Staff Analysis of the Legislation
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Any person who uses state funds through purchase orders, government contracts, credit cards, charge cards or debit cards for his or her own personal benefit will be charged with a misdemeanor of high and aggravated nature if the total amount does not exceed $500. If the total amount exceeds $500, the person will be charged with a felony. In addition to fines and imprisonment, restitution equal to the amount of unlawful purchases plus 12 percent interest per year must be paid. Any person knowingly assisting in using state funds for personal benefit will be charged with the same penalty. Any person who uses travel advance from state funds for nongovernmental purposes will also be charged with a misdemeanor of high and aggravated nature if the amount does not exceed $500 and a felony if the amount does exceed $500. HB 1113 also establishes regulations for purchase cards provided by the State of Georgia. |