obligations of council, in paragraphs (b)(3) and (b)(4), by replacing "Internet website;" with "internet website;".

(26) Code Section 35-6A-11, relating to juvenile justice advisory board and membership, in paragraph (a)(8), by deleting "and" at the end and in subsection (d), by replacing "must" with "shall".

(27) Code Section 35-6A-13, which is repealed, by designating said Code section as reserved.

(28) Code Section 35-6A-14, which is repealed, by designating said Code section as reserved.

(29) Code Section 35-6A-15, relating to grant program for transportation costs to emergency treatment facilities, by replacing "the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council" with "the council".

(30) Code Section 35-6A-17, relating to the Georgia Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Advisory Board, membership, and termination, in paragraph (a)(4), by replacing "Office of the Attorney General;" with "office of the Attorney General;".

(31) Code Section 35-8-3, relating to the establishment of Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council, membership, organization, and administrative assignment to Department of Public Safety, in paragraph (b)(1), by deleting "of public safety" following "commissioner" and in subsection (e), by replacing "the Department of Public Safety" with "the department".

(32) Code Section 35-8-7.4, relating to bias motivated intimidation of first responders and prosecution and penalty, in subsection (a), by replacing the comma with a semicolon following "fire department" and by replacing the comma with a semicolon following "Code Section 35-8-2".

(33) Code Section 35-8-8, relating to requirements for appointment or certification of persons as peace officers and preemployment attendance at basic training course and "employment related information" defined, in paragraph (c)(1), by replacing "For purposes of this subsection," with "As used in this subsection,".

(34) Code Section 35-8-10, relating to applicability and effect of certification requirements generally and requirements as to exempt persons, in subsection (b), by replacing "Department of Public Safety," with "department," and by replacing "must" with "shall".

(35) Code Section 35-8-13.1, relating to training and certification of municipal probation officers, in subsection (e), by replacing "The term 'municipal probation officer' as used in this Code section means" with "As used in this Code section, the term 'municipal probation officer' means", by replacing "the term 'municipal probation officer'" with "such term", and by replacing "the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council" with "the council" and in subsection (f), by replacing "the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council" with "the council".

(36) Code Section 35-8-20, relating to training requirements for police chiefs, department heads, and wardens, effect of failure to fulfill training requirement, and waiver of requirements, in subsections (b) and (e), by replacing "the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council" with "the council".

(37) Code Section 35-8-20.1, relating to training for police chiefs and department heads appointed after June 30, 1999, and waivers, in subsections (b) and (h), by replacing "the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council" with "the council".

(38) Code Section 35-8-21, relating to training requirements for peace officers, waiver, exemption for retired peace officers, and confirmation of training, in subsection (a), by replacing "the Department of Public Safety" with "the department" and by deleting "of public safety" following "commissioner" and in subsections (b) and (e), by replacing "the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council" with "the council".

(39) Code Section 35-8-23, relating to basic training course for communications officers, certification requirements, duties of council, and rules and regulations, in subsection (d), by replacing "(TDD's)" with "(TDDs)".

(40) Code Section 35-8-24, relating to training requirements for jail officers and juvenile correctional officers, in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) and subsection (c), by replacing "the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council" with "the council".

(41) Code Section 35-8-26, relating to TASER and electronic control weapons, requirements for use, establishment of policies, and training, in subsection (c), by replacing "the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council" with "the council".

(42) The following Code sections, by replacing "Department of Public Safety" with "department" each time the term appears:

(A) Code Section 35-1-22, relating to prohibition on law enforcement retaining license plate data obtained from automated license plate recognition systems, limited use of data, and public disclosure prohibited;

(B) Code Section 35-2-1, relating to creation of Board of Public Safety, composition, and appointment and terms of office of members;

(C) Code Section 35-2-31, relating to composition;

(D) Code Section 35-2-36.1, relating to Auxiliary Service of the Uniform Division, appointment of members, salary, authority and powers, equipment, and eligibility;

(E) Code Section 35-2-41.1, relating to donation or conveyance of property, equipment, or services to the department and procedure;

(F) Code Section 35-2-44, relating to enlistment, examination, preliminary training, subsequent instruction, and rules and regulations for discipline and conduct of recruits and troopers of Uniform Division;

(G) Code Section 35-2-45, relating to promotions of personnel in Uniform Division;

(H) Code Section 35-2-49.1, relating to retention of badge and weapon by disabled law enforcement officer;

(I) Code Section 35-2-50, relating to purchasing of uniforms, supplies, and equipment;

(J) Code Section 35-2-53, relating to members of Uniform Division to receive no costs or emoluments, exception for rewards, and payment and distribution of fines and costs;

(K) Code Section 35-2-74, relating to Governor to prescribe coverage by State Personnel Board;

(L) Code Section 35-2-102, relating to weight inspector positions, training, powers and responsibilities, and presence of certified peace officer;

(M) Code Section 35-2-140, relating to transfer of certain personnel, aircraft, and other assets from the Georgia Aviation Authority to the department;

(N) Code Section 35-2-160, relating to definitions regarding Office of Public Safety Support;

(O) Code Section 35-2-161, relating to Office of Public Safety Support established;

(P) Code Section 35-2-163, relating to peer counseling and critical incident support services, certification, and employment of necessary staff;

(Q) Code Section 35-3-4, relating to powers and duties of bureau generally;

(R) Code Section 35-4-3, relating to academy assigned to department for administrative purposes; and

(S) Code Section 35-8-2, relating to definitions regarding employment and training of peace officers.

(43) The following Code sections, by replacing "Georgia Bureau of Investigation" with "bureau" each time the term appears:

(A) Code Section 35-3-3, relating to divisions of bureau;

(B) Code Section 35-3-33, relating to powers and duties of the Georgia Crime Information Center generally;

(C) Code Section 35-3-34, relating to disclosure and dissemination of criminal records to private persons and businesses, resulting responsibility and liability of issuing center, and provision of certain information to the FBI in conjunction with the National Instant Criminal Background Check System;

(D) Code Section 35-3-80, relating to definitions regarding the Missing Children Information Center;

(E) Code Section 35-3-81, relating to establishment, development, maintenance, and operation of center and staff;

(F) Code Section 35-3-84, relating to sending information to center;

(G) Code Section 35-3-151, relating to responsibilities of the Division of Forensic Sciences of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation;

(H) Code Section 35-3-152, relating to appointment, powers, and responsibilities of division director;

(I) Code Section 35-3-160, relating to DNA analysis in felony convictions and certain felony charges and performance of tests; and

(J) Code Section 35-3-201, relating to the Georgia Information Sharing and Analysis Center established and purpose.

SECTION 36.

Title 36 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to local government, is amended in:

(1) Code Section 36-1-20, relating to ordinances for governing and policing of unincorporated areas of county, in subsection (b), by inserting a comma following "however, that" and by inserting a comma following "Clean Water Act".

(2) Code Section 36-5-28, relating to members of county governing authority to receive compensation increase when classified service employees receive increase, calculation, and effective date, by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

(3) Code Section 36-9-3, relating to sale or disposition of county real property generally, right of certain counties to make private sale, and right of county to negotiate and consummate private sales of recreational set-asides, in division (a)(2)(B)(iv), by replacing "posts:" with "posts", in subparagraph (a)(3)(D), by replacing "however, that" with "however, 1000 that,", and in subparagraph (g)(3)(B), by replacing "however," with "however, that". 1001 (4) Code Section 36-17-21, relating to allocation of funds, grant of tax credit to homesteads 1002 as prerequisite to receipt of funds, and use of surplus funds, in subsection (a), by replacing 1003 "For purposes of" with "As used in".

1004 (5) Code Section 36-32-2, relating to appointment of judges, in paragraph (a)(2), by 1005 replacing "provided such" with "provided that such".

1006 (6) Code Section 36-32-2.1, relating to removal of judges, in the introductory language of 1007 paragraph (b)(3), by replacing "alleged" with "alleges" and in subparagraph (b)(3)(D), by 1008 deleting "of subsection (c)".

1009 (7) Code Section 36-32-13, relating to municipal court clerks and role of Municipal Courts 1010 Training Council, in the introductory language of subsection (a), by replacing "For purposes 1011 of" with "As used in".

1012 (8) Code Section 36-34-5, relating to acquisition and construction of water and sewage 1013 systems, in subsection (b), by replacing "subsection (c)" with "subsection (d)". 1014 (9) Code Section 36-36-4, relating to creation of unincorporated islands prohibited and 1015 authorization to provide services or functions, in subsection (b), by replacing "For purposes 1016 of this subsection, 'unincorporated island' shall have the same meaning as contained in 1017 paragraph (3) of Code Section 36-36-90." with "As used in this subsection, the term 1018 'unincorporated island' shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 36-36-90.". 1019 (10) Code Section 36-36-11, relating to effect of objection to land use following rezoning 1020 and minimum procedures for addressing issues, in subsection (a), by replacing "however, 1021 that" with "however, that,".

1022 (11) Code Section 36-36-16, relating to procedures for annexation and referendum, in 1023 subsection (b), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1024 (12) Code Section 36-36-112, relating to prohibition on a change in zoning or land use, by 1025 replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

1026 (13) Code Section 36-36-115, relating to meetings of arbitration panel, duties, findings and 1027 recommendations, and compensation, in paragraph (a)(4), by replacing "however, that" with 1028 "however, that,".

1029 (14) Code Section 36-37-6, relating to disposition of municipal property generally, in 1030 division (a)(2)(B)(iv), by replacing "posts:" with "posts" and in subsection (c), by replacing 1031 "however, that" with "however, that,".

1032 (15) Code Section 36-41-3, relating to definitions regarding urban residential finance 1033 authorities for large municipalities, in paragraph (14), by replacing "The term 'real property'" 1034 with "Such term", in paragraph (16), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that," and 1035 by replacing "The term 'residential housing'" with "Such term", and in paragraph (17), by 1036 replacing "The term 'security interest'" with "Such term". 1037 (16) Code Section 36-45-20, relating to training course regarding clerk of the governing 1038 authority of a municipality, in subsection (a), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used 1039 in".

1040 (17) Code Section 36-60-6, relating to utilization of federal work authorization program, 1041 "employee" defined, issuance of license, evidence of state licensure, annual reporting, 1042 standardized form affidavit, violation, and investigations, in subsection (b), by replacing "For 1043 purposes of" with "As used in".

1044 (18) Code Section 36-60-15.1, relating to operation and maintenance of water treatment 1045 systems by private entities, by replacing "For purposes of this Code section, 'applicant' 1046 means" with "As used in this Code section, the term 'applicant' means". 1047 (19) Code Section 36-60-17, relating to water supplier's cut off of water to property because 1048 of indebtedness of prior owner, occupant, or lessee prohibited, records required, statement 1049 of past due amounts, and limited liens for unpaid charges for water, gas, sewerage service, 1050 or electricity, in subparagraph (c)(1)(D), by replacing "e-mail" with "email". 1051 (20) Code Section 36-60-19, relating to dispatch centers, required training for 1052 communications officers, exceptions, and penalty for noncompliance, in subsection (a), by 1053 replacing "(TDD's)" with "(TDDs)" each time the term appears. 1054 (21) Code Section 36-60-21, relating to contracts with private companies to construct and 1055 operate private toll roads and bridges to facilitate public transportation without additional tax 1056 revenues, in subsection (d), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1057 (22) Code Section 36-60-24, relating to sale or use or ignition of consumer fireworks 1058 products, in subsection (f), by replacing "For purposes of this subsection," with "As used in 1059 this Code section," and by replacing "provided" with "set forth". 1060 (23) Code Section 36-63-2, relating to purpose of chapter regarding resource recovery 1061 development authorities, in subsection (b), by replacing "however," with "however, that". 1062 (24) Code Section 36-63-4, relating to definitions regarding resource recovery development 1063 authorities, in paragraph (10), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in". 1064 (25) Code Section 36-63-8, relating to powers of authority generally, in paragraph (a)(6), 1065 by replacing "however," with "however, that".

1066 (26) Code Section 36-66-3, relating to definitions regarding zoning procedures, in 1067 paragraph (1.1), by replacing "powers including" with "powers, including" and in 1068 paragraph (5), by replacing "The term" with "Such term". 1069 (27) Code Section 36-66-4, relating to hearings on proposed zoning decisions, notice of 1070 hearing, nongovernmental initiated actions, reconsideration of defeated actions, and 1071 procedure on zoning, in subsection (a), by replacing "this Code Section." with "this Code 1072 section.".

1073 (28) Code Section 36-66C-7, relating to requirements of authority following receipt of 1074 application, notification of time lapse, consolidated application, limitation on installation 1075 locations and permits, reconditioning work, time restrictions, imminent risk to public safety, 1076 repair of damage, and delivery of notice or decision, in paragraph (j)(8), by replacing 1077 "Title 36" with "this title" and in paragraph (m)(4), by replacing "120 days written notice" 1078 with "120 days' written notice".

1079 (29) Code Section 36-70-2, relating to definitions regarding coordinated and comprehensive 1080 planning and service delivery by counties and municipalities, in paragraph (4), by deleting 1081 "of the State of Georgia created pursuant to Article 1 of Chapter 8 of Title 50" and in 1082 paragraph (5.2), by replacing "The term" with "Such term". 1083 (30) Code Section 36-70-21, as effective on January 1, 2026, relating to implementation 1084 agreements, in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "December 31st" with "December 31". 1085 (31) Code Section 36-70-22, as effective on January 1, 2026, relating to date for process 1086 initiation and notice to municipalities and counties impacted, in paragraph (a)(1), by 1087 replacing "April 1st" with "April 1" and by replacing "July 1st" with "July 1". 1088 (32) Code Section 36-70-22.1, as effective on January 1, 2026, relating to response 1089 proposals, in subsection (a), by deleting ", and" following "Code Section 36-70-23" and by 1090 replacing "all such factual" with "all factual".

1091 (33) Code Section 36-70-25.2, as effective on January 1, 2026, relating to nonbinding 1092 arbitration process, in paragraph (b)(1), by replacing "the 180th day" with "180 days". 1093 (34) Code Section 36-70-25.3, as effective on January 1, 2026, relating to judicial resolution 1094 of certain disputes, in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) and subsection (b), by replacing 1095 "non-binding" with "nonbinding".

1096 (35) Code Section 36-72-2, relating to definitions regarding abandoned cemeteries and 1097 burial grounds, in paragraph (3), by replacing "The term" with "Such term". 1098 (36) Code Section 36-76-2, relating to definitions regarding expedited franchising of cable 1099 and video services, in subparagraph (8)(A), by replacing "however, that" with "however, 1100 that,", in subparagraph (8)(E), by replacing "Internet" with "internet" each time the term 1101 appears, and in paragraph (17), by replacing "This term" with "Such term". 1102 (37) Code Section 36-76-4, relating to application process for the issuance of a state 1103 franchise and fees, in paragraph (c)(2), by replacing "geographical area" with "geographic 1104 area" and in paragraph (g)(8), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1105 (38) Code Section 36-80-16.1, relating to the PILOT Restriction Act, payments in lieu of 1106 taxes defined, and financing capital projects, in the undesignated text at the end of 1107 subsection (b), by replacing "The term 'payments in lieu of taxes'" with "Such term". 1108 (39) Code Section 36-80-17, relating to authorization to contract for utility services and 1109 conditions and limitations, in subsection (a), by replacing "the term 'local authority' does" 1110 with "such term does".

1111 (40) Code Section 36-80-19, relating to general codification of ordinances and resolutions, 1112 publication and availability of code, and official state repository for general codifications, 1113 in paragraph (d)(1), by replacing "Internet" with "internet". 1114 (41) Code Section 36-80-25, relating to financing of public projects by local entities, in 1115 subsection (a), by replacing "health care" with "healthcare". 1116 (42) Code Section 36-80-26, relating to multi-county community improvement districts for 1117 transit projects, in the introductory language of subsection (a), by replacing "For purposes 1118 of" with "As used in" and in subsection (b), by replacing "multi-county" with "multicounty". 1119 (43) Code Section 36-81-2, relating to definitions regarding local government budgets and 1120 audits, in paragraph (7), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in" and in 1121 paragraph (16), by replacing "For purposes of this paragraph, 'county' includes" with "As 1122 used in this paragraph, the term 'county' includes".

1123 (44) Code Section 36-82-1, relating to election for bonded debt, right to sell bonds at 1124 discount, advertisements as binding statements of intention, use of surpluses, meetings open 1125 to public, and refunding, in subsection (f), by replacing "however," with "however, that". 1126 (45) Code Section 36-82-60, relating to short title regarding revenue bonds, by inserting 1127 "shall be known and" preceding "may be cited".

1128 (46) Code Section 36-82-75, relating to duty of district attorney or Attorney General to file 1129 petition, order to show cause, service of petition and order, and answer, by replacing 1130 "however," with "however, that".

1131 (47) Code Section 36-82-182, relating to definitions regarding the "Georgia Allocation 1132 System," in paragraph (3), by replacing "For purposes of this article, the term 'bonds'" with 1133 "Such term" and in paragraph (5), by replacing "The term 'business day'" with "Such term". 1134 (48) Code Section 36-82-240, relating to definitions regarding commercial paper notes from 1135 government, in paragraph (2), by replacing "The term 'governmental entity' does not include 1136 'state authorities' as defined in paragraph (9) of Code Section 50-17-21." with "Such term 1137 does not include state authorities as defined in Code Section 50-17-21.". 1138 (49) Code Section 36-85-2, relating to formation, functions, counties and municipalities as 1139 separate classes, agreements creating agencies, and files of administrator are sole property 1140 of agency, in subsection (b), by replacing "however," with "however, that,". 1141 (50) Code Section 36-91-20, relating to written contract required, advertising, competitive 1142 sealed bidding, timing of addendums, and prequalification, in paragraph (b)(3), by replacing 1143 "Internet" with "internet" each time the term appears.

1144 (51) Code Section 36-91-21, relating to competitive award requirements, in 1145 paragraph (b)(4), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1146 (52) Code Section 36-91-50, relating to projects requiring bid bonds, revocation of bids, and 1147 surety, in subsection (c), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1148 SECTION 37.

1149 Title 37 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to mental health, is amended in: 1150 (1) Code Section 37-2-6.5, relating to cessation of operations by community service board, 1151 notification, and continuation of operations by successor board, county board of health, or 1152 outside manager, in paragraph (b)(2), by deleting "paragraph (1) of". 1153 (2) Code Section 37-2-11, relating to allocation of available funds for services, recipients 1154 to meet minimum standards, accounting for fees generated by providers, and discrimination 1155 in providing services prohibited, in subsection (b), by replacing "Code Section 37-3-6.1," 1156 with "Code Section 37-2-6.1,".

1157 (3) Code Section 37-7-167, relating to right of patient to examine his records and to request 1158 correction of inaccuracies, promulgation of rules and regulations, and judicial supervision 1159 of files and records relating to proceedings under this chapter, in subsection (d), by inserting 1160 "of subsection (a)" following "paragraphs (7) and (8)".

1161 SECTION 38.

1162 Reserved.

1163 SECTION 39.

1164 Reserved.

1165 SECTION 40.

1166 Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to motor vehicles and traffic, is 1167 amended in:

1168 (1) Code Section 40-1-221, relating to assumption of liability and insurance, in 1169 paragraph (c)(4), by replacing "car sharing" with "car-sharing" and in subsection (f), by 1170 replacing "car-sharing"with "peer-to-peer car-sharing".

1171 (2) Code Section 40-2-20, relating to registration and license requirements, certificate of 1172 registration and temporary operating permit, and two-year registration option for new motor 1173 vehicles, in subsection (d), by inserting a comma following "taxes". 1174 (3) Code Section 40-5-100, relating to application, contents of card, prohibition on 1175 possession of more than one card, and optional contributions to and participation in voluntary 1176 programs, in paragraph (f)(2), by replacing "a identification card" with "an identification 1177 card".

1178 (4) Code Section 40-14-18, relating to enforcement of speed limit in school zones with 1179 recorded images, civil monetary penalty, and consequences for failure to pay penalty, in the 1180 introductory language of subsection (h), by inserting "of this Code section" following 1181 "subsection (g)".

1182 (5) Code Section 40-16-8, which is reserved, by designating said Code section as repealed. 1183 SECTION 41.

1184 Reserved.

1185 SECTION 42.

1186 Title 42 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to penal institutions, is amended 1187 in:

1188 (1) Code Section 42-1-12, relating to the State Sexual Offender Registry, in 1189 paragraph (a)(6.1), by replacing "paragraph (2)" with "paragraph (3)". 1190 (2) Code Section 42-5-64, relating to educational programming and information provided 1191 to released prisoners, in subsection (f), by replacing "a personal identification card" with "an 1192 identification card".

1193 SECTION 43.

1194 Title 43 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to professions and businesses, 1195 is amended in:

1196 (1) Code Section 43-1-34, relating to licenses for transitioning members of the armed forces, 1197 in the introductory language of paragraph (d)(1), by replacing "described herein," with "set 1198 forth in this Code section,".

1199 (2) Code Section 43-1-35, relating to expedited license by endorsement for spouses of active 1200 or transitioning members of the armed forces and license by endorsement for certain 1201 professions, in the introductory language of subsection (c), by replacing "or a law" with "or 1202 law" and by replacing "individual has:" with "individual:". 1203 (3) Code Section 43-6-11, relating to qualifications of applicants for auctioneer's license, in 1204 subsection (d), by inserting "diploma" following "(HSE)". 1205 (4) Code Section 43-11-2.1, relating to board authority, appointment, powers, and duties of 1206 executive director and meetings, in subsection (b), by replacing "Chapter 1 of Title 43" with 1207 "Chapter 1 of this title".

1208 (5) Code Section 43-15-2, relating to definitions regarding professional engineers and land 1209 surveyors, in paragraph (5.1), by replacing "'Executive Director'" with "'Executive director'". 1210 (6) Code Section 43-24A-19, relating to exceptions regarding the "Georgia Massage 1211 Therapy Practice Act," in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "Title 43" with "this title". 1212 (7) Code Section 43-26-10, relating to practicing without a license prohibited, in 1213 paragraph (4), by replacing "so to practice" with "to practice". 1214 (8) Code Section 43-27-2, relating to State Board of Long-Term Care Facility 1215 Administrators and members, in the introductory language of subsection (a), by replacing 1216 "eleven" with "11".

1217 (9) Code Section 43-28-21, relating to text of the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, 1218 in Section 2A, by replacing "10 U.S.C. Chapter 1209 and Section 1211" with "10 U.S.C. 1219 Chapters 1209 and 1211".

1220 (10) Code Section 43-33-18, relating to refusal to grant or restore licenses, discipline of 1221 licensees, suspension, revocation, or restriction of licenses, and immunity for violation 1222 reporters, in the introductory language of subparagraph (a)(2)(A), division (a)(2)(A)(i), and 1223 subparagraph (a)(2)(E), by replacing "Title 43" with "this title" each time the term appears. 1224 (11) Code Section 43-33-31, relating to ratification and text of the Physical Therapy 1225 Licensure Compact, in Section 2(1), by replacing "10 U.S.C. Section 1209 and 1211" with 1226 "10 U.S.C. Chapters 1209 and 1211".

1227 (12) Code Section 43-34-25, relating to delegation of certain medical acts to advanced 1228 practice registered nurse, construction and limitations of such delegation, conditions of nurse 1229 protocol, and issuance of prescription drug orders, in paragraph (g)(10), by replacing "and 1230 who" with "who", in paragraph (g.1)(2), by deleting the comma following "body", and in 1231 subparagraph (m)(2)(C), by deleting "that".

1232 (13) Code Section 43-34-103, relating to application for licensure as a physician assistant, 1233 authorized delegated authority, and prohibited acts, in paragraph (c)(4), by deleting "that". 1234 (14) Code Section 43-34-290, relating to confidentiality of records regarding pain 1235 management clinics, by replacing "Chapter 34 of Title 43" with "this chapter". 1236 (15) Code Section 43-41-8, relating to eligibility for licensure without examination, 1237 reciprocity, and burden upon applicant, in paragraph (a)(2), by replacing "their" with "his or 1238 her".

1239 (16) Code Section 43-41-18, relating to certain military specialties or certifications entitle 1240 persons to obtain certain professional licenses, in subsections (b) and (c), by replacing 1241 "residential light-commercial" with "residential-light commercial" each time the phrase 1242 appears.

1243 (17) Chapters 42 and 48, which are repealed, by designating said chapters as reserved. 1244 (18) Code Section 43-44-31, relating to text of the Audiology and Speech-Language 1245 Pathology Interstate Compact, in Section 2(1), by replacing "10 U.S.C. Section 1209 and 1246 1211" with "10 U.S.C. Chapters 1209 and 1211".

1247 (19) Code Section 43-50-44, relating to exemptions from article regarding licensing of 1248 veterinarians and veterinary technicians, in paragraph (19), by replacing "laws;" with "laws; 1249 or".

1250 SECTION 44.

1251 Title 44 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to property, is amended in: 1252 (1) Code Section 44-2-39, relating to adoption of rules and regulations and standardization, 1253 in paragraph (b)(1), by replacing "personal identification card" with "identification card". 1254 (2) Code Section 44-3-106, relating to powers and responsibilities of condominium 1255 associations and tort actions, in paragraph (a)(4), by replacing "complied with or" with 1256 "complied with; or".

1257 (3) Code Section 44-3-230, relating to frequency of meetings and notice regarding property 1258 owners' associations, in subsection (b), by replacing "may called" with "may be called". 1259 (4) Code Section 44-3-231, relating to powers and duties of property owners' associations 1260 and legal actions against agent or employee of association, in paragraph (a)(4), by replacing 1261 "compiled with or" with "complied with; or".

1262 (5) Code Section 44-5-60, relating to effect of zoning laws, covenants and scenic easements 1263 for use of public, renewal of certain covenants, and costs, in subsection (b), by replacing 1264 "provided, however, that" with "provided, however, that," and in paragraph (d)(6), by 1265 replacing "15 individuals plots" with "15 individual plots". 1266 (6) Code Section 44-7-55, relating to judgment, writ of possession, landlord's liability for 1267 wrongful conduct, distribution of funds paid into court, and personal property, by revising 1268 subsection (e) as follows:

1269 "(e) Nothing in this Code section shall require a sheriff, constable, or marshal to execute 1270 a writ of possession within 30 days from the issuance of any order granting a writ of 1271 possession, or the issuance, application, or request for the execution of the writ of 1272 possession; provided, however, that, in the event the sheriff, sheriff deputy sheriff, 1273 constable, or marshal is unable to execute the writ within 14 days from the landlord's 1274 application or request for such execution, the landlord shall be entitled to utilize the 1275 services of an off-duty sheriff, sheriff deputy sheriff, constable, marshal, or other individual 1276 certified by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council having authority 1277 within the jurisdiction wherein the premises lie to execute such writ at the landlord's sole 1278 cost and expense. The sheriff, sheriff deputy sheriff, constable, or marshal shall maintain 1279 a list of authorized off-duty sheriffs, sheriff deputies deputy sheriffs, constables, marshals, 1280 and other individuals certified by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training 1281 Council and make the same available upon request by the landlord. The sheriff, sheriff 1282 deputy sheriff, constable, or marshal shall maintain administrative authority over any 1283 persons executing writs under this subsection. The landlord shall provide written notice 1284 to the sheriff, sheriff deputy sheriff, constable, or marshal of the date and time of the 1285 execution of the writ by such off-duty sheriff, sheriff deputy sheriff, constable, marshal, 1286 or other individuals individual certified by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and 1287 Training Council at least five calendar days in advance of such execution in order to permit 1288 the sheriff, sheriff deputy sheriff, constable, or marshal to note the same within their his or 1289 her own records."

1290 (7) Code Section 44-11-30, relating to manner of ejecting intruders, affidavit, ejection by 1291 sheriff and other peace officers, and counteraffidavit, by replacing "sheriff deputy," with 1292 "deputy sheriff," each time the term appears.

1293 (8) Code Section 43-11-31, relating to sheriff and other peace officers competent to 1294 administer oath to person in possession, by replacing "sheriff deputy," with "deputy sheriff,". 1295 (9) Code Section 44-11-32, relating to procedure on submission of counteraffidavit, trial, 1296 nonmeritorious submission, and appeal, by deleting the subsection (a) designation and in 1297 paragraphs (1) and (2), by replacing "sheriff deputy," with "deputy sheriff," each time the 1298 term appears.

1299 (10) Code Section 44-11-33, relating to issuance of writ of possession, fi. fa. for costs, and 1300 presentation to law enforcement, by replacing "44-11-32, finds" with "44-11-32 finds". 1301 (11) Code Section 44-12-231, relating to enforcement of article regarding disposition of 1302 unclaimed property and properties not paid over on a timely basis, in subsection (b), by 1303 replacing "48-3-1" with "48-3-3".

1304 SECTION 45.

1305 Title 45 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to public officers and employees, 1306 is amended in:

1307 (1) Code Section 45-9-81, relating to definitions regarding the Georgia State Indemnification 1308 Fund, in paragraph (1), by repealing and reserving said paragraph. 1309 (2) Code Section 45-17-8, relating to powers and duties generally of notaries public, in 1310 subsection (e), by replacing "personal identification card" with "identification card". 1311 (3) Code Section 45-19-44, relating to unlawful practices punishable by civil fine, at the end 1312 of the introductory language of paragraph (a)(5), by replacing the semicolon with a colon. 1313 SECTION 46.

1314 Title 46 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to public utilities and public 1315 transportation, is amended in:

1316 (1) Code Section 46-2-8, relating to payment of salaries and expenses by commission, 1317 appropriations for salaries and expenses, and designation of Public Service Commission 1318 Fund, by replacing "for Commissioners," with "for the Commissioners,". 1319 (2) Code Section 46-2-23.1, relating to "alternative form of regulation" defined, filing, 1320 notice, approval, and release of interstate pipeline capacity, in subparagraph (i)(1)(C), by 1321 replacing "that if" with "that, if".

1322 (3) Code Section 46-2-26.3, relating to recovery of costs of conversion from oil-burning to 1323 coal-burning generating facility, filing of request, public hearing, determination of rate, and 1324 adjustments, in subsection (a), by replacing "Public Service Commission" with "commission" 1325 and by revising subsection (b) as follows:

1326 "(b) As used in this Code section, the term For the purposes of this Code section, the 1327 following words or terms shall have the following meanings: 1328 (1) 'Coal' shall mean means coal used as a primary energy source. 1329 (2) 'Commission' shall mean the Georgia Public Service Commission. 1330 (3)(2)(A) 'Cost of conversion' shall mean means costs as determined by the 1331 commission to be reasonable and necessary for the conversion of an oil-burning electric 1332 generating facility to the burning of coal. Such costs shall include, but not be limited 1333 to, engineering, administrative, and legal costs,; the cost of environmental studies and 1334 control equipment, coal-handling and storage equipment, including rail facilities, 1335 equipment and facilities necessary to permit the combustion of coal,; the cost of 1336 retrofitting or refurbishing boilers to permit the combustion of coal,; the cost of on-site 1337 and off-site facilities for handling, storing, and disposing of wastes resulting from the 1338 combustion of coal,; and the cost of all other facilities reasonable and necessary to 1339 allow the conversion of an oil-burning electric generating facility to burn coal. Such 1340 costs shall also include the reasonable cost of capital for such conversion and for 1341 carrying the cost of such conversion until such costs are recovered as provided in this 1342 Code section. In no case shall cost of conversion such term include any costs incurred 1343 pursuant to an expansion of an electric generating facility's generating capacity above 1344 the generating capacity of said facility that existed prior to the conversion from oil to 1345 coal.

1346 (B) Such term 'Cost of conversion' shall not include the amount financed by the 1347 company through tax-exempt pollution control bonds, if any, of any portion of the 1348 project certified by the Environmental Protection Division of the Department of Natural 1349 Resources, or other agency vested with similar authority, to be a pollution control 1350 facility and therefore eligible for financing under Section 103 of the Internal Revenue 1351 Code and the regulations thereunder or other similar law or regulation now or hereafter 1352 adopted.

1353 (4)(3) 'Fuel cost savings' shall mean means the amount of fuel savings to be obtained by 1354 operating the facility converted from oil to coal-fired operation during the facility's first 1355 full 12 months of operation using coal as its primary fuel as compared to the operation 1356 of such facility on oil, had it been so operated, during the same 12 month period. 1357 (5)(4) 'Utility' shall mean means any retail supplier of electricity subject to the 1358 rate-making jurisdiction of the commission."

1359 (4) Code Section 46-2-26.5, relating to gas supply plans and adjustment factors, filings and 1360 hearing procedures, and recovery of purchase gas cost, by deleting paragraph (a)(2) and 1361 redesignating paragraphs (a)(3) through (a)(8) as paragraphs (a)(2) through (a)(7), 1362 respectively.

1363 (5) Code Section 46-2-28, relating to procedure for issuance of stocks, bonds, notes, or other 1364 debt by companies under commission's jurisdiction and exemptions, in the introductory 1365 language of subsection (g), by deleting "paragraph (10) of". 1366 (6) Code Section 46-3-1, relating to the short title regarding allocation of territorial rights 1367 to electric suppliers, by inserting "and may be cited" following "known". 1368 (7) Code Section 46-3-3, relating to definitions regarding allocation of territorial rights to 1369 electric suppliers, in paragraph (2), by replacing "has the meaning provided by paragraph (3) 1370 of" with "shall have the same meaning as set forth in".

1371 (8) Code Section 46-3-4, relating to assignment or declaration as unassigned areas-B of 1372 geographic areas outside municipal limits as of March 29, 1973, in paragraph (3), by 1373 replacing "provided that if" with "provided that, if" and by replacing "however, that" with 1374 "however, that,".

1375 (9) Code Section 46-3-7, relating to assignment and unassignment of geographic areas 1376 annexed to municipalities after March 29, 1973, in subparagraphs (2)(A) and (2)(D), by 1377 replacing "provided that" with "provided that,".

1378 (10) Code Section 46-3-32, relating to definitions regarding high-voltage safety, in 1379 paragraph (3), by replacing "this term" with "such term". 1380 (11) Code Section 46-3-33, relating to required conditions for commencing work within ten 1381 feet of high-voltage line, in the introductory language, by deleting "as defined in 1382 paragraph (6) of Code Section 46-3-32".

1383 (12) Code Section 46-3-52, relating to jurisdiction of commission over cogeneration facility 1384 the energy from which is used solely by operator, by deleting paragraph (3) and 1385 redesignating paragraphs (4) through (12) as paragraphs (3) through (11), respectively. 1386 (13) Code Section 46-3-62, relating to definitions regarding solar power free-market 1387 financing, in paragraph (5), by replacing "has the same meaning as provided in paragraph (3) 1388 of" with "shall have the same meaning as set forth in" and in paragraph (9), by replacing "has 1389 the same meaning as provided in paragraph (6) of" with "shall have the same meaning as set 1390 forth in".

1391 (14) Code Section 46-3-66, relating to construction and applicability, in subsections (d) and 1392 (e), by replacing "the effective date of this part" with "July 1, 2015,". 1393 (15) Code Section 46-3-115, relating terms of authority members generally and time of 1394 meeting of election committee prior to annual meeting of authority, by replacing "provided 1395 that" with "provided that,".

1396 (16) Code Section 46-3-120, relating to quorum of authority, action by majority vote, and 1397 adjournment of meetings at which less than a majority is present, by replacing "provided 1398 that" with "provided that,".

1399 (17) Code Section 46-3-170, relating to short title regarding general provisions relative to 1400 electric membership corporations and foreign electric cooperatives, by replacing "article 1401 may" with "article shall be known and may".

1402 (18) Code Section 46-3-263, relating to notice of members' meetings, in subsection (a), by 1403 replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

1404 (19) Code Section 46-3-322, relating to filing articles of incorporation, issuance of 1405 certificate of incorporation, forwarding of copy of certificate to clerk of superior court, 1406 rejection of articles of incorporation, publication of notice, and commencement of corporate 1407 existence, in paragraph (e)(1), by inserting quotation marks at the beginning and end of the 1408 form, and by revising paragraph (c)(4) as follows:

1409 "(4) A letter addressed to the publisher of a newspaper which is the official organ of the 1410 county where the initial registered office of the electric membership corporation is to be 1411 located or which is a newspaper of general circulation published within that county 1412 whose most recently published annual statement of ownership and circulation reflects a 1413 minimum of 60 percent paid circulation. This letter shall contain a notice to be published 1414 four times in the newspaper and shall be in substantially the following form: 1415 '_______________________________________

1416 _______________________________________

1417 _______________________________________

1418 (name and address of the newspaper designated

1419 by the incorporator or incorporators or

1420 his or their representative thereof)

1421 Dear Sirs:

1422 You are requested to publish, four times, a notice in the following form: 1423 '"_____________________ (name of electric membership corporation) has been duly 1424 incorporated on _____________________ (month, day, and year to be inserted by the 1425 Secretary of State), by the issuance of a certificate of incorporation by the Secretary 1426 of State in accordance with the applicable provisions of Article 4 of Chapter 3 of Title 1427 46, the "'Georgia Electric Membership Corporation Act."' The initial registered office 1428 of the electric membership corporation is located at _____________________ 1429 (address of registered office) and its initial registered agent at such address is 1430 ______________________ (name of agent).'"

1431 Enclosed is a (check, draft, or money order) in the amount of $60.00 in payment of the 1432 costs of publishing this notice.

1433 Very truly yours,

1434 ____________________________________

1435 ____________________________________

1436 ____________________________________

1437 (Name and address of incorporator or

1438 incorporators or his or their representative thereof)'" 1439 (20) Code Section 46-3-363, relating to obtaining of certificate from Secretary of State upon 1440 amendment of name of electric membership corporation, filing articles of amendment, 1441 issuance of certificate of amendment, forwarding of copy of certificate to superior court, 1442 rejection of articles of amendment, and publication of notice, by revising paragraph (c)(4) 1443 as follows:

1444 "(4) A letter addressed to the publisher of a newspaper which is the official organ of the 1445 county where the registered office of the electric membership corporation is located or 1446 which is a newspaper of general circulation published within that county whose most 1447 recently published annual statement of ownership and circulation reflects a minimum of 1448 60 percent paid circulation. This letter shall contain a notice to be published four times 1449 in the newspaper and shall be in substantially the following form: 1450 '_______________________________

1451 _______________________________

1452 _______________________________

1453 (Name and address of the newspaper

1454 designated by the electric

1455 membership corporation)

1456 Dear Sirs:

1457 You are requested to publish, four times, a notice in the following form: 1458 '"The Articles of Incorporation of ______________________ (name of electric 1459 membership corporation) have been duly amended on ______________, ____ 1460 (month, day, and year to be inserted by the Secretary of State), by the issuance of a 1461 certificate of amendment by the Secretary of State, in accordance with the applicable 1462 provisions of Article 4 of Chapter 3 of Title 46, the "'Georgia Electric Membership 1463 Corporation Act."'"

1464 Enclosed is a (check, draft, or money order) in the amount of $60.00 in payment of the 1465 cost of publishing this notice.

1466 Very truly yours,

1467 ___________________________

1468 ___________________________

1469 ___________________________

1470 (Name and address of the electric

1471 membership corporation

1472 or its representative)'"

1473 (21) Code Section 46-3-383, relating to contents of articles of merger or articles of 1474 consolidation, obtaining of certificate from Secretary of State upon use of new name, and 1475 procedures involving filing, issuance, rejection, and publication of articles of merger or 1476 articles of consolidation, by revising paragraph (d)(4) as follows: 1477 "(4) A letter addressed to the publisher of a newspaper which is the official organ of the 1478 county where the registered office of the surviving or new electric membership 1479 corporation is to be located or which is a newspaper of general circulation published 1480 within that county whose most recently published annual statement of ownership and 1481 circulation reflects a minimum of 60 percent paid circulation. This letter shall contain 1482 a notice to be published four times in the newspaper and shall be in substantially the 1483 following form:

1484 '_______________________________________

1485 _______________________________________

1486 _______________________________________

1487 (name and address of the newspaper designated

1488 by the merging or consolidating

1489 electric membership corporations)

1490 Dear Sirs:

1491 You are requested to publish, four times, a notice in the following form: 1492 '"A (merger) (consolidation) (has been) (will be) effected by and between 1493 _______________________ (name and state of incorporation of each of the 1494 constituent electric membership corporations) on _______________________ 1495 (month, day, and year to be inserted by the Secretary of State) by the issuance of a 1496 certificate of (merger) (consolidation) by the Secretary of State, in accordance with 1497 the applicable provisions of Article 4 of Chapter 3 of Title 46, the "'Georgia Electric 1498 Membership Corporation Act."' The name of the (surviving electric membership 1499 corporation in the merger) (new electric membership corporation resulting from the 1500 consolidation) (is) (will be) _______________________ (set forth the name and state 1501 of incorporation of the surviving electric membership corporation or new electric 1502 membership corporation, as the case may be), the registered office of which (is) (will 1503 be) located at _______________________ (address of registered office).'" 1504 Enclosed is a (check, draft, or money order) in the amount of $60.00 in payment of the 1505 cost of publishing this notice.

1506 Very truly yours,

1507 ____________________________

1508 ____________________________

1509 ____________________________

1510 (Name and address of merging

1511 or consolidating electric

1512 membership corporations

1513 or their representative)'"

1514 (22) Code Section 46-3-423, relating to procedure after filing statement of intent to dissolve, 1515 by revising subsection (a) as follows:

1516 "(a) The electric membership corporation shall immediately cause notice of its intent to 1517 dissolve to be published in a newspaper which is the official organ of the county where the 1518 registered office of the electric membership corporation is located or which is a newspaper 1519 of general circulation published within that county whose most recently published annual 1520 statement of ownership and circulation reflects a minimum of 60 percent paid circulation. 1521 This notice shall be published four times in the newspaper and shall be in substantially the 1522 following form:

1523 'A Statement of Intent to Dissolve _____________________ (name of electric 1524 membership corporation), a Georgia electric membership corporation with registered 1525 office at _____________________ (address of registered office), has been delivered to 1526 the Secretary of State by said electric membership corporation and filed by him on 1527 ______________, ____ (month, day, and year), in accordance with the applicable 1528 provisions of Article 4 of Chapter 3 of Title 46, the '"Georgia Electric Membership 1529 Corporation Act."'"

1530 (23) Code Section 46-3-468, relating to application for reinstatement of certificate of 1531 authority, by revising subsection (c) as follows:

1532 "(c) The application for reinstatement shall be in substantially the following form: 1533 'Application for Reinstatement of

1534 Certificate of Authority

1535 To: The Secretary of State

1536 Atlanta, Georgia

1537 Pursuant to the provisions of Code Section 46-3-468, the undersigned foreign electric 1538 cooperative hereby applies for a certificate of reinstatement of a foreign electric 1539 cooperative and, for that purpose, submits the following: 1540 First: The name of the foreign electric cooperative at the date of the certificate of 1541 revocation was _______________________.

1542 Second: The new name by which the foreign electric cooperative will hereafter be 1543 known is _______________________.

1544 Third: The certificate of authority to transact business in the State of Georgia was 1545 revoked on ______________ for failure to follow the requirements stated in Code 1546 Section 46-3-466.

1547 Fourth: The address, including street and number, of its registered office in Georgia is 1548 _______________________; and the name of its registered agent in Georgia at that 1549 address is _______________________.

1550 Fifth: The application is accompanied by all delinquent reports together with the filing 1551 fees and penalties required by Article 4 of Chapter 3 of Title 46, the '"Georgia Electric 1552 Membership Corporation Act.'"

1553 Date ______________, ____.

1554 __________________________

1555 (President or vice-president)

1556 __________________________

1557 (Secretary or assistant secretary)'"

1558 (24) Code Section 46-3-480, relating to requirement of annual reports by electric 1559 membership corporation and foreign electric cooperative, in subsection (b), by replacing 1560 "however," with "provided, however, that".

1561 (25) Code Section 46-3A-1, relating to definitions regarding integrated resource planning, 1562 in the introductory language, by replacing "chapter:" with "chapter, the term:" and by 1563 deleting paragraph (2) and redesignating paragraphs (3) through (9) as paragraphs (2) 1564 through (8), respectively.

1565 (26) Code Section 46-3A-3, relating to actions prohibited without a certificate of public 1566 convenience and necessity, in the undesignated text at the end of subsection (b), by replacing 1567 "however," with "however, that".

1568 (27) Code Section 46-3A-10, relating to effect on rates of changed revenues and risks and 1569 basis and effect of commission decision, by replacing "however," with "however, that". 1570 (28) Code Section 46-4-85, relating to authority members and terms of office, by replacing 1571 "provided that" with "provided that,".

1572 (29) Code Section 46-4-90, relating to quorum and majority vote, by replacing "provided 1573 that" with "provided that,".

1574 (30) Code Section 46-4-152, relating to definitions regarding natural gas competition and 1575 deregulation, in paragraph (5), by replacing "The term control" with "Such term" and in 1576 paragraph (10.1), by replacing "defined" with "described". 1577 (31) Code Section 46-4-154, relating to notice of election, unbundling, rates, application 1578 requirements, and surcharge on interruptibles, in subsection (e), by replacing "medicare" with 1579 "Medicare" and by replacing "writeoffs" with "write-offs". 1580 (32) Code Section 46-4-158.2, relating to rules governing marketer's terms of service, in 1581 paragraph (8), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1582 (33) Code Section 46-4-159, relating to standards of conduct for electing distribution 1583 companies and response to complaints, in paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "The term control" 1584 with "Such term", in subparagraph (a)(3)(B), by replacing "the term marketer" with "such 1585 term", and in paragraph (b)(9), by replacing "however," with "provided, however, that". 1586 (34) Code Section 46-4-160, relating to commission's authority over certificated marketers, 1587 access to records, investigations and hearings, price summary, billing, violations, and 1588 slamming, in subsection (j), by replacing "phrase" with "term". 1589 (35) Code Section 46-5-1, relating to exercise of power of eminent domain by telephone 1590 companies, placement of posts and other fixtures, regulation of construction of fixtures, 1591 posts, and wires near railroad tracks, liability of telephone companies for damages, required 1592 information, and due compensation, in subparagraph (b)(1)(B) and paragraph (b)(7), by 1593 replacing "Georgia Public Service Commission" with "commission", in the introductory 1594 language of paragraph (b)(9), by replacing "Code section," with "Code section, the term", in 1595 paragraph (b)(12), by replacing "As used in this Code section," with "As used in this Code 1596 section, the term" and by replacing "however, that if" with "however, that, if", in 1597 paragraph (b)(13), by replacing "ten percent" with "10 percent", and in 1598 subparagraph (b)(19)(A), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1599 (36) Code Section 46-5-2, relating to avoiding or attempting to avoid charges for use of 1600 telecommunication service, penalties, and computation of damages, in paragraph (b)(1), by 1601 replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

1602 (37) Code Section 46-5-3, relating to making, possessing, selling, allowing use of, or 1603 publishing assembly plans for devices, equipment, or apparatus for committing theft of 1604 telecommunications service, or for concealing origin or destination of any 1605 telecommunication and compensatory damages, in paragraph (a)(3), by replacing "The term" 1606 with "Such term" and in paragraph (c)(1), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1607 (38) Code Section 46-5-5, relating to inclusion of local exchanges 495 and 567 in area 1608 code 404, by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1609 (39) Code Section 46-5-26, relating to access to live telephone operator, in subsection (a), 1610 by replacing "For the purpose of this Code section," with "As used in this Code section, the 1611 term" and by replacing "dials '0'." with "dials '0.'"

1612 (40) Code Section 46-5-27, relating to telephone solicitation calls and do not call database, 1613 in subparagraph (b)(3)(B), by deleting "or" at the end and in subsection (n), by replacing 1614 "voice over internet protocol" with "Voice over Internet Protocol". 1615 (41) Code Section 46-5-28, relating to consent required for inclusion of subscribers' names 1616 or dialing numbers in a wireless telephone data base or a traditional telephone directory, 1617 exceptions, disclosure of wireless numbers to telemarketers prohibited, violations, and 1618 immunity of service suppliers for authorized disclosures, in paragraph (a)(3), by replacing 1619 "The term" with "Such term".

1620 (42) Code Section 46-5-30, relating to establishment, administration, and operation of 1621 state-wide dual party relay service and audible universal information access service, in 1622 subsection (c), by replacing "basis; however," with "basis; provided, however, that". 1623 (43) Code Section 46-5-60, relating to short title regarding rural telephone cooperatives, by 1624 replacing "part may" with "part shall be known and may". 1625 (44) Code Section 46-5-62, relating to definitions regarding rural telephone cooperatives, 1626 in paragraph (5), by replacing "This term" with "Such term". 1627 (45) Code Section 46-5-63, relating to powers of cooperatives generally, in paragraph (4.1), 1628 by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

1629 (46) Code Section 46-5-75, relating to certificate of Secretary of State, by inserting quotation 1630 marks at the beginning and end of the form.

1631 (47) Code Section 46-5-93, relating to pledging or encumbering of property, assets, rights, 1632 and privileges of cooperative by board of directors to secure indebtedness to federal 1633 government, tax exemption for mortgages and deeds of trust, and sale, pledge, or 1634 encumbrance of property, in subsection (b), by replacing "provided that" with "provided 1635 that,".

1636 (48) Code Section 46-5-122, relating to definitions regarding emergency telephone number 1637 9-1-1 system, in paragraph (5), by replacing "The term 'emergency 9-1-1 system'" with "Such 1638 term", in paragraph (7), by replacing "Georgia Public Service Commission" with 1639 "commission" and by replacing "The term 'exchange access facility'" with "Such term", in 1640 the undesignated text at the end of paragraph (12.1), by replacing "Internet" with "internet", 1641 in paragraph (17.1), by replacing "over the Internet" with "over the internet" and by replacing 1642 "Internet protocol" with "Internet Protocol", and in paragraph (19), by replacing "The term" 1643 with "Such term" each time the phrase appears.

1644 (49) Code Section 46-5-134.2, relating to prepaid wireless 9-1-1 charge, definitions, 1645 imposition of fee by localities, collection and remission of charges, and distribution of funds, 1646 in paragraph (g)(3), by replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in". 1647 (50) Code Section 46-5-162, relating to definitions regarding telecommunications and 1648 competition development, in the introductory language of paragraph (10), by replacing "For 1649 purposes of this article, there" with "There" and in paragraph (18), by replacing "For 1650 purposes of illustration, the term 'telecommunications services'" with "Such term". 1651 (51) Code Section 46-5-163, relating to certificates of authority, in subsection (f), by 1652 replacing "however, that" with "however, that,".

1653 (52) Code Section 46-5-165, relating to alternative regulation of rates, terms, and conditions, 1654 in subsection (a), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1655 (53) Code Section 46-5-167, relating to Universal Access Fund, in paragraph (d)(1), by 1656 replacing "For purposes of" with "As used in" and in subsection (g), by replacing "Public 1657 Service Commission" with "commission".

1658 (54) Code Section 46-5-181, relating to definitions regarding the "Telecommunications 1659 Marketing Act of 1998," by revising said Code section as follows: 1660 "46-5-181.

1661 As used in this article, the terms 'local exchange company,' 'telecommunications company,' 1662 and 'telecommunications services' shall have the same meaning as provided in Code 1663 Section 46-5-162; the term 'local exchange carrier' shall have the same meaning as 'local 1664 exchange company'; and the term 'long distance service' shall include interexchange 1665 inter-LATA telecommunications service and interexchange intra-LATA 1666 telecommunications service term:

1667 (1) 'Local exchange carrier' shall have the same meaning as the term 'local exchange 1668 company.'

1669 (2) 'Local exchange company' shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code 1670 Section 46-5-162.

1671 (3) 'Long distance service' includes interexchange inter-LATA telecommunications 1672 service and interexchange intra-LATA telecommunications service. 1673 (4) 'Telecommunications company' shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code 1674 Section 46-5-162.

1675 (5) 'Telecommunications services' shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code 1676 Section 46-5-162."

1677 (55) Code Section 46-5-221, relating to definitions regarding competitive emerging 1678 communications technologies, in subparagraph (1)(A), by replacing "Internet;" with 1679 "internet;", in the undesignated text at the end of paragraph (1), by replacing "For the 1680 purposes of this article, broadband service" with "Such term", and in paragraph (2), by 1681 replacing "Internet protocol" with "internet protocol".

1682 (56) Code Section 46-8-20, relating to exclusive power of commission to determine just and 1683 reasonable rates and charges, establishing rates and tariffs generally, and locating of depots 1684 and construction of freight and passenger buildings, in paragraph (b)(4), by replacing 1685 "provided that" with "provided that,".

1686 (57) Code Section 46-8-42, relating to certificate of incorporation, duration of corporate 1687 existence, and fee for issuance of certificate, in subsection (a), by inserting quotation marks 1688 at the beginning and end of the form.

1689 (58) Code Section 46-8-100, relating to general powers regarding powers of railroad 1690 companies generally, in paragraph (3), by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1691 (59) Code Section 46-8-291, relating to consent and contributory negligence as defenses and 1692 comparative negligence as affecting amount of recovery, by replacing "provided that" with 1693 "provided that,".

1694 (60) Code Section 46-8-312, relating to service of process on lessor railroad company, 1695 generally, by replacing "however, that" with "however, that,". 1696 (61) Code Section 46-8-339, relating to authority of street, suburban, and interurban railroad 1697 companies to furnish steam for heating and power purposes and to lay and maintain 1698 steampipes, by replacing "provided that" with "provided that,". 1699 (62) Code Section 46-9-42, relating to effect of strike by carrier's employees on carrier's 1700 duty to transport goods, by replacing "provided that" with "provided that,". 1701 (63) Code Section 46-9-48, relating to adjustment and payment by common carriers of 1702 claims for loss of property or overcharge for freight and effect of failure by common carrier 1703 to adjust and pay claim, by replacing "provided that" with "provided that,". 1704 (64) Code Section 46-9-50, relating to weighing of railroad cars by certified public weighers 1705 and manner of weighing cars, in subsection (b), by replacing "provided that when" with 1706 "provided that, when".

1707 (65) Code Section 46-9-138, relating to granting of annual passes by common carriers to 1708 sheriffs and their deputies, by replacing "provided that the term 'sheriffs and their lawful 1709 deputies,' as used in this Code section, means" with "provided that, as used in this Code 1710 section, the term 'sheriffs and their lawful deputies' means". 1711 (66) Code Section 46-9-212, relating to switching off and delivering to connecting roads all 1712 cars consigned to points over or beyond the connecting roads, in subsection (b), by replacing 1713 "provided that" with "provided that,".

1714 (67) Code Section 46-9-230, relating to manner of incorporation of express companies, by 1715 inserting quotation marks at the beginning and end of the certificate form. 1716 (68) Code Section 46-9-290, relating to Designated Georgia Rail Passenger Corridors, in 1717 paragraph (b)(2), by replacing "For the purposes of this subsection, 'high speed rail' is 1718 defined as involving" with "As used in this subsection, the term 'high speed rail' means". 1719 (69) Chapters 10 and 11, which are reserved, by designating said chapters as repealed. 1720 (70) The following Code sections, by replacing "Public Service Commission" and "Georgia 1721 Public Service Commission" with "commission" each time the term appears: 1722 (A) Code Section 46-1-2, relating to measure of damages for wrongs and injuries by 1723 railroad companies generally and venue for actions against railroad companies and electric 1724 companies generally;

1725 (B) Code Section 46-2-10, relating to payment of special fee by corporations and utilities 1726 subject to jurisdiction of commission, notice of amount due, and procedure on default; 1727 (C) Code Section 46-2-25.2, relating to sixteen-mile toll-free telephone calling, 1728 modification of rate schedules, recovery of expenses or lost revenues by telephone 1729 companies, and rate-making power of Public Service Commission not affected; 1730 (D) Code Section 46-2-25.3, relating to toll-free calls within 22 miles of exchange, 1731 hearings, and "net gain" defined;

1732 (E) Code Section 46-3-152, relating to jurisdiction of commission over rates, services, and 1733 practices of authority;

1734 (F) Code Section 46-4-53, relating to application to commission by gas utility for order 1735 approving utilization or operation of underground reservoir, hearing on application 1736 generally, and giving notice of hearing;

1737 (G) Code Section 46-4-54, relating to investigation by state geologist of site of proposed 1738 storage project, procedures involving state geologist, investigation of proposed storage 1739 project by director of Environmental Protection Division, procedures involving director, 1740 and investigation of proposed storage project by commission; 1741 (H) Code Section 46-4-60, relating to adoption by Board of Natural Resources of rules and 1742 regulations governing construction, installation, utilization, and operation of underground 1743 reservoirs and stations, wells, fixtures, and other facilities, enforcement of rules and 1744 regulations, and inspection and examination;

1745 (I) Code Section 46-4-122, relating to exemption from regulation by Public Service 1746 Commission;

1747 (J) Code Section 46-4A-12, relating to construction of chapter regarding provision of 1748 energy conservation assistance to residential customers by electric and gas utilities; 1749 (K) Code Section 46-5-6, relating to exclusive power and authority of the Public Service 1750 Commission to prescribe rules and regulations regarding public pay telephones; 1751 (L) Code Section 46-5-41, relating to obtaining of certificate of public convenience and 1752 necessity for construction, operation, acquisition, or extension of telephone lines, plants, 1753 or systems;

1754 (M) Code Section 46-5-124, relating to guidelines for implementing a state-wide 1755 emergency 9-1-1 system and training and equipment standards; 1756 (N) Code Section 46-5-126, relating to cooperation by commission and telephone industry; 1757 (O) Code Section 46-5-137, relating to powers of Public Service Commission not affected; 1758 (P) Code Section 46-5-182, relating to certification of telecommunications companies 1759 which bill for or solicit intrastate telecommunications services; 1760 (Q) Code Section 46-5-211, relating to consent of end user required for release of 1761 telephone records and law enforcement exception;

1762 (R) Code Section 46-5-213, relating to circumstances to which this article not applicable 1763 regarding disclosure of certain customer information;

1764 (S) Code Section 46-5-222, relating to commission has no authority over setting of rates 1765 or terms and conditions for the offering of broadband service, voice over Internet protocol, 1766 or wireless service and limitations;

1767 (T) Code Section 46-8-73, relating to contents of petition for dissolution, certification 1768 resolution recommending dissolution, attachment of resolution to petition, verification of 1769 petition, and fee for filing petition;

1770 (U) Code Section 46-8-75, relating to transfer of copy of petition from Secretary of State 1771 to commission;

1772 (V) Code Section 46-8-78, relating to order of Secretary of State accepting surrender of 1773 charter and franchises and dissolving corporation and recording of petition, certificate of 1774 approval, certificate of publication, and order by Secretary of State; 1775 (W) Code Section 46-8-196, relating to use of standard signs for highway crossings and 1776 for advertising or other purposes, mutilation, destruction, and defacement of standard signs, 1777 and removal of unauthorized signs by county authorities; and 1778 (X) Code Section 46-8A-2, relating to line or system permit required regarding rapid rail 1779 passenger service.

1780 SECTION 47.

1781 Reserved.

1782 SECTION 48.

1783 Title 48 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to revenue and taxation, is 1784 amended in:

1785 (1) Code Section 48-5-7.6, relating to preferential assessment for brownfield property, in 1786 division (h)(1)(B)(iii), by redesignating the second subdivision (II) as subdivision (III). 1787 (2) Code Section 48-5-28, relating to priority of taxes over other claims and superiority of 1788 security deed, in subsection (a), by replacing "Code Section 53-7-91," with "Code 1789 Section 53-7-40,".

1790 (3) Code Section 48-5-164, relating to duties of successor tax collector or tax commissioner 1791 as to performing uncompleted duties of outgoing collector or commissioner, distribution of 1792 commissions, and liability, by revising subsection (b) as follows: 1793 "(b)(1) Each tax collector or tax commissioner to whom a list is furnished as provided in 1794 subsection (a) of this Code section shall pay to the outgoing tax collector or tax 1795 commissioner, as the taxes are collected, one-half of the commissions and retain for his or 1796 her services one-half, the commissions to be calculated as if the amounts had been 1797 collected by the outgoing tax collector or tax commissioner. 1798 (2) Reserved."

1799 (4) Code Section 48-7-27, relating to computation of taxable net income, at the end of 1800 subparagraph (a)(3)(A), by replacing the period with a semicolon, in paragraph (a)(3), by 1801 deleting the subparagraph (A) designation and by redesignating subparagraph (B) as 1802 paragraph (a)(3.1), and in division (a)(5)(D)(i), by deleting "or" at the end. 1803 (5) Code Section 48-7-29.20, relating to tax credits for contributions to rural hospital 1804 organizations, in subparagraph (e)(2)(E), by replacing "section including" with "section, 1805 including" and in subparagraph (e)(4)(B), by replacing "their approval" with "such approval". 1806 (6) Code Section 48-7-40.22, relating to tax credits for business enterprises that purchase or 1807 lease a motor vehicle to provide transportation for employees, in the table in subsection (b), 1808 under Tier 2, Credit amount per vehicle, by replacing "2000.00" with "2,000.00". 1809 (7) Code Section 48-7-40.26, relating to tax credits for film, gaming, video, or digital 1810 production, in the undesignated text at the end of subparagraph (c)(2)(B), by replacing 1811 "paragraph" with "subparagraph".

1812 (8) Code Section 48-7-40.30, relating to tax credits for certain qualified investments for 1813 limited period of time, in paragraph (f)(5), by replacing "transferrable" with "transferable". 1814 (9) Code Section 48-8-2, relating to definitions regarding state sales and use tax, in the 1815 introductory language of paragraph (39), by replacing "voice over internet protocol" with 1816 "Voice over Internet Protocol".

1817 (10) Code Section 48-8-15, relating to ratification of Executive Order on temporary and 1818 partial exemption for liquid propane gas commodity sold and delivered for residential 1819 heating, in subsection (e), by replacing "Chapter 10" with "Chapter 1". 1820 (11) Code Section 48-13-133, relating to promulgation of rules and regulations regarding 1821 taxation of consumer fireworks, by replacing "this Code section" with "this article". 1822 SECTION 49.

1823 Title 49 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to social services, is amended 1824 in:

1825 (1) Code Section 49-3-6, relating to functions of county department of family and children 1826 services, in paragraph (a)(4), by replacing "Council of Accountability Courts" with "Council 1827 of Accountability Court Judges" and in subsection (b), by replacing "Board of Human 1828 Services," with "board,".

1829 (2) Code Section 49-4-159.2, relating to remote maternal health clinical services, reporting, 1830 and termination, in subparagraph (a)(1)(A), by replacing "transmitting" with "transmit" and 1831 in subsection (c), by replacing "repealed" with "repealed and reserved". 1832 (3) Code Section 49-5-8, relating to powers and duties of the Department of Human 1833 Services, in subparagraph (a)(11)(A), by replacing "with, a photograph of himself or herself, 1834 provided however, that if" with "with a photograph of himself or herself; provided, however, 1835 that, if" and in subparagraph (a)(11)(B), by replacing "a personal identification card" with 1836 "an identification card" each time the phrase appears.

1837 SECTION 50.

1838 Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to state government, is amended 1839 in:

1840 (1) Article 2 of Chapter 8, relating to regional commissions, by deleting the Part 1 1841 designation.

1842 (2) Code Section 50-18-160, relating to individuals or nonprofit organizations, in 1843 paragraph (a)(1), by replacing "Code, has" with "Code or has" and in paragraph (b)(2), by 1844 replacing "in possession" with "in the possession".

1845 (3) Code Section 50-36-4, relating to submission of annual immigration compliance report, 1846 creation of reporting system, contents of reports, and annual review, in paragraph (d)(7), by 1847 replacing "42-4-11.4, 42-4-11.5," with "42-1-11.4, 42-1-11.5,". 1848 SECTION 51.

1849 Title 51 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to torts, is amended in: 1850 (1) Code Section 51-1-22.1, relating to liability of an operator of a vessel under certain 1851 conditions, in paragraph (c)(1), by replacing "$1,000,000.00" with "$1 million". 1852 SECTION 52.

1853 Reserved.

1854 SECTION 53.

1855 Reserved.

1856 SECTION 54.

1857 (a) In accordance with subsection (c) of Code Section 28-9-5, the following portions 1858 included in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated published under authority of the state by 1859 LEXIS Publishing, including all 2024 supplements and revised volumes thereof, are hereby 1860 reenacted, and such reenactment shall have the effect of adopting and giving force and effect 1861 of law to the following portions as contained in such supplements and volumes: 1862 (1) Statutory text; and

1863 (2) Arrangement and numbering system, including, but not limited to, title, chapter, article, 1864 part, subpart, Code section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, division, and subdivision 1865 numbers and designations.

1866 (b) The following portions included in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated published 1867 under authority of the state by LEXIS Publishing, including all 2024 supplements and revised 1868 volumes thereof, are specifically not enacted or reenacted, have no binding authority, bear 1869 no weight or effect, and shall not be construed to have the imprimatur of the General 1870 Assembly or the State of Georgia:

1871 (1) Case annotations;

1872 (2) Research references, including, but not limited to:

1873 (A) Law reviews;

1874 (B) Collateral references to secondary sources;

1875 (C) Opinions of the Georgia Attorney General;

1876 (D) Advisory opinions of the State Bar; and

1877 (E) Cross-references;

1878 (3) Captions;

1879 (4) Catchlines;

1880 (5) Headings;

1881 (6) Title and chapter analyses;

1882 (7) History lines;

1883 (8) Repeal lines;

1884 (9) Editorial notes;

1885 (10) Amendment notes;

1886 (11) Code Commission notes;

1887 (12) Effective date notes;

1888 (13) Tables;

1889 (14) User's Guide;

1890 (15) General Index;

1891 (16) Volume indices;

1892 (17) Indices related to local and special laws;

1893 (18) Conversion tables;

1894 (19) The United States Constitution;

1895 (20) The Georgia Constitution;

1896 (21) Rules and regulations of state agencies, departments, boards, commissions, or other 1897 entities;

1898 (22) Material in brackets or parentheses and editorial, delayed effective date, effect of 1899 amendment, or other similar notes within the text of a Code section which have been added 1900 by the publisher in order to explain or to prevent a misapprehension concerning the 1901 contents of the Code section; and

1902 (23) Any other matter published in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated which is not 1903 included in subsection (a) of this section.

1904 (c) The reenactment of the portions of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated by 1905 subsection (a) of this section shall not affect, supersede, or repeal any Act of the General 1906 Assembly, or portion thereof, which is not contained in the Official Code of Georgia 1907 Annotated and which was not repealed by Code Section 1-1-10, specifically including those 1908 Acts which have not yet been included in the text of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated 1909 because of effective dates which extend beyond the effective date of the Code or the 1910 publication date of the Code or its supplements. This subsection shall not apply to any Act 1911 or portion thereof which was superseded due to conflict as provided by subsection (b) of 1912 Code Section 28-9-5.

1913 (d) The provisions contained in Sections 1 through 53 of this Act and in the other Acts 1914 enacted at the 2024 regular session of the General Assembly of Georgia shall supersede the 1915 provisions of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated ratified and reenacted by subsection (a) 1916 of this section.

1917 (e) In the event of a conflict between a provision in Sections 1 through 53 of this Act and 1918 a provision of another Act enacted at the 2025 regular session of the General Assembly, the 1919 provision of such other Act shall control over the conflicting provision in Sections 1 1920 through 53 of this Act to the extent of such conflict.

1921 SECTION 55.

1922 All laws and parts of laws in conflict with this Act are repealed.