I have returned to District 60 for the holiday season. I encourage you to contact me regarding any legislative issues that are important to you, your family and our community.
U.S. District Judge Steve C. Jones (for the Northern District of Georgia) instructed the Georgia General Assembly to redraw Georgia’s State House, State Senate, and Congressional district maps by December 8, 2023.
The order called for five black-majority districts: two in south-metro Atlanta, one in west-metro Atlanta, and two in and around Macon-Bibb without eliminating any minority opportunity districts or making unnecessary changes.
My colleagues and I were called into this special session. Article V, Section II, Paragraph VII of the Georgia Constitution grants the governor the power to convene a special session of the General Assembly.
The House of Representatives convened for seven days during this special session, starting on Wednesday, November 29, 2023 and adjourning on Thursday, December 7, 2023.
House Bill 1EX, the “Georgia House of Representatives Redistricting Act of 2023” (found here). This bill was passed in the House on Friday, December 1, 2023, and was then voted in the Senate on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, where it received final passage. This legislation has now been sent to Governor Kemp for his consideration.
Senate Bill 1EX, the “Georgia Senate Redistricting Act of 2023” (found here). After receiving final passage in the House, SB 1EX was also sent to the governor to be signed into law.
Senate Bill 3EX, the “Georgia Congressional Redistricting Act of 2023,” (found here) This bill would adjust the composition of Georgia’s congressional districts. SB 3EX received final passage on the House floor on Thursday, December 7, 2023, and was also sent to the governor’s desk.
If Judge Jones finds that any of the maps are out of compliance with the Voting Rights Act (VRA), he will appoint a special master to draw the maps. He has scheduled a hearing for December 20th.on the maps that the General Assembly just passed.
House Resolution 3EX ratifies executive orders issued by Governor Kemp on September 12, 2023, October 6, 2023, and November 8, 2023, to suspend the collection of motor fuel and diesel fuel taxes due to inflation. In addition to our redistricting work during the special session, the governor’s proclamation also charged us with considering other necessary legislation. As such, my colleagues and I voted to adopt HR 3EX on Friday, December 1, 2023.
Our state and the nation mourned the loss of Former First Lady, Rosalynn Carter shortly before the House convened for the special legislative session. When my colleagues and I convened for the first day of the special session, we took time to honor the life and legacy of Rosalynn Carter with the adoption of House Resolution 6EX, which commends Mrs. Carter for her unwavering leadership and dedication to Georgia and the United States. Our state and the nation mourned the loss of Former First Lady, Rosalynn Carter shortly before the House convened for the special legislative session. When my colleagues and I convened for the first day of the special session, we took time to honor the life and legacy of Rosalynn Carter with the adoption of House Resolution 6EX, which commends Mrs. Carter for her unwavering leadership and dedication to Georgia and the United States.
My colleagues and I reflected on her life and offered a moment of silence for Rosalynn Carter and the Carter family. Mrs. Carter left behind a legacy of advocacy, resilience and partnership that has made an indelible mark on our state, the nation and the world. You can watch our tribute here.