The Holland Report - 2023, Week 2
Sara FuchsWhile we might not have been in session this week, vital work continued under the Gold Dome as the Joint Appropriations Committee held hearings to begin the work of shaping the state's budget. I also enjoyed spending some time with members of the community, including a visit to the Winfield Glen Homeowners Association and a meeting with the Buckhead Coalition. Come Monday, we are back in session with a busy week ahead!
Budget Hearings!
The only thing the Georgia General Assembly is constitutionally required to do during the 40-day session is pass a balanced budget. That process begins when the governor hands down his recommended budget allocations. Then, the Appropriations Committees from both chambers hear testimony from various agencies about funding needs - that's what happened this week. The budget will continue to be fine tuned for the next few weeks. In the House, we will likely vote on the measure in late February or early March.
What do we expect from this budget? The good news is that it's likely to include more money for education, an area that's been woefully underfunded for many years. Funds are being considered for both teacher raises and for fully funding the HOPE scholarship. The Secretary of State is asking for more funding to better track absentee ballots and make the check-in process to vote run more smoothly (both of which require some technology investment). Expect to also see a push for additional public health spending with an emphasis on mental healthcare.
Join me on Zoom on Sunday, January 29th, 4 - 5 pm, as I resume my Listening Sessions! Pre-register on Zoom for the link here.
If you haven’t already, please browse my website, betsyforgeorgia.com.
As your Representative, your concerns are important to me. Please contact me at betsy.holland@house.ga.gov or 404-656-0116 with questions, concerns, or solutions you may have regarding legislation or other happenings in District 54.
To stay updated, follow me on Twitter and Facebook, and follow the Georgia House of Representatives @GAHouseHub on Twitter. Additionally, in-depth information regarding current bills, Georgia's annual and supplemental budgets, committee meetings, and livestreams from the General Assembly can be accessed via www.legis.ga.gov.
I encourage you and your family to visit our State Capitol and my office, where all constituents are welcome. I look forward to connecting with you!
My office is located at:
18 Capitol Square, SW
409-B, Coverdell Legislative Office Building
Atlanta, Georgia 30334
Thank you for allowing me to serve as your representative.
Representative Betsy Holland
GA House District 54
