Sesión en el pleno de la Cámara de Representantes, 20 de febrero de 2026 (día legislativo 22)

Transcripción

415 turnos. Seleccione un tiempo para reproducir ese momento del video.

1. 0:15:47

   Good morning. All members, all members will please come to the floor. Because the hour convening having arrived, all members will please come to the floor and take their seats. Mr. Clerk, will you ring the bell?

2. 0:16:57

   All members, all members, please come to the floor.

3. 0:17:04

   We're going to have the morning roll call. All members present in the chamber will please vote green to signify your presence in this chamber, and Mr. Clerk will unlock the machines.

4. 0:18:02

   Have all members voted?

5. 0:18:07

   Have all members voted? If so,

6. 0:18:13

   Mr. Clerk

7. 0:18:17

   will lock the machine.

8. 0:18:22

   Doorkeepers, please close the doors and keep them closed. As is our custom, we'll, we will begin our day with scripture reading and prayer by our chaplain, after which we will pledge allegiance to the flag of our country. Our chaplain this morning is brought to us by the gentleman from the 15th House District, Representative Matthew Gambill. Gonna bring his friend and his lovely wife to bring our devotion today, and we appreciate them being here with us.

9. 0:18:57

   Uh, Representative Gambill, you're recognized to introduce our chaplain.

10. 0:19:05

    Well, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, members. It's good to be with you today, and, uh, I have the honor to introduce our chaplain today, uh, Dr. Kyle Walker. He is the senior pastor of Cartersville First Baptist Church, and we're honored to have his wife Lauren with us today. Lauren, please just stand up so we can see you.

11. 0:19:29

    Um, they are the proud parents of Taylor, Libby, and Clay. And, uh, I have been able to watch Kyle work in our community, uh, since he took Cartersville First Baptist Church several years ago, and it has truly been a blessing. It's the church where my brother goes to church at. And, um, Kyle and I, I have had many opportunities to work together and talk about issues that have affected our community, sometimes some really tough issues that we've needed to work together on. And I can honestly say that he's been a great friend and an ally and somebody that I can call on and seek advice.

12. 0:20:04

    And, uh, and not only that, just a, just a brother in Christ. But, um, he's a wonderful guy. We're in Rotary together, uh, Bartow County Rotary, and if you ask our Rotary, uh, officers, they would tell you that they've probably put out a be on the lookout for us, 'cause we haven't been there in a while. But would y'all please welcome Dr. Kyle Walker to share the word with us this morning?

13. 0:20:29

    Thank you, brother.

14. 0:20:29

    Thank you, sir.

15. 0:20:29

    Appreciate you.

16. 0:20:33

    Well, good morning, Mr. Speaker, members of the House, Representative Gambill, and guests. What a privilege it is to be here with you this morning and an honor to have my bride Lauren with me. What is the world's greatest problem? Genesis 15:6 may not seem like a solution to the answer of that problem, but it says this, "And he, Abram, believed the Lord, and He," that is God, "counted it to him as righteousness." This verse of scripture stands as a North Star in the Bible.

17. 0:21:12

    It rises as an Everest among the scriptures. It even plunges the deepest depths of the meaning of the Word of God. Why is that? Because it speaks the message of scripture in a sentence. It hits at the very heart of salvation. It answers the question of all questions. How is it that a human being can be made right with God? Again, I ask, what is the world's greatest problem? The answer is not being in a right relationship with God.

18. 0:21:46

    In a word, that's called lostness. Perhaps John Newton so eloquently wrote it best in 1779 when he said, "I once was lost but now I'm found." Thus the question of all questions is how could an unrighteous, sinful human being ever be made right with God? But let's be honest, that question is often so lost on us, is it not? That question is dismissed as irrelevant as an ancient relic of religion irrelevant for modern man.

19. 0:22:17

    And yet if I could just be honest with you this morning, I've always found the belief that human beings are good and not sinful before a holy God to be overwhelmingly lacking in objective evidence. Could we be honest and say if you were to enter most homes, even in our own country, you would find brokenness somewhere. If you were to enter our schools, you'll find security there to prevent the greatest of tragedies. If you were to inspect our institutions, would you not find any level of corruption somewhere even in the faith community?

20. 0:22:54

    If you were to look around the globe at large, do you find justice and righteousness reigning? Who are we fooling? Certainly not God, none but ourselves that we would think ourselves natively and naturally righteous before God. No wonder Woody Allen said the following when he was asked, "Woody, if there was a God, what would you want Him to say to you?" To which Mr. Allen responded, "I would want Him to say to me, 'You are forgiven.'" The Bible says a right relationship with God comes by faith in God's Son, Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life.

21. 0:23:35

    What has Jesus done for you and for me? Number one, Jesus died for our sin in our place. Jesus lived a sinless life in our place, and Jesus rose victorious over the grave in our place. Friends, the Bible does not say all who live a good life will be saved. The Bible does not say all who contribute to the good of society will be saved. Friends, what the Bible says is all who call on the name of the Lord will be saved.

22. 0:24:11

    The Bible says if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. You will be made right with God. You will be counted righteous. You will have gone from lost to found. My greatest prayer for each of you as leaders of our great state of Georgia and our great nation is that you would know beyond anything else that you know that you've been found.

23. 0:24:41

    Would you rise and join me in prayer this morning?

24. 0:24:51

    1 Timothy chapter 2 verse 1 through 6 reads, "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, and intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all." Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus I wanna pray for these men and women gathered here today who serve our great state and our nation.

25. 0:25:33

    I pray that each one would truly stand in a right relationship with you by faith in your Son, Jesus. I pray that for any that have never been found by faith in Him, that they be found even today by your grace. Father, I wanna ask that you give them wisdom to lead and make decisions that would honor and bless and protect the people of Georgia. I ask that you would provide them with your protection, your strength, you would uphold them. And Father, that as they work to serve, that you would guide and support and strengthen and lead them.

26. 0:26:06

    God, I wanna pray for their marriages. I pray for their spouses. I pray for their children and grandchildren. I pray their marriages would prosper. I pray their children and grandchildren would prosper. I pray that you would bless them as fathers and mothers and grandparents. And as they serve the public, God, would you even cause their personal lives to be overwhelmed with your grace. Lead them as they lead Georgia. Bless them as they seek to bless Georgia. And Father, I pray for your will to be done in Georgia and even in this session today as it is in heaven.

27. 0:26:37

    In Jesus' name I pray, amen. Amen. Would you now join me for the Pledge of Allegiance? I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Awesome. Thank you very much.

28. 0:26:59

    Thank you, sir.

29. 0:27:00

    Don't go anywhere. We're gonna take a photo.

30. 0:27:03

    Doorkeepers, you may unlock the doors. Members, you may, uh, join Brother Kyle and Lauren in the South Ante Room and thank them for being here with us today. We do appreciate it. And thanks for that message as well.

31. 0:28:14

    Members, our doctor of the day is brought to us by Representative, Representative Tangie Herring, Herring, and that's, uh, Dr. Keisha Collin- Calins, Calins. Dr. Calins, thank you for being here. Thank you for serving this House. Members, if you need Dr. Calins, you know where she is. I hope you don't need her.

32. 0:28:40

    Now I recognize the Chairman of the Committee on Information and, and Audits. Chairman Hilton, you're recognized.

33. 0:28:47

    Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Your Committee on Information and Audits has read the journal of the previous legislative day and found it to be correct. And if I may, Mr. Speaker, my daughter has her first middle school lacrosse game this weekend. Let's go Lady Wolves.

34. 0:29:00

    Yeah.

35. 0:29:00

    Wesleyan Lady Wolves. Lacrosse. Wolves.

36. 0:29:06

    Lady Wolves, I'm sorry. Good luck. I bet she'll do great. Chairman Hilton, the Chairman of the Committee on Information and Audits reports that the journal of the previous legislative day has been found, been read and found to be correct. Is there objection to dispense with a reading of the journal?

37. 0:29:28

    Hearing none, the reading of the journal is dispensed with. Is there any objection to the confirmation of the journal?

38. 0:29:32

    Hearing none, the journal is confirmed. Mr. Clerk, will you read the resolution establishing the order of business for the day?

39. 0:29:40

    Representative Efstration of the 104th, Moose, Folamby establishes the order of business during the first part of the period. Unanimous consent. Introduction of bills and resolutions. First reading and reference of House bills and resolutions. Second reading of bos- of resolut- of bills and resolutions. Reports of standing committees. Third reading and passage of uncontested local bills and resolutions. Morning orders.

40. 0:30:06

    Is there any objection to adopt, adoption of the resolution establishing the order of business for the day? Hearing none, the resolution is adopted.

41. 0:30:22

    First reading of bills and resolutions, Mr. Clerk will read.

42. 0:30:27

    House Bill 1384 by Representative Scoggins of the 14th, Efstration of the 104th, Burchett of the 176th, Kelly of the 16th, Cannon of the 172nd. The bill will be titled an act to amend Code Section 36-34-2 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to powers relating to administration of government.

43. 0:30:45

    Governmental Affairs.

44. 0:30:46

    House Bill 1385 by Representative Chastain of the 7th, Lumsden of the 12th, Cox of the 28th, Barrett of the 24th, Gunter of the 8th and others. The bill will be titled an act to amend ch- Title 8 and 25 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to buildings and housing and fire protection and safety.

45. 0:31:03

    Regulated Industries.

46. 0:31:05

    House Bill 1386 by Representative Dawson of the 65th, Berry of the 56th, Jones of the 60th, Glaze of the 67th, McQueen of the 61st and others. The bill will be titled an act to amend Chapter 62 with Title 36 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to development authorities.

47. 0:31:22

    Governmental Affairs.

48. 0:31:23

    House Bill 1387 by Representative Gullett of the 19th, Momtahan of the 17th and Thomas of the 21st. The bill will be titled an act to amend Art 2, Chapter 5 of Title 48 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to property tax exemptions and deferral.

49. 0:31:39

    Ways and Means.

50. 0:31:41

    House Bill 1388 by Representative Santos of the 117th, Washburn of the 144th, Ridley of the 22nd, Mitchell of the 88th, Cameron of the 1st. The bill will be titled an act to amend Part 2 of Article 1 of Chapter 2 of Title 8 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to state building, plumbing and electrical codes.

51. 0:31:59

    Governmental Affairs.

52. 0:32:01

    House Bill 1389 by Representative Santos of the 117th, Mitchell of the 88th, Gilliard of the 162nd, Fry of the 122nd, Burnough of the 77th and others. The bill will be titled an act to amend Article 3 of Chapter 7 of Title 44 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to dispossessory proceedings.

53. 0:32:20

    Judiciary.

54. 0:32:22

    House Bill 1390 by Representative Willis of the 55th, Schofield of the 63rd, McQueen of the 61st, Berry of the 56th, Holland of the 54th and others. The bill will be titled an act to amend Code Section 46-390.1 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to re- reckless stunt driving.

55. 0:32:41

    Judiciary Non-Civil.

56. 0:32:42

    House Bill 1391 by Representative Fleming of the 114th, Hitchens of the 161st, Crowe of the 118th, Lumsden of the 12th, Mathiak of the 82nd and others. The bill will be titled an act to amend Code Section 42-86 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to license plates promoting or supporting certain agencies.

57. 0:33:02

    Motor Vehicles.

58. 0:33:04

    House Bill 1392 by Representative Santos of the 117th, Griffin of the 149th, Stinson of the 150th. The bill will be titled an act to amend Code Section 43-18-70 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated re- relating to the requirement to only practice at licensed funerals establishments.

59. 0:33:22

    Regulated Industries.

60. 0:33:24

    House Bill 1395 by Representative Mathis of the 133rd, Crowe of the 118th, Washburn of the 144th, Barrett of the 24th, Powell of the 33rd and others. The bill will be titled an act to amend Chapter 5 of Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to driver's licenses.

61. 0:33:41

    Judiciary Non-Civil.

62. 0:33:43

    House Bill 1396 by Representative Efstration of the 104th. The bill will be titled an act to amend Article 1 of Chapter 8 of Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to general provisions relative to the Department of Community Affairs.

63. 0:33:58

    Governmental Affairs.

64. 0:33:59

    House Bill 1397 by Representative Cooper of the 45th, Fry of the 122nd, Reeves of the 99th, Hagan of the 156th and Roberts of the 52nd. The bill will be titled an act to amend Article 4 of Chapter 5 of Title 17 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to investigating sexual assault. Judiciary Non-Civil. House Bill 1398 by Representative Cooper of the 45th, Franklin of the 140th, 60th, Frye of the 120- Mr. Clerk, suspend just for a moment.

65. 0:34:34

    Mr. Clerk, 1397 needs to go to Judiciary instead of Non-Civil. Judiciary.

66. 0:34:44

    House Bill 1398 by Representative Cooper of the 45th, Franklin of the 160th, Frye of the 122nd, Hagan of the 156th, Carpenter IV and others. Bill be titled, "An Act to amend Article 2, Chapter 4, Title 17 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to arrests by law enforcement officers." Judiciary Non-Civil. House Bill 1399 by Representative Gilliard of the 162nd, Tran of the 80th, Adesanya of the 110th. Bill be titled, "An Act to amend Chapter 1 of Title 10 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to selling and other trade practices." Technology and Infrastructure Innovation.

67. 0:35:23

    House Bill 1400 by Representative Gilliard of the 162nd, Tran of the 80th, Adesanya of the 110th. Bill be titled, "An Act to amend Chapter 1 of Title 10 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to selling and other trade practices." Agriculture and Consumer Affairs. House Bill 1401 by Representative Gissler of the 121st, Tran of the 80th, Sanchez of the 42nd, Bell of the 75th, Park of the 107th and others. Bill be titled, "An Act to amend Article 1 of Chapter 2A of Title 31 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to general provisions regarding the Department of Public Health."

68. 0:36:00

    Public and Community Health. House Bill 1402 by Representative Hagan of the 156th, Burns of the 159th, Erwin of the 32nd, Donatucci of the 105th, Ballard of the 147th and others. Bill be titled, "An Act to amend Part 3 of Article 16 of Chapter 2 of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to the health of students." Education. House Resolution 1415 by Representative Prince of the 132nd. A resolution honoring the life of Master Sergeant Gary I.

69. 0:36:31

    Gordon and dedicating a road in his memory. Transportation. House Resolution 1416 by Representative Dickey of the 134th, Meeks of the 178th, O'Steen of the 169th, Ford of the 170th, Corbett of the 174th and others. Resolution creating the Joint Study Committee on Generational Sustainability of Family Farms. Agriculture and Consumer Affairs. House Resolution 1417 by Representative Wade of the 9th, Evans of the 57th, Smith of the 18th, Gaines of the 120th, Gunner of the 8th and others.

70. 0:37:05

    A resolution recognizing February 26, 2026 as Dale Murphy Day and urging Major League Baseball Hall of Fame Committee to induct Dale Murphy into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. That's overdue. Special Rules. House Resolution 1418 by Representative Washburn of the 144th, Dickey of the 134th, Carpenter IV, Corbett of the 174th, Williams of the 148th and others. A resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution so as to impose a 1% statewide sales and use tax.

71. 0:37:41

    Ways and Means. House Resolution 1419 by Representative Martin of the 49th, Hugley of the 141st, Jones of the 47th and Cooper of the 45th. A resolution recognizing February 2026 as Turner Syndrome Awareness Month in Georgia. Special Rules. That completes first readers.

72. 0:38:46

    Second reading of bills and resolutions. The clerk will read. House Bill 1354 by Representative Kelly of the 16th, Hatchett of the 155th, Newton of the 127th. A bill to amend the Surprise Billing Consumer Protection Act. House Bill 1355 by Representative Werkheiser of the 157th. A bill relating to workers' compensation. House Bill 1356 by Representative Stinson of the 150th. A bill to amend an act creating a Board of Commissioners of Macon County. House Bill 1357 by Representative Franklin of the 160th, Burns of the 159th, and Parrish of the 158th.

73. 0:39:19

    A bill to amend an act creating the Bulloch County Public Facilities Authority providing for the appointment of members of the authority. House Bill 1358 by Representative LaHood of the 175th. A bill to authorize the assessment and collection of a technology fee by the Magistrate Court of Brooks County. House Bill 1359 by Representative LaHood of the 175th. A bill to amend an act to create a Board of Elections and Registration for Brooks County. House Bill 1361 by Representative Kelly of the 16th, Hawkins of the 27th, Dempsey of the 13th. A bill relating to pharmacists and pharmacies.

74. 0:39:50

    House Bill 1362 by Representative Ridley of the 6th, Rhodes of the 124th, Brashad of the 176th, Smith of the 18th, Corbett of the 174th and others. A bill relating to general provisions for eligibility and qualifications for office. House Bill 1363 by Representative Silcox of the 53rd, Efstration of the 104th, Fleming of the 114th, Panitch of the 51st, and Carson of the 46th. A bill relating to education. House Bill 1364 by Representative Leverett of the 123rd, Scoggins of the 14th, Kelly of the 16th, Momtahan of the 17th, and Gambill of the 15th.

75. 0:40:23

    A bill relating to miscellaneous provisions relative to timeshare projects and programs.

76. 0:40:28

    House Bill 1365 by Representative Jones of the 25th, Silcox of the 53rd, Martin of the 49th, Jones of the 47th, Evans of the 57th, and others. A bill relating to the number of judges of superior courts. House Bill 1366 by Representative Carter of the 93rd, Smith of the 41st, Park of the 107th, Evans of the 57th, Glaize of the 67th, and others. A bill relating to the Georgia Student Finance Authority. House Bill 1367 by Representative Roberts of the 52nd, Bazemore of the 69th, Silcox of the 53rd, Cannon of the 58th, Au of the 50th, and others.

77. 0:41:00

    A bill to amend an act creating one or more community improvement districts in unincorporated Fulton County. House Bill 1368 by Representative Cooper of the 45th, Hatchett of the 155th, Stevens of the 164th, Dempsey of the 13th, and Reese of the 140th. A bill relating to mental health. House Bill 1369 by Representative Clark of the 100th, Bonner of the 73rd, Barrett of the 24th, Ridley of the 22nd, Horner of the 3rd, and others. A bill relating to laws and statutes. House Bill 1371 by Representative Ridley of the 22nd, Carpenter of the 4th, Horner of the 3rd, Kelly of the 16th, and Scoggins of the 14th.

78. 0:41:35

    A bill relating to income taxes. House Bill 1372 by Representative Ridley of the 22nd, Ridley of the 6th, Horner of the 3rd, Thomas of the 21st, Tarvin of the 2nd, and others. A bill relating to prohibiting the acquisition of possessory interests in certain land by certain foreign persons and entities. House Bill 1373 by Representative Ridley of the 22nd, Ridley of the 6th, Horner of the 3rd, Douglas of the 78th. A bill relating to gambling. House Bill 1374 by Representative Hawkins of the 27th, Stevens of the 164th, Jaspers of the 11th, Newton of the 127th, Clark of the 100th.

79. 0:42:09

    A bill relating to insurance. House Bill 1375 by Representative Hawkins of the 27th, Hong of the 103rd, Clark of the 100th, Dunahoo of the 31st, and Dubnik of the 29th. A bill to amend an act creating the State Court of Hall County. House Bill 1376 by Representative Flournoy of the 74th, Lupton of the 83rd, Ali of the 106th, Baker of the 64th, and Beckles of the 96th. A bill relating to the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency.

80. 0:42:36

    House Bill 1377 by Representative Carson of the 46th, Efstration of the 104th, Ehrhart of the 36th, Parsons of the 44th, Donatucci of the 105th, and others. A bill relating to special districts and transportation purposes sales and use tax. House Bill 1378 by Representative Carper of the 93rd, Stinson of the 150th, Donatucci of the 105th, Evans of the 57th, Glaize of the 67th, and others. A bill to amend the Georgia Promise Scholarship Act. House Bill 1379 by Representative Gaines of the 120th, Panitch of the 51st, Carson of the 46th, Cox of the 28th, and Fleming of the 114th.

81. 0:43:09

    A bill relating to education. House Bill 1380 by Representative Miles of the 126th, Neal of the 79th, Hitchens of the 161st, Powell of the 33rd, Prince of the 132nd, and others. A bill relating to license plates for persons with disabilities. House Bill 1381 by Representative Park of the 107th, Jones of the 25th, Gisler of the 121st, Herring of the 145th, Camp of the 135th, and others. A bill relating to integrated resource planning. House Bill 1382 by Representative Gisler of the 121st, Bonner of the 73rd, Jackson of the 68th, Scott of the 76th, and Davis of the 87th.

82. 0:43:43

    A bill relating to education. House Bill 1383 by Representative Smith of the 18th. A bill relating to air quality. House Bill 1393 by Representative Werkheiser of the 157th, OSteen of the 169th, Hagan of the 156th, Burchett of the 176th, Parrish of the 158th, and others. A bill relating to county and municipal hospital authorities. House Bill 1394 by Representative Jackson of the 128th, Griffin of the 149th, Sampson of the 153rd, Lewis-Ward of the 115th, Williams of the 168th, and others. A bill relating to powers, duties, authorities of the Department of Community Affairs and the Historic Preservation Grant Program.

83. 0:44:18

    House Resolution 1391 by Representative Corbett of the 174th, Ridley of the 6th, Rhodes of the 124th, Williams of the 148th, LaHood of the 175th. A resolution honoring the life of Mrs. Edna Surman Sessoms and dedicating a bridge in her memory. House Resolution 1393 by Representative Miles of the 126th, Huguley of the 141st, Williams of the 168th, Buckner of the 137th, Greene of the 154th, and others. A resolution creating the House Study Committee on Rural Hospitals. Senate Bill 432 by Senator Walker of the 20th, Andreae of the 31st, Burns of the 23rd, Hickman of the 4th, Jones of the 22nd, and others.

84. 0:44:51

    A bill relating to education. House Bill 446 by Representatives Dixon of the 45th, Hickman of the 4th, Ginn of the 47th, Gooch of the 51st, Hillary of the 19th, and others. A bill relating to student scholarship organizations. Senate Bill 462 by Senators Deal of the 48th, Andreae of the 31st, Watson of the 1st, Heral of the 40th, Hatchett of the 50th, and others. A bill to amend the Surprise Billing Consumer Protection Act through second readers. Outstanding.

85. 0:45:50

    Reports of standing committees Mr. Clerk will read.

86. 0:45:54

    Representative Williams of the 148th District, chairman of the Committee on Banks and Banking, submitted the following report: "Mr. Speaker, your committee on Banks and Banking has had under its consideration the following bills of the House. Has instructed me to report the same back to the House with the following recommendations. House Bill 1112, DO PASS by committee substitute. House Bill 1272, DO PASS by committee substitute. Respectfully submitted, Representative Williams of the 148th District, Chairman." Representative Ron Stephens of the 164th District, chairman of the Committee on Economic Development and Tourism, submitted the following report: "Mr.

87. 0:46:25

    Speaker, your committee on Economic Development and Tourism has had under its consideration the following bill of the House. Has instructed me to report the same back to the House with the following recommendation. House Bill 490, DO PASS."

88. 0:46:39

    Do pass by committee substitute respectfully submitted Representative Gambill of the 15th, Vice Chairman.

89. 0:46:47

    Representative Chris Erwin of the 32nd District, Chairman of the Committee on Education submitted the following report. Mr. Speaker, Committee on Education's had under its consideration the following bills of the House and instructed me to report the same back to the House with the following recommendations. House Bill 1259, do pass by substitute. House Bill 1107, do pass by substitute. House Bill 1164, do pass by substitute. House Bill 1123, do pass. House Bill 1030, do pass by substitute. House Bill 1220, do pass by substitute. House Bill 1218, do pass.

90. 0:47:18

    House Bill 634, do pass. Respectfully submitted, Representative Chris Erwin of the 32nd District, Chairman. Representative Lauren McDonald of the 26th District, Chairman of the Committee on Intergovernmental Coordination and Local submitted the following report. Mr. Speaker, your Committee on Intergovernmental Coordination and Locals had under its consideration the following bills of the House and Senate and has instructed me to report the same back to the House with the following recommendations. House Bill 1120, do pass. House Bill 1213, do pass. House Bill 1297, do pass. Senate Bill 351, do pass.

91. 0:47:50

    Respectfully submitted, Representative Lauren McDonald of the 26th District, Chairman. Representative Gunner of the 8th District, Chairman of the Committee on Judiciary submitted the following report. Mr. Speaker, your Committee on Judiciary has had under its consideration the following bills of the House and has instructed me to report the same back to the House with the following recommendations. House Bill 1021, do pass. House Bill 1028, do pass by committee substitute. House Bill 1042, do pass by committee substitute. Respectfully submitted, Representative Gunner of the 8th District, Chairman.

92. 0:48:21

    Representative Rick Jasperse of the 11th District, Chairman of the Committee on Transportation submitted the following report. Mr. Speaker, your Committee on Transportation has had under its consideration the following bills of the House and has instructed me to report the same back to the House with the following recommendations. House Bill 1137, do pass. House Bill 1277, do pass by committee substitute. Respectfully submitted, Representative Rick Jasperse of the 11th District, Chairman.

93. 0:48:47

    That completes the reading of the reports of standing committees.

94. 0:49:21

    Do we have it?

95. 0:49:24

    Very good.

96. 0:49:32

    That's where it has to be.

97. 0:49:36

    If we don't put it there, we're gonna move it, right? Right.

98. 0:56:05

    Thank you, Mr. Clerk. Moving on to the local calendar.

99. 0:56:58

    Members, House will come to order. There's one bill on the local calendar that, calendar that is agree, disagree.

100. 0:57:12

     And to add to that, having received the requisite number of signatures required, the House delegation wishes to agree to the Senate substitute to the House bill. Third reading and passage of uncontested local bills. If there's no objection, we will vote on the local calendar as a whole with a recorded vote. Hearing none, it is so ordered.

101. 0:57:36

     Mr. Clerk will read the local calendar. House Bill 1120 by Representative Gunner of the 8th, Union County. House Bill 1213 by Representative Cummings of the 39th, City of Mableton. House Bill 1297 by Representative Meeks of the 178th, Pierce County. Senate Bill 351 by Senator Walker of the 20th, Treutlen County. House Bill 1029 agreeing to the Senate substitute by Representative Thomas of the 21st, City of Holly Springs.

102. 0:58:23

     So members, we'll be voting on House Bill 1029. We will be agreeing to the Senate substitute by Representative Thomas of the 21st about the City of Holly Springs. House Bill 1029 was re- revises the city council dis- districts and boundaries and the local, uh, legislation with the Senate changes. We agree to the Senate substitute as amended.

103. 0:58:47

     But it w- and it does requi- as a requisite for the House delegation, and that has been attained, the signature of the House delegation. Is there any objection to previous question being ordered on the local calendar? Hearing none, the previous question is ordered. Shall these bills now pass? All those in favor of the passage of the bills on the local calendar will vote yes. All those opposed will vote no. And Mr. Clerk will unlock the machines.

104. 0:59:40

     Have all members voted?

105. 0:59:46

     All members voted?

106. 1:00:02

     All members voted? If so, Mr. Clerk will lock the machines. On the passage of the local calendar, the yays are, are 162, the nays are zero. These bills, having rec- received the requisite constitutional majority, are therefore passed.

107. 1:00:50

     Members, we'll move on to morning orders.

108. 1:00:56

     Representative San- Representative Sanchez.

109. 1:01:10

     Members, we'll have our moment in Black history this morning. Representative Sanchez will present. And up to two minutes, my friend.

110. 1:01:18

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

111. 1:01:19

     The representative's recognized. Give the gentleman the will of your attention, please.

112. 1:01:23

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, I rise for our moment in Black history.

113. 1:01:29

     Member will suspend.

114. 1:01:33

     Let's get a few of these conversations moved out into the antechamber.

115. 1:01:40

     Gentleman's recognized.

116. 1:01:41

     Thank you. Today, I rise for our moment in Black history. Black history doesn't just include those who are no longer with us, but also honoring living legacies who still are making history for our communities today. I'm honored to recognize Luis Negron Sr., a bridge builder for youth across our city. As a proud Afro-Latino and former executive director of 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Luis has shown us what it means to honor every part of our identity while using it to bring people together and inspire others to do the same.

117. 1:02:15

     Through his leadership, the 100 Black Men of Atlanta strengthen our communities by investing in our youth, supporting education, and engaging in conversations surrounding the economic, social, and health issues that shape people's lives. Under his guidance, the organization not only met the moment, but also helped define what it means to be an authentic leader for young people in our state. Luis Negron's work reminds us that when communities from all walks of life can come together, our collective impact is greater. Today, his legacy is reflected in the students uplifted, the families supported, and the future leaders inspired to create positive change across our state, a change we all know is possible.

118. 1:02:55

     Our state is stronger because of Luis's legacy and commitment. Thank you for, Luis, for your leadership. And thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield the will.

119. 1:03:04

     Thank you, Representative San- Representative Sanchez.

120. 1:03:09

     Chairman LaHood and the Lowndes County delegation.

121. 1:03:18

     Chairman LaHood and the Lowndes County delegation.

122. 1:03:22

     Burchett.

123. 1:03:23

     Other members of the delegation. Members, I'm gonna ask you to rise

124. 1:03:30

     as the Lowndes County delegation.

125. 1:03:37

     Conversations will cease.

126. 1:03:40

     Thank you, Speaker. Members, uh, this is a sad day in Lowndes County and, uh, across the, the public, uh, public service law enforcement community. Uh, we've lost a young man, uh, on the Hayhara Police Department, uh, police force. Uh, he was, uh, doing his job on the shoulder of I-75, uh, early Thursday morning, little after midnight, and was struck by a, a, a fast-moving vehicle that went off the, the road onto the shoulder, um, killed him instantly.

127. 1:04:12

     Um, Caleb Abney was 26 years old. He was engaged to be married. He had just bought his first home. Um, he was ... He had a history with the, uh, Lowndes County Fire Department and then moved to the Hayhara Police Department. Tragic loss and, um, we're mourning, you know, his loss. And, um, ask that his soul rest in peace, and we ask for you to join us in a moment of silence.

128. 1:04:39

     Thank you.

129. 1:04:44

     Thank you, members. Condolences to his fiancée and to his family. Tragic loss.

130. 1:04:52

     Public safety heroes are underappreciated, but we appreciate him and thanks for his service.

131. 1:05:04

     Members, you're going to have a up to one minute for your morning order, up to one minute for your morning order. Represent- representative Herring, Representative Tangie Herring, you on the floor.

132. 1:05:31

     Representative Beckles, you're on deck. Representative Herring and, and one friend. Lady's recognized.

133. 1:05:40

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and members of the house. Our doctor of the day, Dr. Keisha Renée Callins, is a Georgia-trained obstetrician, gynecologist, public health leader, and passionate advocate for women's health. She serves as the Chief Wellness Officer at Community Healthcare Systems, Incorporated, a federally qualified health center network serving rural and underserved communities across middle Georgia, including Twiggs and Jones County. A champion for rural health, Dr.

134. 1:06:10

     Callins is deeply committed to expanding access to quality care and training for the next generation of physicians to practice in rural communities. Her leadership extends statewide throughout her service of Georgia Composite Medical Board and Sandra Dun- Dunagan Deal Early Language and Literacy Board and the Georgia Maternal and Infant Health Commission. An award-winning physician, published author, and dynamic speaker, Dr. Callins lives her personal mission every day. "While you may not be able to change the entire world, you can change the world of everyone you encounter." Thank you, Dr.

135. 1:06:46

     Callins, for your service. Mr. Speaker, I yield the floor.

136. 1:06:50

     Thank you for that recognition. Great service. Represent- representative Beckles.

137. 1:06:58

     And friends. Lady will suspend for a moment. Give your friends a chance to arrive. They on that slow train from Memphis, I think.

138. 1:07:07

     Right.

139. 1:07:09

     But they're here. The lady is recognized.

140. 1:07:11

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, I rise to recognize an outstanding work of the Ju-

141. 1:07:22

     I rise to, uh, to recognize the outstanding work of the Junior Running Club of Norcross. It's in my district. This incredible organization is doing great things, more than training young athletes. They are building discipline, confidence, and character in our youth. Through, through early morning practice, mentorship, and a commitment to healthy li- healthy living, these students are learning lessons that extend far beyond the track. The Junior Running Club is strengthening families and promoting wellness throughout Norcross, while reminding us all that perseverance and teamwork create champions both on and off the f- course.

142. 1:08:02

     Please join me in welcoming the Junior Running Club of Norcross. Could you stand?

143. 1:08:14

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield the floor.

144. 1:08:18

     Thank you, Representative. Welcome to the people's house. Y'all keep on running. It's good for you. Keep you healthy. So we appreciate y'all, and thanks for being dedicated to something you love and makes you feel good. Representative Berry is recognized for a morning order. Representative Baker, you're on deck.

145. 1:08:38

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Uh, today we are joined by We Care Atlanta, a community violence intervention group here doing work, important work in my district and across the city of Atlanta. Led by Ricky Usher and Crystal Smith, organizations like We Care Atlanta focus on prevention. They build relationships, mentor young people, and help deescalate conflicts, and support families navigating through trauma. Their work is practical, it is community-based, and rooted in trust. And it does not stop in our neighborhoods, it also shows up in our classrooms. When students experience violence and instability, it can affect attendance, focus, and behavior.

146. 1:09:13

     Teachers see the impact every single day. And while schools do incredible work, they can't address these challenges alone. So that's why th- these community violence intervention groups matter. When schools and community organizations can coordinate sharing information, connecting families and to services, and aligning mentorship with academic support, students are more likely to stay engaged. If we want safer communities and stronger schools, we have to recognize how closely connected they are. And this work partners at every level of government. And so I wanna thank We Care Atlanta for the work they do every day for our community. I invite my colleagues to engage with them.

147. 1:09:44

     Please stand. Let me recognize. I invite my colleagues to engage with them today as they're here in the Capitol, and join us in Atlanta delegation meeting. They'll be presenting on their work again in Atlanta delegation meeting. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

148. 1:09:59

     Thank you, Representative. Welcome to the people's house. Okay, Representative Baker, Representative Alexander,

149. 1:10:11

     and a friend.

150. 1:10:13

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise to recognize the Smooth Aslar Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star, Prince Hall Origin Jurisdiction of Georgia, as they celebrate 80 years, that's 80 years, of exemplary service to communities across our state. Since its founding in 1945, the Smooth Aslar Grand Chapter has remained steadfast in its com- commitment to charity, education, mentorship, and community uplift.

151. 1:10:44

     Under the leadership of Grand Worthy Matron Sister Amy Wallace-Hodo, and through the dedicated service of its members, the organization continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of families throughout Georgia. We thank them for their leadership, their legacy, and their continued service, and we are honored to recognize this milestone, this remarkable milestone. If you will please stand, and members please join me in congratulating them on 80 years of service to the state of Georgia. Welcome.

152. 1:11:25

     And as we applaud 80 years of faith, service, and community leadership, we are reminded that services take many forms, from mentorship and education to ensuring that families have food on their tables. With that in mind, Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and commend three extraordinary individuals whose work reminds us that food insecurity is not a talking point, it is a lifeline. As we observe National Canned Food Month in February, we're reminded that for many Georgia families, canned food is not convenience, it's survival.

153. 1:11:59

     Behind every can placed on a pantry shelf is a volunteer, a director, or a community partner who made it possible. In Douglasville, we are pleased to have our leadership, Michael Sizemore, who's the executive director of the Good Samaritan Food Pantry, and from the Atlanta Community Food Bank, we have Megan Middleton, director of government affairs, and Michael Warner, county relationship manager. Members, these people do more than distribute food. Please join me in thanking these remarkable servants for strengthening the fabric of Georgia, one family, one pantry, and one can of food at a time.

154. 1:12:37

     If you'll please rise.

155. 1:12:42

     Welcome to the House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield the floor.

156. 1:12:48

     Thank you, Representative Baker. Representative Baker. Representative Baker, can we have your attention? Hey, food pantries do a great, great service to their neighbors, our people, so thank you for your service and, and helping folks out and making sure they're taken care of. Thank you for that, and thanks for being here.

157. 1:13:23

     And I wanted to make sure I got it right. To the Ashlar Grand Chapter, thank y'all. Stand up again. Let's welcome you back to the House. I wanna make sure we don't... Thank you. We appreciate you ladies being, and everything y'all are doing, so thank you.

158. 1:13:41

     Appreciate your work. Y'all look beautiful, I can tell you that. Glad to have y'all. Chairman Jaspers.

159. 1:13:52

     Gentleman's recognized for a morning order.

160. 1:14:01

     Thank, thank you, Speaker. I have the honor today to honor our broadcasters and television folks. Now, since all of us have to run for re-election every other year, I hope that you use these people to get your message out in your community, 'cause they're great news people and paper, the, the newspaper people are here also today. And we're honoring them. They're downstairs listening to a number of our members, and so, but as you see them, greet them and, uh, say hey to your broadcasters.

161. 1:14:31

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

162. 1:14:35

     Thank you, Chairman.

163. 1:14:39

     Representative Jackson. Representative Mack Jackson is recognized for a morning order. Then we'll have Representative Fleming, Chairman Williams, and Representative Martinez. They're, you're on deck.

164. 1:14:57

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise to welcome Head Start to the Georgia State Capitol. Today is Susie Wilcher Day, and they are coming here to commemorate Susie Wilcher on Head Start Day. If you're in the gallery, won't you rise so that we can recognize you?

165. 1:15:23

     Thank you to our Head Start organizations for coming to the Georgia State Capitol. Mr. Speaker, I yield the floor.

166. 1:15:33

     Represent- Representative Fleming, Chairman Williams' son, and Representative Martinez. Hey, good to see you here, Congressman.

167. 1:15:45

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

168. 1:15:46

     Representative Gaines.

169. 1:15:47

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Colleagues, it's my honor today to recognize a group we have from Monroe, Georgia, and that is, uh, George Walton Academy. It's, uh, some of their third, fourth, and fifth graders, part of their BARK program, which is their gifted program. They are here in the gallery. Will y'all please stand so we can recognize y'all? Welcome to the Georgia State Capitol. Also, my, Mr. Speaker, my daughter, uh, Hannah Fleming, who's in the red dress back there in the back of the room, she's part of the program, and she's here today with one of her teachers, Ms. Neider, who's standing behind her. So if everybody tell Hannah good morning.

170. 1:16:19

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

171. 1:16:23

     Thank y'all. Good to have y'all. It's always good to have folks from home to visit us that are really engaged. Thank you, young people. You are Georgia's future.

172. 1:16:36

     Representative Johnny Chastain, what are you gonna talk about?

173. 1:16:40

     Apples.

174. 1:16:41

     Apples.

175. 1:16:41

     Got a couple guys coming.

176. 1:16:42

     Oh, all you apple folks.

177. 1:16:46

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

178. 1:16:48

     Gentleman suspended just for a moment. Gentleman suspended.

179. 1:16:53

     Watch it, I'm gonna throw this apple.

180. 1:16:54

     You better be careful. This is important. Look, look what's on your desk. Apple a day keeps the doctor away, right?

181. 1:17:01

     Yes, sir.

182. 1:17:02

     Gentleman's recognized.

183. 1:17:03

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. An apple a day- Oh. Keeps the doctor away. On your desk, everyone, you will find a Cameo, a Pink Lady, an Evercrisp or a Ludacrisp. One of those four or five apples, uh, that's, that's brought down early this morning, uh, from Ellijay. And those apples are a part of each apple orchard that's there in Gilmer County. So we kinda spread, spread that around. But I wanna thank, uh, Josh Aaron. Josh is up in the gallery.

184. 1:17:33

     Stand up, Josh. He brought these all the way down from North Georgia this morning to give everyone an apple.

185. 1:17:38

     There

186. 1:17:41

     you go.

187. 1:17:41

     And Josh, Josh is also doing a great job with the Georgia Apple Commission, which, which is made up of all the apple growers there in our community, and he's sorta leading the way on that. So appreciate that, Josh, and thank you for being here. You gonna say anything?

188. 1:17:54

     Thank you, Josh.

189. 1:17:55

     Mr. Speaker, also Josh has done a really good job of connecting Ellijay and Effingham. He's delivering to Effingham schools very often. So-

190. 1:18:03

     You're, you're-

191. 1:18:04

     We appreciate that

192. 1:18:04

     ... oh, you're behind a little bit. Josh and I already talked about that this morning, early this morning while you were asleep. So, uh, Josh, thank you. Come on down and join me up here, if you will. Apple a day, yeah. Thanks to what ... Hey, a big part of our state and our success in the apple industry. Josh, thank you. How many years? 83? 87?

193. 1:18:27

     83.

194. 1:18:28

     83 his family's been in the apple business. Thank you, Josh. Enjoy your apples. Representative Townsend and Representative Dewey Newton, and friends. Other friends as well.

195. 1:18:43

     Yeah.

196. 1:18:43

     If y'all are friends, join him. You obviously know him.

197. 1:18:47

     All right. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Dewey's good enough. I like you, Dewey.

198. 1:18:51

     Yes.

199. 1:18:52

     All right. Today, guys, is a special day. It is donor, donor day at the Capitol. That's right. It's a donor day at the Capitol. As you know, I'm a kidney donor myself. Over 20 years ago, I donated a kidney to my daughter. It's a special time for me. Did you know in Georgia there are 2,600 Georgians last year who donated an organ. 229 were alive. So we can do something about that, guys. We can all donate a, donate an organ. Make sure you go to ...

200. 1:19:23

     Make sure when you get your driver's license renewed, there's one way to do it. You can do it through a hunting and fishing license. You can go to online website, too, as well, donorlifegeorgia.org. Right now, there are over 3,300 Georgians awaiting a transplant. That's right, 3,300 Georgians awaiting a transplant. I wanna thank Life- LifeLink who's here. Hope Reed, Executive Director, and Bobby Howard, if you're here, please stand up. Let's give LifeLink ... They help transport these kidneys. They help with the transplant process.

201. 1:19:55

     Without them, we couldn't do it. Again, let's give, uh, LifeLink and all these organ donors a round of applause, guys. Thank you very much.

202. 1:20:05

     All mark. All mark.

203. 1:20:05

     Thank you.

204. 1:20:05

     Thank you.

205. 1:20:08

     Thank you.

206. 1:20:08

     Hey, thanks. That's pr- ve- very good and very important work. Thank you. Representative, Representative Donatucci.

207. 1:20:19

     You got a visual aid there, don't you? Did I approve that? Did I approve that visual aid? It's approved.

208. 1:20:30

     And Representative Martinez. The lady's recognized.

209. 1:20:33

     Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize family caregiver legislators. There you go. I'll let you hold that. Thank you. Each one is a special story for those that they love. It is said that there are four kinds of people in this world. Those who have been caregivers, those who are-

210. 1:20:52

     Lady will suspend just for a moment.

211. 1:20:55

     Thank you. Those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need a caregiver. Across Georgia, 2.5 million people are caring for older parents, spouses or other loved ones. Family caregivers in our state provide 16.3 million in unpaid care each year, helping family members live independently at home and in their communities where they wanna be. That is why AARP has made it their mission to ensure that family caregivers have the resources and support that they need to best care for their loved ones.

212. 1:21:30

     On behalf of AARP, we're recognizing and honoring the work that you do, but also for all of these legislative caregivers. If you would give them a hand.

213. 1:21:46

     There they are. Thank you.

214. 1:21:49

     Y'all will stand there. There's some folks from AARP right there. Thank y'all for what you do. We appreciate you. Representative Donatucci, thank you for that. It is about families taking care of families and neighbors taking care of neighbors. So we appreciate our caregivers, and thanks for what AARP does as well in that sp- Thank you.

215. 1:22:26

     One more morning order. Representative Matt Reeves is recognized for a morning order.

216. 1:22:33

     Thank you, Speaker Burns. Uh, would like to, with your permission, invite any Gwinnett folks up here because we have the Men of Distinction from Lanier High School. Please, uh, stand up, gentlemen. Uh, they are here, uh, with mentors. Uh, they are learning, uh, life skills, business skills. They're learning about their state government. They are, uh, they are Lanier Longhorns. Welcome to your state capitol.

217. 1:23:08

     Thank you, Representative. Welcome to the Capitol. That completes our morning orders. We'll move on to the rules calendar. Members, we're going to hear House Bill 1061 first. This is one you need to be at your desk as we honor a former member of this house.

218. 1:23:51

     Mr. Clerk, will you read the caption to House Bill 1061? 1-0-6-1.

219. 1:23:58

     House Bill 1061 by Representative Camp of the 135th to be entitled an act to amend Chapter 11 of Title 15 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to the Juvenile Code so as to enact the Mandi Ballinger Act and to provide for implementation committee. This bill having been referred to the Committee on Juvenile Justice, that committee recommends that this bill do pass by committee substitute.

220. 1:24:28

     Chair Lady Camp is recognized to present House Bill 1061.

221. 1:24:34

     Good morning, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, members. Today I rise to present House Bill 1061, known as the Mandi Ballinger Act. This legislation reflects years of thoughtful work on juvenile justice reform and honors a colleague who dedicated her career to protecting children and strengthening families. At its core, HB 1061 addresses a fundamental question: How should we treat 17-year-olds in our justice system? Today in Georgia, 17 is automatically treated as an adult in the criminal system, regardless of the offense.

222. 1:25:09

     We are one of the only few states in the nation that still does this. This bill takes a more balanced and evidence-based approach. HB 1061 allows certain 17-year-olds to fall under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court system, where the focus is not only accountability, but rehabilitation, supervision, and the opportunity to redirect their life before they permanently take a road they cannot come back from. Importantly, this is not a blanket policy. Serious violent offenses are excluded.

223. 1:25:39

     Repeat offenders and certain high-risk crimes remain in the adult system. This bill carefully is structured to ensure that public safety remains paramount. Members, I want to talk for a moment briefly about the stakeholders who were involved in this issue. In the committee hearing, the Georgia Sheriff's Association spoke on this bill and they took a neutral position. Additionally, the Prosecuting Attorneys' Council of Georgia expressed support for this legislation. That combination reflects a careful balance between public safety, accountability, and rehabilitation.

224. 1:26:13

     What this bill recognizes is that science, data, and experience have consistently shown us that adolescents at the age of 17 typically are not fully brain developed. This, that appropriate intervention at this stage can reduce recidivism and improve long-term outcomes. Members, this is about being smart and being tough on crime. HB 1061 ensures that this transition is implemented responsibly with the necessary coordination and structure to support our courts and our communities by creating an organizational committee to determine how to accomplish this objective.

225. 1:26:51

     And just as importantly, this bill honors my dear friend Mandi Ballinger, a leader who worked tirelessly to improve outcomes for children in our state and who understood that public safety and compassion are not competing values. Members, we have an opportunity today to take a meaningful step towards Georgia's families, for our courts, for our young people, to get them back on the right path. I respectfully ask for your favorable consideration on House Bill 1061. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

226. 1:27:21

     Thank you. The lady has no questions?

227. 1:27:23

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield the well.

228. 1:27:25

     Lady's yielded the well. Thank you, members. Is there any objection to the previous question being ordered? Hearing none, the previous question is ordered. Is there objection to adopting the committee substitute? Hearing none, the committee substitute is adopted. Is there any objection to agreeing to the report of the committee, which was favorable to the passage of the bill? Hearing none, the report of the committee is agreed to. Shall this bill now pass?

229. 1:27:56

     All in favor of the passage of the bill will vote yes. All those opposed will vote no. And Mr. Clerk will unlock the machine.

230. 1:28:33

     Have all members voted?

231. 1:28:43

     All members voted. If so, Mr. Clerk will lock the machine. On the passage of House Bill 1061, the Mandi Ballinger Act, the yays are 155, the nays are zero. This bill having received the requisite constitutional majority is therefore passed. Thank you, members.

232. 1:29:13

     Thank you, Judge. Thank you, Henry.

233. 1:29:18

     That beloved Henry. Know that Chair Lady Ballinger's smiling down on that young man.

234. 1:29:26

     Mr. Clerk, will you read the caption to House Bill 1199? 1-1-9-9. House Bill 1199 by Representative Carson of the 46th to be entitled an Act to amend Code Section 48-1-2 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to definitions regarding revenue and taxation so as to revise the definition of the terms "Internal Revenue Code" and "Internal Revenue Code of 1986" to incorporate certain provisions of federal law into Georgia law.

235. 1:29:58

     This bill having referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, that committee recommends that this bill do pass by Rules Committee Substitute.

236. 1:30:14

     Chairman Carson is recognized to present the bill, House Bill 1199. The gentleman's recognized. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and, uh, happy Friday everybody. This is House Bill 1199. This is our annual Internal Revenue Code, or IRC, conformity update. It's a housekeeping measure. Every year we have to do this to change the dates, uh, in our, uh, Title 48 Revenue Code to conform to the tax changes that were made in Washington, DC. We're conforming to most. Uh, there's a, a, a f- a couple that we're not conforming to, but this is a necessary measure so that Georgians can file their income tax returns, that we have tax laws in place for 2025.

237. 1:30:53

     Overall, for the about a five-year period, beginning in fiscal '26, this is a, um, a net tax reduction, uh, combined for individuals and businesses. And with that, Mr. Speaker, I will happy to answer a question. If not, I'll ask for the body's favorable consideration.

238. 1:31:16

     Gentleman has a question. Yield? Yes sir, I'll yield. Representative Holcomb, to your left, is recognized for a question. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Does the gentleman yield? Yes sir, I do. I read all these sections, and 63B5 is no-tip, 63B6 is overtime, 63B7 is interest on personal indebtedness, 163H4 is personal interest, 7, 174A is domestic research or expe- experimental expenditures.

239. 1:31:46

     And then, um, on lines 21 through 23, the exclusion concerns charitable contributions and moving it back to before, um, the enactment of Public Law 11921. Can you explain a little bit more why we're, we're excluding all of those provisions? Yes, there's several considerations there to my friend from DeKalb. There's several considerations there. Uh, one is in regard to we have to have a balanced budget i- in Georgia, and several of these provisions were gonna be too costly from a revenue consideration.

240. 1:32:19

     Uh, w- what we're literally looking to do is lower the tax rate for all Georgians as opposed to s- specific carve-outs here or there. But we are adopting, I would argue, a m- majority of the IRC conformity, uh, proposals. I would also add that we are, uh, what we're doing in r- in regard to this conformity is adopting the, the provisions, that the specific provisions that Department of Revenue and OPB, uh, uh, have suggested that we do.

241. 1:32:50

     Okay. All right. Thank you. If I could also say, the public law that you just mentioned, that, I believe that is, if I'm not mistaken, that's in relation to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. We did not conform to that in full in 20, well, for 2018, for 20, uh, tax year going forward. So there's certain items that we don't need to conform back to because we already conform to it. Okay. Thanks. Gentleman has no further questions. But we do have a speaker. But you have no further questions. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I ask for the body's favorable consideration. We do have a speaker that's, um, will speak in opposition.

242. 1:33:22

     That's Representative David Wilkerson. Representative Wilkerson is recognized. Give the gentleman your attention, please. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Uh, as my, uh, fellow Cobb County has said, we do need to get the tax conformity bill out. I am personally voting no because of the fact that was alluded to a little while ago, is that the federal government has decided not to tax tips up to 25,000. They're not taxing overtime, which means our law enforcement that works overtime, et cetera, they're still gonna be taxed on this. Um, while we do need to pass this bill, I encourage us to also pass separate legislation which will raise the standard deduction so that we can comply with the federal government.

243. 1:34:03

     I know there's some bills moving, and I would look forward to seeing those. But, um, for me, if we're going to give a tax cut and lower the rate, my preference would be to say nobody pays tax on the first 25,000. That would save about $675 by raising standard deduction. Lowering the rate will save somebody $26 for that same cut, and a millionaire will save, you know, tens of thousands of dollars. So I would encourage the body, as this bill moves forward, to look at separate legislation that would not tax overtime, not tax tips, and I would go a step further and not tax anybody for the first 25, personally.

244. 1:34:43

     But I'm not telling you to vote no. I'm telling you what I'm doing. But again, I wanna thank my colleagues, and I wanna thank the Ways and Means chairman and the team for all the work they're doing, but personally, I am voting no because I believe that those folks need a tax break, and they're not getting it through this legislation. Thank you, and I will yield the well. Or I'll yield to any questions. Gen- gentleman, you yield for a question? Yes. Yes, sir.

245. 1:35:01

     Chairman Carpenter, to your right, Representative Wilkerson. I saw you smiling from- Ah, I see you smiling at me. Yeah, it's so good to see you. Is it not true that I employ a lot of people in the service industry that work on tips? Yes. Yes it is. Is it also not further true that the people that are making tips are making a whole lot more money than the people in the back? So I'm not sure that a tax cut is apropos to make sure that every, for, on tips, is making sure everybody's supported in the state. It's a carve out. Well, a- and I, I hope the gentleman heard my part where I said I would not only comply with what the federal government is requiring, but I would also extend that same tax cut to the, to the back office.

246. 1:35:35

     'Cause I've had that same conversation when H.R.1 was passed, is that you're giving a break to the people that are serving but not the people in the back. I say give it to everybody. So whether you're driving Uber, whether you're at Chick-fil-A and you're making the biscuits or you're delivering the biscuits, you'll get the same tax cut. So I agree with you. This would be a tax cut by going a step further for everybody. But thank you for asking. Any other? Gen- yeah, gentleman, you up for one more question? Yes, Mr. Speaker. Representative Kelly in the right rear. Gentleman's recognized.

247. 1:36:06

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. With the gentleman yield? Yes, my good friend. To my friend from Cobb County, so is your position today that you're grateful that President Trump, the Republican-led Congress and Senate passed the big beautiful bill which included no tax on overtime or tips? I'm glad you asked that question. My, my, my response would be that I am shocked that this body is re- neglecting the president by not passing the same tax cut that is supported by both Democrats and Republicans overwhelmingly. So to your point, I am not the one turning my back on Mr.

248. 1:36:38

     President. But thank you for that question. Any other questions? I like numbers, by the way, so I'm getting excited. The gentle- the gentleman, do you have one more? Uh- That was wise, Mr. Wilkerson. Oh, man. Not- Chairman Blackmon is recognized. Not from the chairman. Yes, sir. Is it not true that, or do you yield for a question? I do yield, yes. Yes. Is it not true that I have invited the gentleman to sign on to some legislation that would do some of that very, very thing that you are, uh, espousing to, to want us to engage on?

249. 1:37:08

     And, and I do say yes, Mr. Chairman, and I thank you for that because, as you know, I have signed on to several tax cuts, and if they are worked for the, most Georgians, work for all Georgians actually, I will look forward to giving tax relief. So let's talk about that bill, but for now, I will be voting no on this bill. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the representative- Thank you ... for his signature. The gentleman has no further questions. Thank you. I think he's standing strong. I yield the, well, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good conversation. Thanks for members ensuring we get it right.

250. 1:37:40

     We have no further questions, and the gentleman's yielded the well. Is there any objection to the previous question being ordered? Hearing none, the previous question is ordered. Is there any objection to agreeing to the substitute offered by the Committee on Rules? Hearing none, the Rules Committee substitute is adopted. Is there any objection to agreeing to the report of the committee, which was favorable to the passage of the bill? Hearing none, the report of the committee is agreed to. Shall this bill pass? All those in favor of the passage of the bill will vote yes.

251. 1:38:11

     All those opposed will vote no. And Mr. Clerk will unlock the machines.

252. 1:38:38

     Have all members voted? All members voted. If so, Mr. Clerk will lock the machine. On the passage of House Bill 1199, the yays are 106, the nays are 54. This bill having received the requisite constitutional majority is therefore passed.

253. 1:39:03

     Mr. Clerk, will you read the caption to House Bill 1086? 1086. House Bill 1086 by Representative Chastain of the 7th and others to be entitled An Act to Amend Chapter 2 with Title 25 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to regulation of fire and other hazards to persons and property generally so as to require notice to be posted upon certain buildings of the use of light frame trust type construction. This bill having been referred to the committee on Regulated Industries, that committee recommends that this bill do pass by committee substitute.

254. 1:39:40

     The gentleman from Blue Ridge, Representative Johnny Chastain, is recognized to present House Bill 1086. The gentleman is recognized. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So I stand here today proud to present this bill as a Georgia firefighter, and this is HB 1086. This bill, this legislation will help protect Georgia firefighters from possible injury and death by simply requiring a very low-cost small signage on the buildings used at, that are used with light frame or light steel trusses.

255. 1:40:13

     And this has been, uh, this, this bill has just been passed in Florida not too long ago and several other states. Sadly, a lot of states have passed this bill post, um, a bad thing happening in their state or in their city, where we've had injuries or deaths from firefighters going into these type of situations. So I'm very proud to be here and be, try to be proactive for our state and Georgia. This bill has been endorsed by the Georgia Fire Chiefs Association. It's been endorsed by the Georgia Firefighters Association, been endorsed by the Fire Engineering Service and the Georgia Safety and Fire Division with the deputy commissioner who's actually here with us, uh, this morning up in the gallery.

256. 1:40:49

     I'm honored tonight. We named this bill after, after two, uh, fallen firefighters in Georgia. One, uh, Preston Lee Fant, a, a 21-year DeKalb County, uh, firefighter that passed-

257. 1:41:03

     Past this, this past September actually, in 2025 in the line of duty. And I think maybe some of his family's here today, and I, and I hope they, they made it down. But he leaves behind his wife and five children and one grandchildren. Also, uh, the other firefighter is Brandt Chesney, and Brandt was a 36-year firefighter in Gwinnett and Forsyth County. Uh, passed away in an, an apartment fire in Forsyth County, in Forsyth County many years ago. So we're, we're very honored to be able to, uh, name this legislation after, after these two highly distinguished firefighters in Georgia.

258. 1:41:37

     The bill simply, uh, requires the owner of a building that has these, these very light frame steel or wood trusses to, to place a, place a sign. And in the, in the bill, that will all be under the fire marshal and the fire, uh, safety division to where those, the little emblem will go. It's an eight-inch emblem. It's nine bucks on Amazon, but it saves lives. And it'll let a fireman or a first responder know that if they, if they're called to one of, to the scene, to be a, a little bit more aware of, of that building. Because those, those, those trusses are great. They're engineered, they're strong, they're all that, but they will fail quicker under fire than normal trusses.

259. 1:42:12

     So we want our firefighters and our first responders to be aware of that when they're entering into a s- a situation that's, that's harmful to their, to their life. So that's the bill, Mr. Speaker, and I'll be glad to answer any questions.

260. 1:42:29

     Gentleman has a question. Representative Jasmine Clark, to your left, is recognized for a question.

261. 1:42:34

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Does the gentleman yield?

262. 1:42:36

     Yes, ma'am.

263. 1:42:37

     Thank you so much for bringing this bill. This is absolutely important legislation. I am, um, concerned, however, about, um, you talked about-

264. 1:42:47

     Members-

265. 1:42:47

     You talked about-

266. 1:42:48

     Excuse me. This lady will suspend. Members, you may be seated for a moment.

267. 1:42:54

     Continue.

268. 1:42:55

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Um, so if a building is engulfed in flames, which sometimes happens by the time, uh, firefighters arrive, how do we ensure that the sign will actually still be able to s- be seen, since on line 24 of the bill it's, requires that the sign is on the building?

269. 1:43:15

     Yes. The, the, and that will be, uh, regulated by the state fire marshal as to where those emblems will go. It could be by the, by the knock box. It could be by the electrical unit, which is a common place for firefighters to go. It could be by a water supply. But the, the ultimate call on that would be with the incident, the incident commander that would be on scene would make that call as, as to what transition that fire's in. If it's a defensive fire and it's already too late, obviously no one would be going in the building anyway.

270. 1:43:39

     Okay. And, um, does the gentleman further yield?

271. 1:43:42

     Yes.

272. 1:43:42

     Is there any contemplation, um, on possibly just requiring that building owners also register with their local fire department when they have this type of material so that fire departments do know ahead of time this is one of those buildings that could possibly be more dangerous?

273. 1:44:01

     Yes. And, and thank you for the question. And they will know, because this will all be propagated down from the fire safety marshal through communication to all the local fire, fire marshals in, in the, in the state.

274. 1:44:11

     Okay. Thank you.

275. 1:44:12

     Yes, ma'am.

276. 1:44:14

     Gentleman yield for another question?

277. 1:44:17

     Yes, sir.

278. 1:44:18

     Representative Burchett, Whit Burchett, to your right.

279. 1:44:20

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Does the gentleman yield?

280. 1:44:22

     Yes, sir.

281. 1:44:23

     Um, to the, the lady's question, isn't it true that it is a common practice for fire departments to, um, uh, review or do an onsite visit of most commercial buildings in their, um, service area, and in that case, uh, uh, ahead of time, they'll be able to see that placard on there? I know that in my community, is it not true that, um, our fire departments tr- uh, make routine trips to our commercial buildings to, one, check the knock box, and this would be another check for them to determine whether or not it has this placard?

282. 1:44:58

     Is that not true?

283. 1:44:59

     That is true. And ma- many fire departments already have the pre-plans, as you mentioned. Um, and they, they already know these buildings, and they, they are required to go back out on an annual basis. A, a lot of the rural fire departments have a little more trouble with that from staffing and things like that. But yes, sir, that is true.

284. 1:45:14

     Thank you, Representative.

285. 1:45:18

     Gentleman has no further questions then, but we do have someone to speak in favor of, so you have no further questions? Gentleman's yield with drawn. Representative Lauren McDonald is recognized to speak to the bill, House Bill 1086. Speak in favor of the bill.

286. 1:45:35

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ladies and gentlemen of the House, uh, today I s- wanna come here to speak in favor of House Bill 1086. Um, HB1086 kind of personal for me. Back in 1996, uh, December 28th, uh, I was in the process of building my business in Forsyth County. I had an application in to the Forsyth County Fire Department. And on that day, the fire department had one of the most tragic days in its life, as one of its own, uh, was, Brandt Chesney, was killed in a fire, uh, off, off Buford Dam Road in an apartment fire, truss-built, uh, type structure.

287. 1:46:08

     Uh, tragic day. That, that lived on for years, and his, his memory still is in our f- in our fire department back home, as I served 23 years in Forsyth County. But today, uh, we have representing Forsyth County and the Chesney family, uh, firemen, f- firemen that I worked with, uh, front, back in my days, uh, Firefighter Keith Purkey, Jason Stover, and Todd Sliger. I'd like for y'all to stand in supporting the Chesney family as we pass House Bill 1086. Thank you for being here, guys.

288. 1:46:49

     Members, thank you. I look forward to your favorable support on House Bill 1086.

289. 1:46:57

     Thank you for bringing this legislation. There's no further speakers. In other, that's the introduction and explanation of House Bill 108- 86. Members, thank you for your attention. Is there any objection to the previous question being ordered? Hearing none, the previous question is ordered. Is there any objection to adopting the committee substitute? Hearing none, the committee substitute is adopted. Is there any objection to agreeing to the report of the committee, which was favorable to the passage of the bill?

290. 1:47:29

     Hearing none, the report of the committee is agreed to. Shall this bill now pass? All those in favor of the passage of the bill will vote yes. All those opposed will vote no. And Mr. Clerk will unlock the machine.

291. 1:48:02

     Have all members voted?

292. 1:48:10

     All members voted. If so, Mr. Clerk will lock the machine. On the passage of House Bill 1086, the yeas are 161, the nays are zero. This bill having received the requisite constitutional majority is therefore passed. Thank you, members. Members, we have two resolutions that remain on the rules calendar, and we're going to postpone them to the next legislative day.

293. 1:48:41

     That will be House Resolution 1000 and House Resolution 1049 will be postponed to the next legislative day.

294. 1:48:54

     For what purpose does Representative Martin rise?

295. 1:48:59

     To make a motion.

296. 1:49:00

     State your motion.

297. 1:49:01

     I move the rules of the House be temporary, temporarily suspended so the bill may be read and assigned to comm- read for the first time and assigned to committee.

298. 1:49:10

     Mr. Clerk will read the caption.

299. 1:49:12

     Unnumbered House bill by Representative Martin of the 49th and others to be entitled an Act to Amend Part Th- Three of Article Seven of Chapter Three of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to Georgia Student Finance Authority.

300. 1:49:24

     On the gentleman's motion that the rules of this House be temporarily suspended so a bill can be read for the first time and assigned to committee. Is there objection? Higher education. For what purpose does Representative Matt Reeves rise?

301. 1:49:40

     To make a motion.

302. 1:49:42

     State your motion.

303. 1:49:43

     Mr. Speaker, I move that the rules be temporarily suspended so the bill may be read for the first time and assigned to committee.

304. 1:49:50

     Mr. Clerk will read the caption.

305. 1:49:51

     Unnumbered House bill by Representative Reeves of the 99th and others to be entitled an Act to Amend Chapter 11 of Title 14 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to limited liability companies.

306. 1:50:04

     On the gentleman's motion that the rules of this House be temporarily suspended so a bill can be read for the first time and assigned to committee. Is there objection? Judiciary.

307. 1:50:22

     For what purpose does Representative Seabaugh rise?

308. 1:50:25

     Make a motion.

309. 1:50:27

     State your motion.

310. 1:50:28

     Motion that the rules of the House be temporarily suspended so that a bill can be read for the first time and assigned to committee.

311. 1:50:37

     Mr. Clerk will read the caption.

312. 1:50:39

     Unnumbered House bill by Representative Seabaugh of the 34th and others to be entitled an Act to Amend Part Four of Article Six of Chapter Three of Title 12 and Article One of Chapter 16 of Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated relating to the Stone Mountain Memorial Association.

313. 1:50:56

     On the gentleman's motion that the rules of this House be temporarily suspended so that bill can be read for the first time and assigned to committee. Is there objection? Game, Fish and Parks.

314. 1:51:22

     That completes our work on the rules calendar and motions for the House. We'll move on to afternoon orders. Representative Mack Jackson.

315. 1:51:37

     Representative Mack Jackson, we'll skip over him for now. Uh, Representative Scott.

316. 1:51:46

     Representative Scott.

317. 1:51:47

     It's gonna be Representative Davis Scott.

318. 1:51:51

     Representative Davis will stand in. Representative Scott had to ... Oh, Representative Schofield. You sent them both home. One of them home.

319. 1:52:04

     Thank you, Mr. Sp-

320. 1:52:05

     Lady's recognized.

321. 1:52:06

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members of the House, on February 23rd, 2020 in Glynn County, Ahmaud Arbery was chased and fatally shot while jogging. We'll never forget Ahmaud. This Monday is Ahmaud Arbery Day, our annual 5K run, and walk for some, at Lee and White Trailhead in Atlanta. Uh, we'll be meeting there at 6:00. Bring your casual clothes and sneakers, lace up and let's walk and run for Ahmaud. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield the welcome.

322. 1:52:44

     Representative Ali. Gentleman is r- recognized for an afternoon order. Gentleman's recognized. Give him your attention, please.

323. 1:52:52

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My fellow members of the People's House, this is 15-year-old Olivia on the screen. She's extroverted, helpful, and a natural born leader. Her hobbies include swimming, art, and being way too good at the game of Uno. And most importantly, she'll be a warm addition to any family th- who chooses to adopt her. And we can make that happen at... itsmyturnnow.dhs.georgia.gov as always. Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. I yield the floor.

324. 1:53:30

     Representative Martinez. You have an afternoon order?

325. 1:53:57

     Representative Ray Martinez is recognized for an afternoon order.

326. 1:54:03

     Sandy up here.

327. 1:54:11

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I wanna, uh, take a little time, uh, to ask my colleagues to please pray for our good friend, former, former legislator here, our good friend Melvin Everson. Melvin Everson had a stroke a few months ago, and, uh, he is back home recovering. And please keep your prayers, uh, uh, with him. I'd like to, uh, say that Melvin served this body from, uh, as a state rep in, uh, Snellville from 2006 to 2011.

328. 1:54:43

     I'm sorry, 2005- Gentleman will suspend just for a moment. I didn't know about this, and the members don't.

329. 1:54:49

     Melvin Everson was a friend of mine.

330. 1:54:52

     We're speaking about a former member of this house.

331. 1:54:56

     Counseling. I was-

332. 1:54:56

     Gentleman will proceed.

333. 1:54:58

     Melvin Everson served this house from 2005 to 2011, and he is the first African American mayor in the, um, in the city of Snellville. So please, please keep your prayers for him as he, uh, goes through this long battle. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

334. 1:55:14

     Good man, Representative Melvin Everson. So thank you members, colleagues, and close friends of, of Melvin. So certainly be in our prayers. Melvin, we wish you the best, and we'll be praying for your recovery. Thanks, Representative Martinez. Representative Mack Jackson. The gentleman's recognized for an afternoon order.

335. 1:55:37

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ladies and gentlemen, I rise today for a Black history moment. Georgia had approximately 242 to 243 Rosenwald sch- schools built for Black children, but the number still standing is much smaller, with estimates around 38 to 46 structures remaining as of the early 2000s. Rosenwald schools were built by Booker T. Washington and Julius Rosenwald, who was the president of Sears Roebuck Company.

336. 1:56:13

     They built schools in Black communities because Booker T. Washington believed that education was a way to rise above poverty among the Black community. I've, uh, introduced legislation, House Bill 1394, to include Rosenwald schools in DCA's historic preservation grants.

337. 1:56:37

     But gentleman will suspend. This is pretty important. Rosenwald schools, I'm learning in addition to what I already knew. Let's get some members to pay attention. You're gonna have the whole weekend to attend to all this business y'all attending to now.

338. 1:56:52

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You'll see a picture of T.J. Elder School in Sandersville, Georgia, which was built by Julius Rosenwald to educate Black children. Our school has been there since 1937 and is still standing. And the bill, the legislation that I've introduced will include Rosenwald schools in the DCA grants for historical preservation. This is my Black history moment. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield the well.

339. 1:57:24

     That's pretty awesome. This is Sandersville. Rosenwald schools.

340. 1:57:31

     I've got a hearing on Wednesday.

341. 1:57:32

     Got a hearing on Wednesday. Good luck.

342. 1:57:33

     Thank you.

343. 1:57:33

     Let me know what I can do.

344. 1:57:35

     Thank you.

345. 1:57:37

     Thank you, Representative Mack Jackson. That completes our afternoon orders.

346. 1:57:48

     Mr. Clerk, will you read the caption to a group of privileged resolutions? Mr. Clerk.

347. 1:57:56

     Honoring and celebrating the 95th birthday of Mrs. Marthel Powell. Congratulating Mr. Terry Cummings upon his induction as an honorary member of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County. Congratulating and commending Melissa Walker for receiving the 2026 Yellow Rose Nikki T. Randall Service Leader Award. Recognizing and commending Larry L- Larry M. Lehman for his lifetime of service and leadership in public health. Recognizing and commending the Greater North Georgia Fulton Chamber of Commerce.

348. 1:58:29

     Recognizing and commending the 68th Annual Southeast District Conference of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs Incorporated, and honoring its longstanding commitment to leadership, service, and economic empowerment. Recognizing and commending the Boys & Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico. Recognizing Judge Fina Otten for her distinguished service and judicial leadership.

349. 1:58:56

     Recognizing February 26, 2026, as Law Enforcement Appreciation Day at the Capitol, and commending law enforcement officers in Georgia. Recognizing February 25, 2026, as Georgia Airports Association Day. Recognizing February 24, 2026, as HHCP Day at this Capitol. Recognizing and commending Ms. Ashley Rodriguez. Recognizing and commending the contributions of Asian Americans Advanced Jud- Justice Atlanta, Asian Americans Advocacy Fund, Asian American Voices for Education- Recognizing and commending Aubrey Allen.

350. 1:59:33

     Recognizing and commending Ariel Hibbert. Recognizing and commending Jasmine Stamper. And for other purposes. That completes the reading of the privileged resolutions.

351. 2:00:08

     Is there any objection to adopting the privileged resolutions? Hearing none, the resolutions are adopted.

352. 2:00:37

     Members, we're moving on to announcements. Representative Vance Smith is recognized for an announcement.

353. 2:00:46

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Uh, ladies and gentlemen, Monday is a committee day. Remember that, Monday is a committee day. We have a Natural Resources, the Environmental Subcommittee that'll be meeting Monday morning at 10:00 AM in Room 506. 10:00 AM, 506. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

354. 2:01:04

     Thank you, Representative Smith. Chairman Cheokas recognized for an announcement.

355. 2:01:10

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members of the Small Business Development Committee, Tuesday, February 24th, 8:00 AM, 506. Hope to see y'all there. Y'all have a good weekend. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

356. 2:01:23

     Representative Berry.

357. 2:01:29

     Recognize- gentleman's recognized for an announcement.

358. 2:01:34

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The City of Atlanta will be meeting today at noon in Capitol 230, where we will be serving lunch. So City of Atlanta delegation today at noon in Cap 230. Thank you.

359. 2:01:44

     Representative Jasmine Clark.

360. 2:01:53

     Representative Clark, you have an announcement. We'll scoop, skip over you and we'll come back. Leader Efstration recognized for an announcement.

361. 2:02:04

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have two very important announcements. Uh, the first is that the Senate right now is, um, expected to take up, uh, the budget, supplemental budget, and part of that procedurally as we work toward conference committees is we have to take several procedural steps to get the bill to conference so that the conferees can begin work this weekend. Now, what, what we, what I know many members would not prefer to do is for us to take a recess for lunch and be delayed this afternoon waiting on the Senate.

362. 2:02:38

     So the proposal is that we will be in recess for lunch, but members will be free to go with the knowledge and understanding that the only thing that will happen this afternoon is the procedural steps necessary for the speaker to appoint conferees. That will be it. And then I expect we'll, uh, move to adjourn to come back Tuesday at 10:00 AM. But, uh, but if you hear an announcement recessing for lunch and you choose to leave, you can go doing so, uh, knowing that the only thing that will be taken up is the procedural matters around the budget.

363. 2:03:16

     And I think both to the minority whip and my displeasure about having to stay late and delay our weekend, uh, we will both be here when that takes place, uh, this afternoon. And, um, and my, my second announcement, Mr. Speaker, if I may, is on Monday there will be a committee chairman's lunch in, at noon in Room 403 of the State Capitol for planning purposes. Uh, thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield the will.

364. 2:03:44

     Chairman Hatchett, do you have objection to that?

365. 2:03:47

     I had a question.

366. 2:03:48

     What, what purpose-

367. 2:03:48

     I was wondering if I could recess and leave also.

368. 2:03:55

     Yeah, for about 30 minutes you can leave. I'd go tend to it and come back. So the, uh, leader eloquently laid out what our posture will be. This is not the first time that, from understanding what I have with the clerk's office, that we will ha- be in this posture. So we'll be asking you, uh, if you will give me the authority and grant me the authority to disagree, then you'll be free to go ahead and begin your weekend, and we will only tend, tend to, to those pieces of business.

369. 2:04:29

     We will disagree and appoint. So that will be our posture when we get there and ask, and put this house in recess.

370. 2:04:43

     The Senate is ac- is actually taking up the budget right now. Uh, but y'all know how that... Maybe they won't recess before they finish. Let's see what happens. Chairman Hawkins is recognized for a, an announcement.

371. 2:04:58

     Uh, thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Committee on Health will meet on Monday from 2:00 to 4:00 in the Capitol 403. Monday, 2:00 to 4:00. Be there.

372. 2:05:52

     Chairman Anderson's recognized for an announcement.

373. 2:05:58

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Uh, House Governmental Affairs Committee will meet Monday afternoon at 3:00 in CLOB 506. Thank you.

374. 2:06:23

     Chairman Dickey is recognized for an announcement.

375. 2:06:27

     Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um, we will have a Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee on Monday afternoon, 4:00, 606 CLOB. Be on the lookout for announcement. Thank you.

376. 2:06:42

     Chairman Gunther.

377. 2:06:45

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Uh, House Judiciary will meet in Room 132 on Monday at 9:00 AM. We have a few bills, and I expect we'll have them done before Rules Committee.

378. 2:07:02

     Chairman Lumsden, recognized for an announcement.

379. 2:07:07

     Be a full Insurance Committee meeting on Tuesday morning at nine... At 8:00 AM. Tuesday morning, 8:00 AM, CLOB 506. Thank you.

380. 2:07:16

     Chairman Erwin r- recognized for an announcement.

381. 2:07:19

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Uh, Education Committee, we will have sub-

382. 2:07:28

     Continue.

383. 2:07:29

     Education Committee, we will meet as sub-committees on Monday from 1:00 till 3:00. So Education Committee, same room at CLOB 506. Thank you.

384. 2:07:45

     That completes our announcements. We have a couple of birthdays over the weekend. Chairman Victor Anderson will be celebrating a birthday on Saturday.

385. 2:07:58

     And Representative David Sampson will be celebrating a birthday on Sunday down in Albany.

386. 2:08:07

     If you have a page, we want you to come down and get a page photo. So one slight tweak to, w- we wanna make sure this body is completely informed on the process as we move forward. So when the Senate sends the, uh, amended budget back over, we will disagree. It goes back to them, they insist. Then it comes back to us, and we in, as- insist and appoint.

387. 2:08:41

     So I want you to be aware there's one step there that was not in the previous announcement. So that will be our posture. If you wanna stay with me, fine. If you wanna go home, hit the road, Jack. And, uh, we'll, uh, be back here to tend to work next week, but that will be this House's posture. Then we will adjourn until Monday, excuse me, Tuesday at 10:00 AM.

388. 2:09:28

     Members, we'll go ahead and let you know who the conferees will be, as is, uh, our custom. It will be Chairman Hatchett, of course, since he knows a little bit about this piece of the budget. Pro Tem Jones will be a conferee, and Leader Efstration will be the three conferees that will be appointed.

389. 2:09:58

     Those will be the three members of this House that will be appointed as conferees. Okay. Page photos.

390. 2:10:07

     Stand in recess.

391. 2:10:09

     This House will stand in recess.

392. 2:10:13

     Adjourned.

393. 2:10:18

     This House will stand in recess, and then we will be adjourned after the, our business of the day is completed with the, uh, disagree and the insist. And now y'all know who the appointees are. So, uh, y'all have a great weekend. Be safe, and we'll see you on Tuesday. But this House will be in recess.

394. 2:53:17

     So the Senate is working. The House will come back to order.

395. 2:53:22

     Recognize Chairman Hatchett for a motion.

396. 2:53:28

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

397. 2:53:30

     Gentleman, suspend doorkeeper in the back. Will you... Yes. Thank you, sir.

398. 2:53:37

     Thank you.

399. 2:53:37

     Gentleman's recognized for a motion.

400. 2:53:39

     Thank you. I move that this House disagree to the Senate substitute of HB 973.

401. 2:53:46

     Mr. Clerk, will you read the caption to House Bill 973?

402. 2:53:51

     House Bill 973 by Representative Burns, the 159th, Jones, the 47th, Efstration, the 104th, and others to be entitled an act to amend an act making and providing appropriations for the state fiscal year beginning July 1st, 2025 and ending June 30th, 2026, known as the General Appropriations Act.

403. 2:54:11

     Mr. Chairman, you want to explain the Senate substitute? Now'd be the time.

404. 2:54:16

     Senate-

405. 2:54:17

     Totally destroyed a perfectly great budget bill. No, I'm just kidding. So this starts the process of us going into disagreement with what they've done with the budget, and then we'll continue to move forward in the process. Mr. Chairman, I just want you to know that is a live mic you're on. I understand that. Yes, sir. Yeah. Well, the process works, right? I think that's what you meant to say. Um, on the gentleman's motion, the House disagree to the Senate substitute.

406. 2:54:50

     Is there objection? Hearing none, the House has agreed to the Senate substitute to ha- dis- did I say agreed? Oh, excuse me. This is a live mic. Has disagreed to the Senate substitute to House Bill 973.

407. 2:55:27

     The House is still here. Mr. Leader is recogn- the Leader is recognized for a motion. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that the House immediately, uh, transmit House Bill 973 back to the Senate.

408. 2:55:43

     The Leader has moved that we immediately transmit, the House immediately transmit House Bill 973 back to the Senate. Is there objection? Hearing none, so ordered.

409. 3:49:13

     Okay, this House will come back to order. All members will take their seats. I think they have, huh?

410. 3:49:22

     Chairman Hatchett is recognized for a motion.

411. 3:49:28

     Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that this House insist and appoint a conference committee on HB 973.

412. 3:49:40

     Chairman Hatchett moves that this House insist on its position on House Bill 973 and a committee of conference be appointed. Is that your motion? Mr. Clerk, will you read the caption? House Bill 973 by Representative Burns, 159 Jones, the 47th, Efstration, the 104th, and others to be entitled an act to amend an act making and providing appropriations for the state fiscal year beginning July 1st, 2025 and ending June 30th, 2026, known as the General Appropriations Act.

413. 3:50:14

     Thank you, Mr. Clerk. Is there objection? Hearing none, the House has insisted. Now we'll appoint Chairman Hatchett, Pro Tem Jan Jones, and Majority Leader Efstration are appointed to the committee of conference on House Bill 973.

414. 3:51:01

     All right, Mr. Majority Leader, I'm gonna recognize you for a motion. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that this House stand adjourned until Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at 10:00 AM. On the motion of the Majority Leader Efstration, this House stand adjourned until 10:00 AM Tuesday, February the 24th, 2026. All those in favor will say aye.

415. 3:51:28

     Boy, that was weak. All those opposed, no. No. Oh, yeah, it was very clear to me anyway. The House, the ayes have it, and this House is adjourned. Thank you, Whip Park, for being here, Leader Efstration, uh, Chairman, Mr. Clerk, and the best clerk team in the world, and of course, the best messenger in the world. This House stands adjourned, and we will see y'all Tuesday.