By Representative James Burchett (176th District)
It’s been another busy week up in Atlanta at the Georgia House of Representatives – the pace under the Gold Dome is at a full sprint right now.
With Crossover Day approaching on March 6 – the deadline by which a bill must pass at least one chamber – we are working overtime. But no matter how chaotic it gets in Atlanta, my focus as your representative is first and foremost on families back home in South Georgia. Here is a quick look at what we’ve been working on to keep our state moving in the right direction.
Putting Your Hard-Earned Money Back in Your Pocket
If there is one word that defines this session, it’s affordability. We know the cost of living has been hitting kitchen tables and small businesses hard. That’s why I am proud of our continuing efforts to cut your taxes.
The House continues to move forward our legislation to eliminate property taxes on Georgia homeowners, while the Governor and Senate are advocating for their own initiatives to reduce the burden on Georgia taxpayers.
Whatever the result of the legislative process this session on taxes, rest assured that I will support keeping more of your money in your pocket at home – not in the state of Georgia’s bank accounts in Atlanta.
Reducing the Cost of Insurance
When we enacted historic lawsuit reform legislation last session, one of the goals we had was keeping insurance rates in check. We are working toward that effort aggressively in the House, advancing some of the ideas from our Blue Ribbon study committee to increase transparency and reduce prices.
Childhood Literacy
Every child in Georgia has the right to learn to read. That should be common sense – but for too long, some kids have slipped through the cracks. That’s why the House, led by Chairman Chris Erwin and Speaker Jon Burns, is considering legislation that will put the focus on literacy in the early grades, with literacy coaches in every Georgia elementary school and a Georgia Literacy Task Force in the Office of Student Achievement.
Looking Ahead
As always, remember that my door is always open whether in Waycross or under the Gold Dome. I am here to serve you. This session moves fast, and your input is the most important tool I have.
If you or a group from our district are planning a trip to Atlanta, please let us know.
My office can help coordinate visits to the Capitol, and I always make time to meet with folks from home. Whether it’s a concern about a specific bill, a business issue, or just to say hello, please don’t hesitate to email me at james.burchett@house.ga.gov or call my office at (404) 656-5024.
It is the privilege of a lifetime to represent District 176. Let’s get to work.
Representative James Burchett represents the citizens of District 176, which includes Atkinson and Lanier Counties, as well as portions of Coffee, Lowndes and Ware counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2019 and currently serves as the House Majority Whip.
