Here is the latest report from state Rep. John Yates:
“We continue to be rather busy as we must wrap up the 40 day session by March 24. Listed below are the more important bills and resolutions passed on March 14-16.
“S.B. 262 – This bill covers the disqualification of judges and members of the Grand Jury when they are related to any party involved in trial.
“S.R. 955 covers the conveyance of many pieces of property between parties in the State.
“S.B. 263 – This bill allows sworn officers to keep their weapons after retirement.
“S.B. 336 – This bill allows each employer to establish a retirement plan or plans by resolution of the municipal corporation.
“S.B. 364 – The Quality Basic Education Act revises the annual performance evaluation for public school teachers and leaders. It also reduces the amount of state mandated testing required.
“H.B. 757 – This was the most far reaching and time consuming bill that we had because it discussed religion and domestic relations. The bill relating to marriage generally, and replaces it with ministerial protections. Specifically, clergy ordained or authorized to solemnize marriages, according to the usages of his or her denomination and acting in an official religious capacity, shall not be required to solemnize any marriage in violation of his or her right to free exercise of religion under the United States or Georgia Constitutions. A refusal by such clergy shall not give rise to a cause of action. It exempts religious organizations, religious clergy, or non-profit corporations from being required to rent, lease, or otherwise grant permission for property to be used by another person for purposes which are objectionable to such religious organization. A refusal by such religious organization shall not give rise to a cause of action. Additionally, persons will be permitted to act in accordance with their religious beliefs, as allowed under the Georgia Constitution and consistent with decisions of the Georgia Supreme Court, but may not unjustly commit discrimination. This bill has been sent to the Governor’s Office for his disposition.
“I can be reached in my office at Room 217 State Capitol each day at 404-656-5126 and I can also be reached before 8 p.m. at my home at 770-227-1474. I can also be reached by email [email protected].”
