Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
Summary
Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism for meetings on February 5, February 19, February 24, February 26 and February 28, 2025, with Chairman Beach presiding. On February 5 the committee adopted its rules unanimously and took no action on SB 38 and SR 52 (Development Impact Fees). On February 19, SB 28 (Red Tape Rollback Act of 2025) received Do Pass by Substitute by a vote of 7-4 and SB 111 received Do Pass unanimously. SB 182 received Do Pass unanimously on February 24, and on February 26 SR 247 received Do Pass by a vote of 9-1 while SB 37, SB 167, SB 107 and SB 108 received No Action Taken. On February 28, HB 14 (cornbread as official state bread) received Do Pass by Substitute.
Summary drafted by a model from the document's text below and checked by script against that text before publication. It is a navigation aid, not a reading of what the document proves. Where AI is used
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SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM
Sen. Brandon Beach, Chairman Sen. Mike Hodges, Ex-Officio
District 21 District 3
3100 Brierfield Road 3410 Cypress Mill Rd Box 101
Alpharetta, GA 30004 Brunswick, GA 31525
Sen. Frank Ginn, Vice-Chairman Sen. Donzella James
District 47 District 28
P.O. Box 1136 P.O. Box 311225
Danielsville, GA 30633 Atlanta, GA 30331
Sen. Emanuel Jones, Secretary Sen. Derek Mallow
District 10 District 2
P.O. Box 370244 P.O. Box 14034
Decatur, GA 30037 Savannah, GA 31416
Sen. Tonya Anderson Sen. Josh McLaurin
District 43 District 14
P.O. Box 1026 P.O. Box 567297
Lithonia, GA 30058 Atlanta, GA 31156
Sen. Timothy Bearden, Ex-Officio Sen. Sheikh Rahman
(As of 2/21/25) District 5
District 30 P.O. Box 221
304-B CLOB Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Atlanta, GA 30334
Sen. Carden Summers
Sen. Max Burns District 13
District 45 108 East 13th Avenue
P.O. Box 203 Cordele, GA 31015
Sylvania, GA 30467
Sen. Ben Watson, Ex-Officio
Sen. Clint Dixon, Ex-Officio District 1
District 45 325-A CLOB
P.O. Box 802 Atlanta, GA 30334
Buford, GA 30515
Sen. Sam Watson
Sen. Drew Echols District 11
District 49 P.O. Box 3914
P.O. Box 1600 Moultrie, GA 31776
Gainesville, GA 30503
1
Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism met on Wednesday, February 5,
2025 at 8:00 a.m. in Room 450 of the State Capitol. The following Committee Members were in
attendance:
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
Sen. Frank Ginn (47th), Vice Chairman (Arrived Late)
Sen. Tonya Anderson (43rd) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Max Burns (23rd)
Sen. Clint Dixon (45th), Ex-Officio
Sen. Drew Echols (49th)
Sen. Mike Hodges (3rd), Ex-Officio
Sen. Donzella James (28th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Derek Mallow (2nd)
Sen. Josh McLaurin (14th) (Left Early)
Sen. Sheikh Rahman (5th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Carden Summers (13th)
Sen. Ben Watson (1st), Ex-Officio
Sen. Sam Watson (11th)
NOTE: Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary, was absent.
Chairman Beach (21st) called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
The proposed Committee Rules were reviewed. Sen. Summers (13th) made a motion to Adopt
the Rules. Sen. Ginn (47th) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The Rules of
the Committee appear on the following page.
NOTE: Sen. Ginn (47th) arrived at 8:02 a.m.
SB 38 (Sen. Dolezal, 27th, LC 49 2149) Development Impact Fees; provide for education
SR 52 (Sen. Dolezal, 27th, LC 49 2150) Development Impact Fees for Educational Purposes
-CA
The Chair recognized Sen. Greg Dolezal (27th) for the purpose of presenting the legislation. Sen.
Dolezal (27th) presented the legislation to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for comments. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Stephanie Tanner, Georgia School Board Association
NOTE: Sen. Anderson (43rd) arrived at 8:25 a.m.
2
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
Austin Hackney, Home Builders Association
Hayden Stanley, Apartment Association
NOTE: Sen. James (28th) arrived at 8:32 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Rahman (5th) arrived at 8:36 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. McLaurin (14th) left early at 8:42 a.m.
Committee Recommendation: SB 38 (LC 49 2149) No Action Taken
Committee Recommendation: SR 52 (LC 49 2150) No Action Taken
Chairman Beach (21st) adjourned the meeting at 8:43 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
/s/
Megan Stevens, Recording Secretary
3
SENATE COMMITTEE RULES ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM
2025-2026
1. A quorum for the Committee shall be seven (7) members.
2. The Chair shall determine bills and resolutions to be considered and the order in which
such are called. The Chair also has the discretion as to which amendments to accept and
as to their germaneness.
3. A bill, resolution, or other matter will be considered only after presentation by the principal
author or a legislator whom he/she may designate. In the event more than one member of
the Georgia General Assembly has signed a measure, the principal author shall be the one
whose name appears first in the list of authors.
4. The Committee shall convene, recess, and adjourn upon the order of the Chair.
5. The Rules of the Senate shall prevail in all matters not covered by Committee meeting.
6. These Rules may be amended upon motion duly made and subsequently approved by three-
fourths of the Committee, provided that written notice has been given 48 hours prior to the
Committee meeting.
7. Any member(s) of the Committee who disagree(s) with the majority of the Committee shall
have the privilege to file a minority report.
8. The Chair shall have the authority to refer bills and resolutions to Subcommittees for study.
Such Subcommittees shall have the authority to make recommendations to the full
Committee; but no measure will be returned to the full Senate, except after consideration
by the full Committee.
4
Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism met on Wednesday, February
19, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. in Room 450 of the State Capitol. The following Committee Members
were in attendance:
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
Sen. Frank Ginn (47th), Vice Chairman (Arrived Late)
Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary
Sen. Max Burns (23rd)
Sen. Drew Echols (49th)
Sen. Mike Hodges (3rd), Ex-Officio (Arrived Late)
Sen. Donzella James (28th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Josh McLaurin (14th)
Sen. Sheikh Rahman (5th)
Sen. Carden Summers (13th)
Sen. Ben Watson (1st), Ex-Officio (Arrived Late)
Sen. Sam Watson (11th) (Arrived Late)
NOTE: Sen. Tonya Anderson (43rd), Sen. Clint Dixon (45th), Ex-Officio, and Sen. Derek
Mallow (2nd) were absent.
Chairman Beach (21st) called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
NOTE: Sen Watson (11th) and Sen. Hodges (3rd) arrived at 8:02 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Ginn (47th) and Sen. Watson (1st) arrived at 8:04 a.m.
SB 28 (Sen. Dolezal, 27th, LC 55 0422) "Red Tape Rollback Act of 2025"; enact
The Chair recognized Sen. Dolezal (27th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Sen. Dolezal
(27th) presented the bill to the Committee.
NOTE: Sen. James (28th) arrived at 8:35 a.m.
The Chair opened the floor for questions.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Tony West, Americans for Prosperity
Kennedy Atkins, Georgia Public Policy Foundation
Stefanie Zaenker, LIBRE Initiative
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
None
5
The Chair recognized Sen. Ginn (47th) who made a motion that SB 28 Do Pass by Substitute
(LC 55 0474S). Sen. Summers (13th) seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 7-4.
Sen. Burns (23rd), Sen. Echols (49th), Sen. Ginn (47th), Sen. Hodges (3rd), Sen. Summers
(13th), Sen. Watson (1st), and Sen. Watson (11th) voted in favor of the motion.
Sen. James (28th), Sen. Jones (10th), Sen. McLaurin (14th), and Sen. Rahman (5th) voted
against the motion.
Committee Recommendation: SB 28 DO PASS BY SUBSTITUTE (LC 55 0474S)
SB 111 (Sen. Albers 56th, LC 59 0079) "Georgia Consumer Privacy Protection Act"; enact
The Chair recognized Sen. John Albers (56th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Sen. Albers
(56th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Mason Rainey, Technology Association of Georgia
Dave Williams, Metro Atlanta Chamber
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
None
The Chair recognized Sen. Summers (13th) who made a motion that SB 11 Do Pass (LC 59
0079). Sen. McLaurin (14th) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: SB 111 DO PASS (LC 59 0079)
Chairman Beach (21st) adjourned the meeting at 9:08 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary
/s/
Megan Stevens, Recording Secretary
6
Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
Monday, February 24, 2025
The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism met on Monday, February 24,
2025 at 1:30 p.m. in Mezz 1 of the State Capitol. The following Committee Members were in
attendance:
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
Sen. Frank Ginn (47th), Vice Chairman (Arrived Late)
Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary (Arrived Late)
Sen. Max Burns (23rd) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Clint Dixon (45th), Ex-Officio
Sen. Drew Echols (49th)
Sen. Mike Hodges (3rd), Ex-Officio
Sen. Derek Mallow (2nd) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Josh McLaurin (14th)
Sen. Sheikh Rahman (5th)
Sen. Carden Summers (13th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Ben Watson (1st), Ex-Officio
Sen. Sam Watson (11th)
NOTE: Sen. Tonya Anderson (43rd), Ex-Officio, Sen. Tim Bearden (30th), and Sen. Donzella
James (28th) were absent.
NOTE: Sen. Tim Bearden (30th) was appointed to the Senate Committee on Economic
Development and Tourism by the Committee on Assignments on February 21, 2025. A copy of
the letter of appointment is attached.
Chairman Beach (21st) called the meeting to order at 1:36 p.m.
SB 182 (Sen. Halpern, 39th, LC 59 0080) “Georgia Music Office and Music Ready
Communities Act”; enact
The Chair recognized Sen. Sonya Halpern (39th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Sen.
Halpern (39th) presented the bill to the Committee.
NOTE: Sen. Summers (13th) arrived at 1:39 p.m.
NOTE: Sen. Mallow (2nd) arrived at 1:40 p.m.
NOTE: Sen. Burns (23rd) and Sen. Jones (10th) arrived at 1:41 p.m.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Mala Sharma, Georgia Music Partners
Brian Hudson, The Hudson Group
7
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
None
NOTE: Sen. Ginn (47th) arrived at 1:45 p.m.
The Chair recognized Sen. Summers (13th) who made a motion that SB 182 Do Pass (LC 59
0080). Sen. Mallow (2nd) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: SB 182 DO PASS (LC 59 0080)
Chairman Beach (21st) adjourned the meeting at 8:53 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary
/s/
Megan Stevens, Recording Secretary
8
9
Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism met on Wednesday, February
26, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. in Room 450 of the State Capitol. The following Committee Members
were in attendance:
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
Sen. Frank Ginn (47th), Vice Chairman (Left Early)
Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary
Sen. Tonya Anderson (43rd) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Timothy Bearden (30th), Ex-Officio
Sen. Max Burns (23rd)
Sen. Drew Echols (49th)
Sen. Mike Hodges (3rd), Ex-Officio
Sen. Donzella James (28th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Derek Mallow (2nd)
Sen. Josh McLaurin (14th)
Sen. Sheikh Rahman (5th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Carden Summers (13th)
NOTE: Sen. Clint Dixon (45th), Ex-Officio, Sen. Ben Watson (1st), Ex-Officio, and Sen. Sam
Watson (11th) were absent.
Chairman Beach (21st) called the meeting to order at 8:01 a.m.
SB 37 (Sen. Albers, 56th, LC 59 0049) ‘AI Accountability Act”; enact
The Chair recognized Sen. John Albers (56th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Sen. Albers
(56th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Kaylon Day, Association County Commissioners of Georgia
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
None
The Chair stated that the bill would receive a hearing only.
NOTE: Sen. Rahman (5th) arrived at 8:16 a.m.
Committee Recommendation: SB 37 (LC 59 0049) No Action Taken
SR 247 (Sen. Gooch, 51st, LC 112 3037) Loeffler, Kelly; commend
10
The Chair recognized Sen. Steve Gooch (51st) for the purpose of presenting the resolution. Sen.
Gooch (51st) presented the resolution to the committee.
The Chair recognized Sen. Summers (13th) who made a motion that SR 247 Do Pass (LC 112
3037). Sen. Burns (23rd) seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 9-1.
Sen. Bearden (30th), Sen. Burns (23rd), Sen. Echols (49th), Sen. Ginn (47th), Sen. Hodges (3rd),
Sen. Jones (10th), Sen. Mallow (2nd), Sen. Rahman (5th), and Sen. Summers (13th) voted in
favor of the motion.
Sen. McLaurin (14th) voted against the motion.
Committee Recommendation: SR 247 DO PASS (LC 112 3037)
SB 167 (Sen. Merritt, 9th, LC 56 0255) Commerce and Trade; private entities that employ
certain AI systems to guard against discrimination caused by such systems; provide
The Chair recognized Sen. Nikki Merritt (9th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Sen. Merritt
(9th) presented the bill to the Committee.
NOTE: Sen. Anderson (43rd) arrived at 8:27 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. James (28th) arrived at 8:32 a.m.
The Chair opened the floor for debate.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Matthew Sherer, Center for Democracy and Technology
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
None
The Chair stated that the bill would receive a hearing only.
Committee Recommendation: SB 167 (LC 56 0255) No Action Taken
SB 107 (Sen. James, 28th, LC 55 0442) Specialized Land Transactions; protections of
homeowners in community associations; provide
The Chair recognized Sen. James (28th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Sen. James (28th)
presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
11
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Sen. Freddie Powell Simms (12th)
Rep. Viola Davis (87th)
Testimony in opposition to the bill:
Betsy Bradfield, Georgia Association Realtors
The Chair stated that the bill would receive a hearing only to inform the drafting of a substitute
for the next meeting.
Committee Recommendation: SB 107 (LC 55 0442) No Action Taken
SB 108 (Sen. James, 28th, LC 50 1037) Property Owners’ Associations; certificates of good
standing for payment of annual assessments; provide
The Chair recognized Sen. James (28th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Sen. James (28th)
presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Corro’ll Driskell, Georgia HOA Alliance
Anne McKillips
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
Betsy Bradfield, Georgia Association Realtors
NOTE: Sen. Ginn (47th) left early at 9:04 a.m.
The Chair stated that the bill would receive a hearing only to inform the drafting of a substitute
for the next meeting.
Committee Recommendation: SB 108 (LC 50 1037) No Action Taken
Chairman Beach (21st) adjourned the meeting at 9:11 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary
/s/
Megan Stevens, Recording Secretary
12
Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
Friday, February 28, 2025
The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism met on Friday, February 28,
2025 at 8:00 a.m. in Room 450 of the State Capitol. The following Committee Members were in
attendance:
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
Sen. Frank Ginn (47th), Vice Chairman (Arrived Late and Left Early)
Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary
Sen. Tonya Anderson (43rd) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Timothy Bearden (30th), Ex-Officio
Sen. Max Burns (23rd)
Sen. Mike Hodges (3rd), Ex-Officio (Arrived Late)
Sen. Drew Echols (49th)
Sen. Donzella James (28th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Derek Mallow (2nd)
Sen. Josh McLaurin (14th)
Sen. Carden Summers (13th)
Sen. Sam Watson (11th) (Arrived Late)
NOTE: Sen. Clint Dixon (45th), Ex-Officio, Sen. Sheikh Rahman (5th), and Sen. Ben Watson
(1st), Ex-Officio, were absent.
Chairman Beach (21st) called the meeting to order at 8:01 a.m.
SB 251 (Sen. Jackson, 41st, LC 60 0083) “Fair Business Practices Act of 1975,”; rent
pricing for residential properties; encourage transparency and fairness
The Chair recognized Sen. Kim Jackson (41st) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Sen.
Jackson (41st) presented the bill to the Committee.
NOTE: Sen. Watson (11th) arrived at 8:02 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Ginn (47th) arrived at 8:04 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Hodges (3rd) and Sen. James (28th) arrived at 8:11 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Anderson (43rd) arrived at 8:14 a.m.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
David Wheaton, NAACP LDF
Matthew Nursey, Housing Justice League
Anhton Tran, Housing Justice League
Latresa Chaney
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
13
Haydon Stanley, Ga Apartment Association
Committee Recommendation: SB 251 (LC 60 0083) No Action Taken
NOTE: Sen. Ginn (47th) left early at 8:38 a.m.
SB 107 (Sen. James, 28th, LC 55 0442) Specialized Land Transactions; protections of
homeowners in community associations; provide
The Chair recognized Sen. James (28th) and Sen. McLaurin (14th) for the purpose of presenting
the bill. Sen. McLaurin (14th) presented the bill to the Committee.
NOTE: Sen. Mallow (2nd) left at 8:40 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Mallow (2nd) returned at 8:43 a.m.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Anne McKillips
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
Beth Taylor, Community Associations Institute
The Chair recognized Sen. Mallow (2nd) who made a motion that SB 107 Do Pass by
Substitute. Sen. McLaurin (14th) seconded the motion.
The Chair recognized Sen. McLaurin (14th) who made a motion to Amend by adding the words
“subsidiary, parent, affiliate, or any” on line 109 after the words “nor any”. Sen. Jones (10th)
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
The Chair called for a vote on the motion SB 107 Do Pass by Substitute as amended. The
motion passed by a vote of 10-2.
Sen. Anderson (43rd), Sen. Burns (23rd), Sen. Echols (49th), Sen. James (28rd), Sen. Jones
(10th), Sen. Mallow (2nd), Sen. McLaurin (14th), Sen. Summers (13th), and Sen. Watson (11th)
voted in favor of the motion.
Sen. Bearden (30th) and Sen. Hodges (3rd) voted against the motion.
Committee Recommendation: SB 107 DO PASS BY SUBSTITUTE (LC 59 0123S)
SB 108 (Sen. James, 28th, LC 55 1037) Property Owners' Associations; certificates of good
standing for payment of annual assessments; provide
The Chair recognized Sen. James (28th) and Sen. McLaurin (14th) for the purpose of presenting
the bill. Sen. McLaurin (14th) presented the bill to the Committee.
14
The Chair recognized Sen. McLaurin (14th) who made a motion to Amend by adding language
after line 65, inserting a sub paragraph 5 saying “the association must act in good faith in all
matters relating to the procedure, including, but not limited to, making reasonable efforts to
engage in and conclude the proceeding promptly.” The amendment also added a sub paragraph 6
saying “any association that violates sub paragraph 5 shall be liable for reasonable attorney’s
fees.” Sen. James (28th) seconded the motion.
The Chair opened the floor for discussion.
Sen. McLaurin (14th) made a motion to Withdraw his amendment.
The Chair recognized Sen. McLaurin (14th) who made a motion to Amend by striking “an
association” from lines 71 – 72 and replacing with “the parties”; striking “any association” from
line 76 and replacing with “any party”; and striking “lot owner” on line 76 and replacing with
“aggrieved party”. Sen. Mallow (2nd) seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 10-
1.
Sen. Anderson (43rd), Sen. Bearden (30th), Sen. Echols (49th), Sen. Hodges (3rd), Sen. James
(28th), Sen. Jones (10th), Sen. Mallow (2nd), Sen. McLaurin (14th), Sen. Summers (13th), and
Sen. Watson (11th) voted in favor of the motion.
Sen. Burns (23rd) voted against the motion.
The Chair recognized Sen. McLaurin (14th) who made a motion that SB 108 Do Pass by
Substitute. Sen. Jones (10th) seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 10-1.
Sen. Anderson (43rd), Sen. Bearden (30th), Sen. Echols (49th), Sen. Hodges (3rd), Sen. James
(28th), Sen. Jones (10th), Sen. Mallow (2nd), Sen. McLaurin (14th), Sen. Summers (13th), and
Sen. Watson (11th) voted in favor of the motion.
Sen. Burns (23rd) voted against the motion.
Committee Recommendation: SB 108 DO PASS BY SUBSTITUTE (LC 59 0124S)
Chairman Beach (21st) adjourned the meeting at 9:11 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary
/s/
Megan Stevens, Recording Secretary
15
Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism met on Wednesday, March 12,
2025 at 8:00 a.m. in 450 of the State Capitol. The following Committee Members were in
attendance:
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
Sen. Frank Ginn (47th), Vice Chairman (Arrived Late)
Sen. Timothy Bearden (30th), Ex-Officio
Sen. Max Burns (23rd)
Sen. Greg Dolezal (27th), Ex-Officio (Left Early)
Sen. Drew Echols (49th) (Left Early)
Sen. Mike Hodges (3rd), Ex-Officio
Sen. Donzella James (28th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Josh McLaurin (14th)
Sen. Sheikh Rahman (5th) (Arrived Late)
NOTE: Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary, Sen. Tonya Anderson (43rd), Sen. Clint Dixon
(45th), Ex-Officio, Sen. Derek Mallow (2nd), Sen. Carden Summers (13th), Sen. Ben Watson
(1st), Ex-Officio, and Sen. Sam Watson (11th) were absent.
NOTE: Sen. Dolezal (27th) was appointed to the Senate Committee on Economic Development
and Tourism, as Ex-Officio, by the Committee on Assignments for the meeting held on March
12, 2025. A copy of the letter of appointment is attached.
Chairman Beach (21st) called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Ginn (47th) arrived at 8:01 a.m.
HB 74 (Rep. Powell, 33rd, LC 28 0645) Georgia Lottery for Education Act; correct a
reference
The Chair recognized Rep. Alan Powell (33rd) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep. Powell
(33rd) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair recognized Sen. Ginn (47th) who made a motion that HB 171 Do Pass (LC 28 0645).
Sen. McLaurin (14th) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 171 DO PASS (LC 28 0645)
SR 323 (Sen. Echols, 49th, LC 52 0790) Senate Study Committee on Making Georgia the
No. 1 State for Tourism; create
The Chair recognized Sen. Echols (49th) for the purpose of presenting the resolution. Sen.
Echols (49th) presented the resolution to the Committee.
16
The Chair opened the floor for questions.
The Chair recognized Sen. Hodges (3rd) who made a motion that SR 323 Do Pass (LC 52
0790). Sen. Ginn (47th) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
NOTE: Sen. Echols (49th) left early at 8:08 a.m.
Committee Recommendation: SR 323 DO PASS (LC 52 0790)
HB 233 (Rep. Townsend, 179th, LC 39 4510) State symbols; Brunswick stew as the official
state stew; designate
The Chair stated HB 233 would receive a hearing only.
The Chair recognized Rep. Rick Townsend (179th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep.
Townsend (179th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for questions.
Committee Recommendation: HB 233 (LC 39 4510) No Action Taken
HB 14 (Rep. Carpenter, 4th, LC 55 0345) State symbols; cornbread as official state bread;
designate
The Chair stated HB 14 would receive a hearing only.
The Chair recognized Rep. Kasey Carpenter (4th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep.
Carpenter (4th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for questions.
Committee Recommendation: HB 14 (LC 55 0345) No Action Taken
HB 360 (Rep. Efstration, 104th, LC 50 1163S) Revenue and taxation; rehabilitation of
historic structures; revise tax credit
The Chair recognized Rep. Chuck Efstration (104th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep.
Efstration (104th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for questions.
The Chair recognized Sen. McLaurin (14th) who made a motion that HB 360 Do Pass (LC 50
1163S). Sen. Burns (23rd) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 360 DO PASS (LC 50 1163S)
17
HB 159 (Rep. Crowe, 118th, LC 62 0158S) Georgia Housing and Finance Authority;
increase outstanding bond limit
The Chair recognized Rep. Clint Crowe (118th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep.
Crowe (118th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Wesley Brooks, GA Housing Finance Authority
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
None
The Chair opened the floor for questions.
NOTE: Sen. James (28th) arrived at 8:26 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Dolezal (27th) left early at 8:27 a.m.
The Chair recognized Sen. Ginn (47th) who made a motion that HB 159 Do Pass (LC 62
0158S). Sen. Hodges (3rd) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 159 DO PASS (LC 62 0158S)
HB 475 (Rep. Gambill, 15th, LC 59 0102) Income tax credit; film, gaming, or digital
production; revise a definition
The Chair recognized Rep. Matthew Gambill (15th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep.
Gambill (15th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for questions.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Josh Stephens, Georgia Department of Economic Development
Leigh Thomas, Georgia Film Office
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
None
NOTE: Sen. Rahman (5th) arrived at 8:39 a.m.
The Chair recognized Sen. Ginn (47th) who made a motion that HB 475 Do Pass (LC 59 0102).
Sen. McLaurin (14th) seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 6-1.
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Sen. Bearden (30th), Sen. Burns (23rd), Sen. Ginn (47th), Sen. Hodges (3rd), Sen. McLaurin
(14th), and Sen. Rahman (5th) voted in favor of the motion.
Sen. James (28th) voted against the motion.
Committee Recommendation: HB 475 DO PASS (LC 59 0102)
Chairman Beach (21st) adjourned the meeting at 8:43 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
/s/
Megan Stevens, Recording Secretary
19
20
Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
Wednesday, March 19, 2025
The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism met on Wednesday, March 19,
2025 at 8:00 a.m. in Mezz 1 of the State Capitol. The following Committee Members were in
attendance:
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
Sen. Frank Ginn (47th), Vice Chairman
Sen. Tonya Anderson (43rd) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Max Burns (23rd)
Sen. Drew Echols (49th)
Sen. Mike Hodges (3rd), Ex-Officio
Sen. Derek Mallow (2nd)
Sen. Josh McLaurin (14th)
Sen. Sheikh Rahman (5th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Carden Summers (13th)
Sen. Ben Watson (1st), Ex-Officio
Sen. Sam Watson (11th) (Arrived Late)
NOTE: Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary, Sen. Timothy Bearden (30th), Ex-Officio, Sen.
Clint Dixon (45th), Ex-Officio, and Sen. Donzella James (28th) were absent.
Chairman Beach (21st) called the meeting to order at 8:07 a.m.
HB 455 (Rep. Powell, 33rd, LC 28 0674) Bingo; properties used for games; limit number of
sessions; provisions
The Chair recognized Rep. Alan Powell (33rd) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep. Powell
(33rd) presented the bill to the Committee.
NOTE: Sen. Watson (11th) arrived at 8:17 a.m.
The Chair opened the floor for questions.
NOTE: Sen. Rahman (5th) arrived at 8:20 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Anderson (43rd) arrived at 8:25 a.m.
The Chair recognized Sen. Ginn (47th) who made a motion that HB 455 Do Pass (LC 28 0674).
Sen. Hodges (3rd) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 455 DO PASS (LC 28 0674)
HB 454 (Rep. Gaines, 120th, LC 59 0113S) Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund Act; enact
21
The Chair recognized Rep. Houston Gaines (120th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep.
Gaines (120th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for questions and discussion.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Jeff Mullis, Midnight Rider Consulting
Chris Welton, National American Battlefield Trust
Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
None
The Chair recognized Sen. Burns (23rd) who made a motion that HB 454 Do Pass by Substitute
(LC 59 0143S). Sen. Echols (49th) seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 7-4.
Sen. Burns (23rd), Sen. Echols (49th), Sen. Ginn (47th), Sen. Hodges (3rd), Sen. Summers
(13th), Sen. Watson (1st), and Sen. Watson (11th) voted in favor of the motion.
Sen. Anderson (43rd), Sen. Mallow (2nd), Sen. McLaurin (14th), and Sen. Rahman (5th) voted
against the motion.
Committee Recommendation: HB 454 DO PASS BY SUBSTITUTE (LC 59 0143S)
HB 233 (Rep. Townsend, 179th, LC 39 4510) State symbols; Brunswick stew as the official
state stew; designate
The Chair recognized Rep. Rick Townsend (179th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep.
Townsend (179th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for questions.
The Chair recognized Sen. Hodges (3rd) who made a motion that HB 233 Do Pass by
Substitute (LC 39 4749S). Sen. Ginn (47th) seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 233 DO PASS BY SUBSTITUTE (LC 39 4749S)
HB 399 (Rep. Oliver, 84th, LC 47 3490S) Property; require certain residential landlords to
have in-state staff to manage tenant communications
The Chair recognized Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver (84th) for the purpose of presenting the bill.
Rep. Oliver (84th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for discussion.
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The Chair recognized Sen. Ginn (47th) who made a motion that HB 399 Do Pass by Substitute
(LC 47 3645S). Sen. Mallow (2nd) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 399 DO PASS BY SUBSTITUTE (LC 47 3645S)
HB 216 (Rep. Smith, 138th, LC 59 0065) Richard H. Smith Georgia CHIPS Advancement
in Research and Economic Development Act; enact
The Chair recognized Rep. Vance Smith (138th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep.
Smith (138th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for questions and discussion.
The Chair recognized Sen. McLaurin (14th) who made a motion that HB 216 Do Pass (LC 59
0065). Sen. Ginn (47th) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 216 DO PASS (LC 59 0065)
HB 718 (Rep. Jones, 60th, LC 59 0125) Women's Golf Week; first week of April each year;
provide
The Chair recognized Rep. Sheila Jones (60th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep. Jones
(60th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for questions and discussion.
The Chair recognized Sen. Ginn (47th), who made a motion that HB 718 Do Pass (LC 59 0125).
Sen. Anderson (43rd) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 718 DO PASS (LC 59 0125)
HB 14 (Rep. Carpenter, 4th, LC 55 0345) State symbols; cornbread as official state bread;
designate
The Chair stated the bill would be held until the next meeting for further amendment.
Committee Recommendation: HB 14 (LC 55 0345) No Action Taken
HB 466 (Rep. Cameron, 1st, LC 62 0080) State symbols; marsh tacky horse as official
Georgia heritage horse breed; designate
The Chair recognized Rep. Mike Cameron (1st) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Rep.
Cameron (1st) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for questions and discussion.
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The Chair recognized Sen. Mallow (2rd) who made a motion that HB 466 Do Pass (LC 62
0080). Sen. Rahman (5th) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 466 DO PASS (LC 62 0080)
Chairman Beach (21st) adjourned the meeting at 8:55 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
/s/
Megan Stevens, Recording Secretary
24
Minutes of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
The Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism met on Tuesday, March 25,
2025 at 8:00 a.m. in Room 450 of the State Capitol. The following Committee Members were in
attendance:
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
Sen. Frank Ginn (47th), Vice Chairman (Arrived Late)
Sen. Timothy Bearden (30th), Ex-Officio
Sen. Max Burns (23rd)
Sen. Mike Hodges (3rd), Ex-Officio
Sen. Drew Echols (49th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Derek Mallow (2nd)
Sen. Josh McLaurin (14th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Sheikh Rahman (5th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Carden Summers (13th) (Arrived Late)
Sen. Ben Watson (1st), Ex-Officio
NOTE: Sen. Emanuel Jones (10th), Secretary, Sen. Tonya Anderson (43rd), Sen. Clint Dixon
(45th), Ex-Officio, Sen. Donzella James (28th), and Sen. Sam Watson (11th) were absent.
Chairman Beach (21st) called the meeting to order at 8:03 a.m.
The Chair recognized Rena Pec and Joe Cook of Georgia Rivers Association for a presentation.
NOTE: Sen. Ginn (47th) arrived at 8:07 a.m.
NOTE: Sen. Echols (49th) arrived at 8:18 a.m.
HB 14 (Rep. Carpenter, 4th, LC 59 0345) State symbols; cornbread as official state bread;
designate
NOTE: Sen. McLaurin (14th) and Sen. Rahman (5th) arrived at 8:33 a.m.
The Chair recognized Sen. Sonya Halpern (39th) for the purpose of presenting the bill. Sen.
Halpern (39th) presented the bill to the Committee.
The Chair opened the floor for public testimony. He recognized the following:
Testimony in favor of the Bill:
Matt Campbell, B.I.G. Entertainment
Honnie Korngold, South Georgia Studios
Brian Hudson, The Hudson Group
NOTE: Sen. Summers (13th) arrived at 8:50 a.m.
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Testimony in opposition to the Bill:
None
The Chair recognized Sen. Ginn (47th) who made a motion that HB 14 Do Pass by Substitute
and to further Amend the substitute by striking lines 7-13 and section 2 of the bill. Sen. Mallow
(2nd) seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
The Chair recognized Sen. McLaurin (14th) who made a motion to Amend by striking lines 1-6
up to “;” and striking lines 22-281 and renumbering accordingly to remove the post production
tax credit from the bill. Sen. Burns (23rd) seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of
6-4.
Sen. Bearden (30th), Sen. Burns (23rd), Sen. Ginn (47th), Sen. McLaurin (14th), Sen. Rahman
(5th), and Sen. Summers (13th) voted in favor of the motion.
Sen. Echols (49th), Sen. Hodges (3rd), Sen. Mallow (2nd), and Sen. Watson (1st) voted against
the motion.
The Chair called for a vote on the underlying motion HB 14 Do Pass by Substitute. The motion
passed unanimously.
Committee Recommendation: HB 14 DO PASS BY SUBSTITUTE (LC 59 0165S)
Chairman Beach (21st) adjourned the meeting at 9:02 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/
Sen. Brandon Beach (21st), Chairman
/s/
Megan Stevens, Recording Secretary
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