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Pace Picks Up at the State Capitol as the General Assembly Nears the Half-Way Mark
Legislation continued moving through subcommittees and committees this week as senators and representatives worked to get their bills considered. Many bills progressed out of committee and await action by the House or Senate Rules Committee, including Senate Bill (SB) 321 addressing metal theft.
Several bills of concern to counties also have started to progress. More details on this legislation are provided below. Be sure to contact your legislators to discuss any concerns and explain the impact on your county.
Legislators will return to the Capitol on Wednesday, February 15, marking the 19th official day of the 2012 legislative session. ACCG expects to see the legislation addressing the sales tax on energy used in manufacturing as well as the debt set-off legislation allowing counties to collect overdue debts from state income tax refunds to be introduced in the coming days.
Legislation for Superior Court Clerks Causes Concerns for Counties
A subcommittee in the House Judicial Committee has discussed legislation this week that places additional expenses on counties to fund operations for the office of the Superior Court Clerk. HB 665 requires counties to increase surety bond coverage for errors and omissions to $250,000. Current state law requires clerks to carry a $25,000 bond. The bill also proposes to authorize clerks to purchase up to $1 million in errors and omissions coverage unless the county provides for such coverage under an exisiting insurance policy. The board of commissioners would be obliged to pay for the bond and E&O insurance. The legislation also establishes a $325 salary per month supplement for Superior Court Clerks for overseeing the Board of Equalization and requires counties to pay for specified equipment improvements. Furthermore, HB 665 changes the definition of subdivision plats and the raises the threshold for subdivisions requiring approval by county or city officials. The ACCG Policy Council has directed ACCG to oppose HB 665, so please contact your state representatives to express concerns.
ACCG Monitors SPLOST Legislation
Two bills addressing special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) were voted out of the Senate Finance Committee on Thursday and await action by the Senate Rules Committee. SB 395, sponsored by Senator Bill Heath, allows counties to call for fractional pennies for SPLOST referendums as long as the total rate of SPLOST levied at any given time does not exceed one penny. SB 332 places additional requirements on annual SPLOST reports. The bill requires counties to report the final cost of the project and any excess funds remaining when each project is completed. Currently, SB 332 also requires counties to include an estimate of the annual operating cost for each project when the commission considers the initial resolution calling for the referendum. ACCG is closely monitoring both of these bills.
Atlanta Marriott Marquis Offers Discounted Rate for ACCG Members
If you need overnight accommodations in Atlanta, be sure to check the Atlanta Marriott Marquis. ACCG has signed a preferred hotel agreement with the Atlanta Marriott Marquis that allows county commissioners and staff to receive a special rate for room reservations. The discounted room rate is: $133 and includes wireless high-speed internet access. The Atlanta Marriott Marquis is located at: 265 Peachtree Center Ave., Atlanta GA 30303. To check on room availability, call (888) 855-5701 and use the code “acz” or enter “acz” in the online reservation section located on the left side of the website. Availability is limited, meaning blackout dates may apply which could result in a higher rate.
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