The Georgia legislative session is in its second week, with lawmakers focusing on developing the state budget. Senator Frank Ginn provided an update on budget hearings that began on Tuesday last week, noting that appropriations discussions remain a priority. Ginn stated that he will serve on the Appropriations Subcommittees for Agriculture and Natural Resources and Transportation, according to Georgia State Senate Press Office.
Governor Brian Kemp has proposed returning more than $1 billion in income taxes to Georgia residents, which would provide rebates of $250 for single filers and up to $500 for joint filers. The governor’s budget proposal also includes funding for higher education, with allocations for the University System of Georgia and the University of Georgia.
Specific education-related funding includes $9.5 million for the UGA School of Medicine and $5.6 million for the design of a new School of Nursing facility. Additional investments outlined in the proposal include more than $34 million for modernization projects on Science and Ag Hill and over $31 million for food and farm operations.
Senator Ginn also announced opportunities for students ages 12 to 18 to serve as Senate Pages during the legislative session. The program allows participants to observe and assist with legislative activities at the State Capitol for one day. Interested students are encouraged to contact his office for more information.
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