This preemption legislation establishes additional requirements on individuals (other than ex officio or nonvoting members) appointed to county or city boards, commissions or authorities that establish policy, spend public funds, levy taxes or impose or collect fees or charges.  In order to be eligible for such an appointment, the individual must be a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident or an alien having lawful status in the U.S.  The individual must also be a legal resident of Georgia, unless he or she resides in another state but owns an interest in business in Georgia or is employed in Georgia.  These qualifications do not apply to active duty members of the armed forces or an immediate family member of an active duty member of the armed forces.  The body making the appointment (i.e., the board of commissioners) is responsible for determining whether an individual meets these qualifications.

This legislation allows dental hygienists to apply topical flouride and sealants and oral prophylaxis under general supervision in county hospitals and health facilities.

This bill would expand the property tax exemption for property owned by charitable organizations. Presently, buildings on such property must be "exclusively" used for charitable purposes. This bill would remove that exclusivity requirement, meaning that such buildings could be used for other purposes, including income-generating activities. As originally introduced, this bill would expand the property tax exemption only for homes for the mentally disabled.