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News releases, reports, statements and associated documents covering state government, cities and counties.
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Okla. State Senate: Senator Garvin Secures Senate Passage of Women's Bill of Rights
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, April 24 -- The Oklahoma State Senate issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
The Oklahoma Senate on Tuesday passed the Women's Bill of Rights, which updates state law to ensure all statutory references to women refer to a person's biological sex and, specifically, individuals who were born female.
Sen. Jessica Garvin, R-Duncan, is the principal Senate author on House Bill 1449, a carryover measure from the 2023 legislative session that clarifies how state law defines females and males by defining 'sex' as a person's biological sex, a designation assigned
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OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, April 24 -- The Oklahoma State Senate issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
The Oklahoma Senate on Tuesday passed the Women's Bill of Rights, which updates state law to ensure all statutory references to women refer to a person's biological sex and, specifically, individuals who were born female.
Sen. Jessica Garvin, R-Duncan, is the principal Senate author on House Bill 1449, a carryover measure from the 2023 legislative session that clarifies how state law defines females and males by defining 'sex' as a person's biological sex, a designation assignedat birth.
It also prohibits unfair sex discrimination while also allowing state government to make distinctions between the sexes in certain situations. The government could differentiate between the sexes to ensure privacy and safety in restrooms, athletic facilities, locker rooms, domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, prisons and other detention facilities. The state and any political subdivisions that collect vital statistics would have to identify individuals as male or female under the updated definitions in HB 1449.
"The Women's Bill of Rights will protect Oklahoma women at a time when the Biden administration continues to push its deeply flawed gender ideology," Garvin said. "I look forward to my daughters growing up in a state that prioritizes protecting the hard-fought rights of biological women while also ensuring their safety and security. Additionally, after my mother's cancer diagnosis, I learned that having accurate health data that differentiates between biological males and females can be key to finding the right treatment because some therapies work better for women than men. This common-sense measure simply codifies the definition of a biological female and a biological male so there's no confusion in Oklahoma health statistics or state law."
This measure passed the Senate 35-7 and now returns to the House, where it was introduced by Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin.
"Unfortunately, we continue to see attacks nationwide on the integrity of women-only spaces," Hasenbeck said. "Inviting biological men into spaces where women are vulnerable sets an incredibly dangerous precedent and, frankly, tells women that society doesn't care about their safety. By passing the Women's Bill of Rights into statute, Oklahoma is standing up to protect women of all backgrounds from those with ill intentions."
The Women's Bill of Rights would also take steps to codify an executive order Gov. Kevin Stitt signed last year.
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Original text here: https://oksenate.gov/press-releases/senator-garvin-secures-senate-passage-womens-bill-rights?back=/press-releases
Okla. State Senate: Hamilton Wins Approval for Bill to Streamline Agency Purchasing
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, April 24 -- The Oklahoma State Senate issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, serves as the Senate author of House Bill 1010, which received approval from the full Senate Monday. HB 1010 streamlines central purchasing processes for state agencies, resulting in cost savings and increased government efficiency.
"This legislation will be incredibly beneficial for agencies with offices in counties that do not have statewide contracted vendors," Hamilton said. "Often times, these agencies have to leave the county or the state
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OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma, April 24 -- The Oklahoma State Senate issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, serves as the Senate author of House Bill 1010, which received approval from the full Senate Monday. HB 1010 streamlines central purchasing processes for state agencies, resulting in cost savings and increased government efficiency.
"This legislation will be incredibly beneficial for agencies with offices in counties that do not have statewide contracted vendors," Hamilton said. "Often times, these agencies have to leave the county or the stateto purchase materials, which is unnecessary and costly when they could purchase the same items at a local business. I appreciate those who have played a role in getting this practical policy to the governor's desk."
Under HB 1010, agencies may purchase up to $2500 in equipment or supplies from a local business at or below state contract pricing, without having to first obtain a waiver from the purchasing division.
Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener, is the House author of the measure.
"This is an important issue, especially in rural counties that border other states where quick access to large suppliers is not always an option. I'm glad to see this passed in the Senate and thank Senator Hamilton for authoring and stewarding this bill," West said.
Upon being signed into law, the provisions of House Bill 1010 will become effective Nov. 1.
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Original text here: https://oksenate.gov/press-releases/hamilton-wins-approval-bill-streamline-agency-purchasing?back=/press-releases%3Fas_occt%3Dany%26as_q%3D9o08kx%26as_qdr%3Dall%26back%3Dhttps%253A/www.google.com/search%253Fclient%253Dsafari%26safe%3Dactive
N.Y. Labor Dept. Releases Preliminary March 2024 Area Unemployment Rates
ALBANY, New York, April 24 (TNSres) -- The New York State Department of Labor issued the following news on April 23, 2024:
The New York State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for March 2024. Rates are calculated using methods prescribed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The State's area unemployment rates rely in part on the results of the Current Population Survey, which contacts approximately 3,100 households in New York State each month. To recap last week's statewide press release, New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased
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ALBANY, New York, April 24 (TNSres) -- The New York State Department of Labor issued the following news on April 23, 2024:
The New York State Department of Labor today released preliminary local area unemployment rates for March 2024. Rates are calculated using methods prescribed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The State's area unemployment rates rely in part on the results of the Current Population Survey, which contacts approximately 3,100 households in New York State each month. To recap last week's statewide press release, New York State's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreasedfrom 4.4% in February to 4.3% in March 2024.
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Chart: Local Area Unemployment Rates* (%) March 2023 and March 2024 (not seasonally adjusted)
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The data in the preceding table are not seasonally adjusted, which means they reflect seasonal influences (e.g., holiday and summer hires). Therefore, the most valid comparisons with this type of data are year-to-year comparisons of the same month, for example, March 2023 versus March 2024. Labor force data for the current month are preliminary and subject to revision as more information becomes available the following month. Revised estimates for prior months are available at: https://dol.ny.gov/local-area-unemployment-statistics
Labor force statistics, including the unemployment rate, for New York and every other state are based on statistical regression models specified by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These are the most up-to-date estimates of persons employed and unemployed by place of residence. Estimates are available for New York State, labor market regions, metropolitan areas, counties and municipalities with population of at least 25,000
Jobs and Unemployment Fact Sheet
This fact sheet conveys important technical information that will contribute to a better understanding of labor force data ("household survey"), including resident employment/unemployment rates, and jobs by industry data ("business survey"), which are presented in the New York State Department of Labor's monthly press release.
State Unemployment Rates Based on Regression Model
Beginning with data for January 1996, unemployment rates for New York State and all other states (as well as New York City and the City of Los Angeles) have been estimated using time-series regression statistical models developed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Advantage of Regression Model
Use of a time-series regression model reduces the month-to-month variation in unemployment rates and resident employment by reducing variation caused by sampling errors and other components of statistical noise (irregularities).
Benchmarking of Estimates
Once each year, labor force estimates, such as civilian labor force and the unemployment rate, are revised to reflect updated input data including new Census Bureau populations controls, newly revised establishment jobs data and new state-level annual average data from the Current Population Survey (CPS). As part of this procedure, all state figures are reviewed, revised as necessary and then re- estimated. This process is commonly referred to as "benchmarking."
Changes in Methodology
Labor force estimates are now produced with an improved time-series regression model, which utilizes "real-time" benchmarking. "Real-time" benchmarking reduces end-of-year revisions, which also means that major economic events will be reflected in a more-timely manner in state labor force estimates.
In addition, the new methodology includes an updated way of estimating for sub-state areas (e.g. counties, metro areas) the number of unemployed who are new entrants or re-entrants into the labor force. This change in methodology will result in lower unemployment rates in some areas and increased rates in others.
Unemployed and UI Beneficiaries
The estimate of the number of unemployed includes all persons who had no employment during the reference week (the week including the 12th of the month), were available for work, except for temporary illness, and had made specific efforts to find employment sometime during the 4-week period ending with the reference week. Unemployment insurance (UI) beneficiaries include those who apply for and qualify for UI benefits. Consequently, the estimate of the number of unemployed and the number of UI beneficiaries do not necessarily move in tandem.
Jobs Data
Jobs data are obtained from a separate joint federal-state survey of business establishments. The survey, called the Current Employment Statistics of Establishments, samples establishments in New York State. It excludes self-employed workers, agricultural workers, unpaid family workers and domestic workers employed by private households. This data represents a count of jobs by place of work. Data for each month is revised the following month as more complete information becomes available.
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Original text here: https://dol.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2024/04/state-labor-department-releases-preliminary-march-2024-area-unemployment-rates.pdf
N.J. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION DEPT.: MURPHY ADMINISTRATION CELEBRATES EARTH WEEK BY PROPOSING $117 MILLION IN GREEN ACRES PROGRAM INVESTMENTS IN PARKS, COMMUNITY RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE
TRENTON, New Jersey, April 24 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
Governor Phil Murphy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette today announced $117 million in recommended Green Acres funding for development and enhancement of parks and preservation of open space. Representing the highest level of Green Acres project funding since 2009, the DEP's recommended funding package reflects the Administration's commitment to overburdened communities and inclusive recreation.
The funding recommendations, announced
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TRENTON, New Jersey, April 24 -- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
Governor Phil Murphy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette today announced $117 million in recommended Green Acres funding for development and enhancement of parks and preservation of open space. Representing the highest level of Green Acres project funding since 2009, the DEP's recommended funding package reflects the Administration's commitment to overburdened communities and inclusive recreation.
The funding recommendations, announcedin celebration of Earth Week, will improve recreation opportunities for residents across New Jersey and now advance to the independent Garden State Preservation Trust (GSPT) for review, approval and submission to the New Jersey Legislature for appropriation.
Commissioner LaTourette joined with local and state officials to announce the recommended investments during an Earth Week event at The Monroe Community Garden and Park in Monroe Township, Middlesex County, which is among the 49 completely inclusive playground projects recommended for funding. The DEP is recommending $33 million to significantly expand the number of completely inclusive playgrounds for differently abled children. For a complete list of projects recommended for funding, and to learn more about the Green Acres Program, visit http://www.NJGreenAcres.org
"New Jersey is poised to make a historically significant investment in its parks and the people who depend on them for recreation, open space and a sense of community for all," Governor Murphy said. "The grants and loans proposed for these projects will provide opportunities for residents and visitors alike - across the Garden State - to engage in healthy activities, enjoy the outdoors and spend quality family time together."
"The Murphy Administration recognizes the importance of ensuring that outdoor recreation is not only inclusive for all individuals, but safe in terms of quality equipment and surfaces," Commissioner LaTourette said. "As we celebrate Earth Week, it is especially meaningful that we are adding playgrounds throughout New Jersey to give more children the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and connect with one another, while also expanding the public's inventory of open space and lands statewide."
"Since its establishment in 1961, the Green Acres Program has dutifully protected New Jersey's natural and cultural gems, preserving more than 681,000 acres of open space and aiding over 1,200 park initiatives. Green Acres perpetuates a tradition of conservation and recreation for future generations," said 14th District Senator Linda R. Greenstein. "Monroe Township's plan for the Monroe Community Garden mirrors this legacy, embodying stewardship and community enhancement, fostering a sustainable connection between nature and residents that will endure through time."
"During the Earth Week celebration, it is crucial that we make efforts to restore our planet. The introduction of the Green Acres funding is a remarkable step toward ensuring equal access to parks throughout our state," said 14th District Assemblywoman Tennille R. McCoy. "This initiative not only enhances recreational options but also fosters community well-being and environmental responsibility. I commend New Jersey's dedication to improving our parks and providing new recreational opportunities across the state. These projects not only help mitigate the effects of climate change but also enhance the overall quality of life for everyone."
"We thank the Department of Environmental Protection for their commitment to and investment in the completely inclusive playground project to help 49 playgrounds across the state become more inclusive and provide equitable access to recreational activities and spaces in the community. This effort aligns with our Inclusive Healthy Communities program to make New Jersey inclusive for all where they live, work and play," said Department of Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman.
"We are thrilled with the opportunity to improve The Monroe Township Community Garden Park as envisioned in our Master Plan thanks in large part to this funding," said Monroe Township Mayor Stephen Dalina. "I would like to thank Governor Murphy and Commissioner LaTourette and our 14th Legislative District representatives for their significant investment in this much anticipated project."
Green Acres funding allows local governments and nonprofits to leverage millions of additional preservation dollars through matching federal, state, county and local funds, as well as from private sources. Many of the projects recommended for funding this year address inclusivity and recreation for all, especially in Overburdened Communities.
For this funding round, Green Acres expanded a 2023 county-focused pilot program, inviting municipalities to also apply for grants to create completely inclusive playgrounds, constructed in compliance with standards established by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
BY THE NUMBERS
Green Acres has recommended $108 million in projects to the GSPT, including:
* $24.3 million for 29 local (municipal and county) land acquisition projects;
* $40.1 million for 40 local projects developing parks and recreational facilities;
* $33.1 million for local development of 49 completely inclusive playgrounds;
* $1.8 million for six local stewardship projects;
* $5.7 million for 11 acquisition projects by nonprofit organizations;
* $3.6 million for four nonprofit recreational development; and
* $309,000 for two nonprofit stewardship projects.
Once approved by GSPT and appropriated by the Legislature, these funds will help create new parks, expand and revitalize existing parks, acquire land, improve waterfront access, develop athletic fields and playgrounds, create open space and enhance land stewardship.
In addition to these projects, DEP has approved $8.6 million in Urban Parks grants for park development projects serving Adversely Stressed Overburdened Communities in Urban Aid municipalities.
The DEP prioritized Green Acres and Urban Parks projects that contribute to resilience or mitigate climate change impacts by protecting forested and flood-prone areas, enhancing chronically inundated wetlands, revegetating riparian areas, connecting wildlife corridors, expanding upstream flooding attenuation potential, promoting wildlife and/or including green infrastructure.
Funding proposed for these projects comes from both the DEP's Green Acres Program, funded by the Corporate Business Tax, and the Urban Parks Program, which is funded by a state budget appropriation.
"The Green Acres Program looks forward to working with our local government and nonprofit partners to complete these critically important acquisition and park development projects," said Martha Sullivan Sapp, Green Acres program Director. "We are funding projects in every county in New Jersey, ensuring residents and visitors have high quality, close-to-home parks and open spaces to enjoy."
INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND PROJECTS
The most significant change in this year's funding recommendations is a major expansion in the eligibility and number of Jake's Law projects, resulting in the approval of 49 completely inclusive playgrounds in 16 counties. For the second year, Green Acres is recommending 75% matching grant funding for these types of projects, expanding from only counties in 2023 to counties and municipalities in this funding round.
Among the completely inclusive playground projects recommended for $1 million each in matching funds are:
* Saddle River County Park in Bergen County would have accessible play equipment for various age groups, safety surfacing, replacement of existing lawn and landscaped areas, seating and a fence around the playground perimeter.
* The existing playground at Washington Park in Union City, Hudson County would be replaced with a fully accessible and inclusive playground serving residents of all abilities.
* Inclusive playground equipment with fencing and a paved area for small children to learn how to ride a bike or self-propelled wheeled vehicles are proposed for South County Park in West Amwell, Hunterdon County.
In addition to these projects, another 23 completely inclusive playgrounds are recommended to receive grants of $750,000 and 23 others would receive grants ranging from $330,000 to $915,000.
URBAN PARKS PROJECTS
Although land acquisition and historic preservation projects are also eligible for Urban Parks funding, all 14 requests received this year are for recreational park development projects. These types of projects can include games and sports, picnicking, fishing, biking, swimming, nature and historic interpretation, or similar activities.
Fourteen local governments in 11 counties will receive funding for projects in their communities. Among them:
* The growing popularity of pickleball in Willingboro Township, Burlington County, has the community proposing new pickleball courts and a walkway at Millcreek Park that meets Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
* Six pickleball courts are among the amenities proposed for City Park in Bridgeton, Cumberland County, along with fencing, parking and lighting for existing basketball courts.
* Hoboken in Hudson County would enhance 800 Monroe Resiliency Park with tennis courts, walking paths, gardens, a splash pad, dog run and green infrastructure, complementing a sub-surface flood resilience plan for the site.
* New Brunswick in Middlesex County would transform Alec E. Baker Park with multiple improvements. These include a splash pad, fitness circuit equipment, a walking/jogging path, dog park, picnic area, soccer field, basketball court and playground renovations.
* Seidler Field in Plainfield, Union County, would receive inclusive playground equipment, a rubber safety surface and landscape improvements.
* Inclusive and accessible playground equipment, along with a new safety surface, benches and picnic tables, are proposed for Mercer Street Park in Phillipsburg, Warren County.
GREEN ACRES PROJECTS
Major local projects approved for matching grants of $1 million or more include:
ATLANTIC COUNTY
Atlantic City would make bikeway improvements to the scenic Gardner's Basin Waterfront Park and parking areas. Funds would also enhance signage, landscaping, lighting and electric vehicle charging stations.
BERGEN COUNTY
* The county wants to transform a greenway at Carlton Hill Bergen County Greenway Park in East Rutherford and Rutherford with paved pathways, seating, landscaped areas and fencing.
* Columbus Park in Garfield would be enhanced with passive and active recreation activities including an amphitheater, fountain, playgrounds and paths for biking, walking and jogging. A restroom building, parking improvements and stormwater management facilities are also proposed.
* Wood-Ridge Borough would put additional funding toward acquisition of an 11.8-acre property next to a new residential development for active and passive recreational pursuits including trails, a dog run, multi-purpose field, playground and restrooms.
BURLINGTON COUNTY
Mount Holly proposed an athletic field and canoe launch at Iron Works Park. The township also proposes lighting, walkways, bleachers and ADA parking.
CAMDEN COUNTY
Cooper River Park in Camden proposes enhancing Cooper River Park with a playground, fitness equipment, shade structures and landscaping.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
An inclusive playground featuring a sensory garden, exercise circuit stations around an existing running/walking track, and a new restroom facility are proposed for the Joseph E. Romano Sports Complex in Vineland.
ESSEX COUNTY
* Watsessing Park in East Orange would receive new playground equipment, updated playground safety surfacing, fence replacements, walkways and accessible seating.
* Belleville Municipal Stadium in Belleville would receive structural and accessibility renovations to grandstands and restrooms and undergo reconstruction of concrete stands for wheelchair accessibility and improvements to the concession stand.
* Newark, in partnership with the Trust for Public Land, proposes developing Broadway Park for playgrounds, playing fields, additional lighting, art, rain gardens and a community garden.
* Colgate Park in Orange would replace the existing asphalt circulation path, rehabilitate the gazebo area, add new playground equipment and enhance landscaping.
* Cameron Recreation Area in South Orange would receive new tennis and pickleball courts, a picnic grove, seating area with tables, two basketball half-courts and a porous surface circulation path with fitness stations. The area also would receive native riparian buffer plantings to help reduce stormwater runoff into an adjacent stream at the nearby Meadowland Park and downtown area.
HUDSON COUNTY
* Bayonne would continue developing its Newark Bay Waterfront Access Project, also known as 16th Street Park, to stabilize the shoreline, expand the boardwalk, install street-end access ramps and a fishing pier, improve the existing revetment and reconstruct the boat ramp.
* Hoboken would continue to make improvements to Southwest Park, including athletic courts, play structures and other features. The proposed project would complement a subsurface detention tank with the capacity to capture 600,000 gallons of stormwater.
MERCER COUNTY
The former American Biltrite Rubber Site in Trenton would be converted and transformed into the proposed Amtico Square Skatepark Complex with night sky friendly lighting and a shade structure. Several multi-purpose game courts would be constructed at the park for bicycle polo, street soccer, tennis, basketball and volleyball. A trail would be built along the creek toward Capital City Farm and the D&R Canal Towpath.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
* Carteret proposes expanding Waterfront Park with an accessible walkway from the park to Noes Creek that includes a boardwalk, railing, lighting and site furnishings. Part of the walkway would extend out over the water for a scenic overlook.
* Perth Amboy will renovate fields at the Veterans Memorial Youth League Complex for baseball, soccer and lacrosse. An expanded patio and picnic area with a shade structure would be added, along with sheltered dugouts, scoreboards, landscaping, fencing, stormwater management improvements and a walking trail connecting the complex to nearby Willow Pond Park.
PASSAIC COUNTY
* Two significant projects are proposed in Paterson. The first is continued historic restoration and landscaping of Passaic County's Lambert Castle by enhancing a planting area, restoring an irrigated lawn area, reconstructing a trellis structure walkway and statuary exhibit space, and making accessibility improvements. Paterson also plans improvements to Vista Park that call for 40,000 square feet of green space, pathways, an amphitheater, new playgrounds, observation deck, outdoor classroom space and more. Vista Park offers views of the city, Garret Mountain County Reservation and Paterson Great Falls National Park.
* Passaic plans to add spray pads, shade structures, pervious surfacing, climbing structures, inclusive equipment, bicycle racks and more to Colonel Johnson Park.
UNION COUNTY
* A second phase of improvements is recommended for the Rushmore Avenue Recreational Complex in Plainfield. The existing children's pool would be replaced with a splash pad and the current adult pool would be expanded to competition-size. A pool shade structure, shaded picnic area lounging area and spectator seating are also proposed.
* Weber Park in Union Township would get a new soccer field with bleachers, field light and a shade structure with barbecue grills. The existing athletic courts for handball, tennis and basketball would be renovated.
WARREN COUNTY
Phillipsburg would initiate a rails-to-trails project by acquiring an existing rail bed that runs through much of the town. The city intends to transform the property into trails that would enhance the downtown, offer community recreation opportunities and provide habitat for wildlife.
ABOUT GREEN ACRES
New Jersey's Green Acres program was created in 1961 to meet the state's growing recreation and conservation needs. Together with public and private partners, Green Acres has protected nearly 725,000 acres of open space and provided hundreds of outdoor recreational facilities in communities around the state. To date, the total acreage of protected open space and farmland across New Jersey exceeds 1.5 million acres.
Green Acres projects create jobs and stimulate economic development by making communities more attractive places to live and work, consequently boosting civic pride. They also improve air and water quality, providing residents with a better quality of life.
The DEP is a partner in the Governor's Population Health Challenge, which calls on state agencies to promote public health through their policies. Studies have found that investments in parks and recreational amenities positively impact health and fitness, resulting in less strain on the health-care system. Studies also demonstrate that people are likely to be more physically active if they live close to parks and recreational facilities.
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Original text here: https://www.nj.gov/dep/newsrel/2024/24_0014.htm
Ga. Lt. Gov. Jones Social Media Priority Signed Into Law
ATLANTA, Georgia, April 24 -- Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, R-Georgia, issued the following statement on April 23, 2024:
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Today, Lt. Governor Burt Jones issued a statement on the signing of Senate Bill 351, the Lt. Governor's priority Protecting Georgia's Children on Social Media Act.
"The health and safety of our children should always be a parent's number one priority," said Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones. "I am proud to have prioritized this legislation to help protect our children online and combat the very serious epidemic of cyberbullying which plagues this country. I want to thank Governor
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ATLANTA, Georgia, April 24 -- Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, R-Georgia, issued the following statement on April 23, 2024:
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Today, Lt. Governor Burt Jones issued a statement on the signing of Senate Bill 351, the Lt. Governor's priority Protecting Georgia's Children on Social Media Act.
"The health and safety of our children should always be a parent's number one priority," said Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones. "I am proud to have prioritized this legislation to help protect our children online and combat the very serious epidemic of cyberbullying which plagues this country. I want to thank GovernorKemp and Speaker Burns for their support of our efforts to protect Georgia's next generation, and I look forward to continuing to combat cyberbullying and improving children's mental health in our state."
For more information on Senate Bill 351, please click here (https://ga-00-senate.web.fireside21.app/components/redirect/r.aspx?ID=392-7219002).
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Original text here: https://ltgov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2024-04-23/lt-governor-burt-jones-social-media-priority-signed-law
Ga. Gov. Kemp Signs Legislation Strengthening Education System in Georgia
ATLANTA, Georgia, April 24 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release:
Governor Brian P. Kemp, accompanied by First Lady Marty Kemp, Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, members of the General Assembly, and state and local leaders, signed a comprehensive package of education legislation into law, including SB 233 - providing Georgia students in underperforming schools with greater freedom and choice in their education.
Sponsored by Senator Greg Dolezal, signed by Senators Matt Brass, Shawn Still, Ed Setzler, and Steve Gooch, carried in the House by Speaker
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ATLANTA, Georgia, April 24 -- Gov. Brian P. Kemp, R-Georgia, issued the following news release:
Governor Brian P. Kemp, accompanied by First Lady Marty Kemp, Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, members of the General Assembly, and state and local leaders, signed a comprehensive package of education legislation into law, including SB 233 - providing Georgia students in underperforming schools with greater freedom and choice in their education.
Sponsored by Senator Greg Dolezal, signed by Senators Matt Brass, Shawn Still, Ed Setzler, and Steve Gooch, carried in the House by SpeakerPro Tempore Jan Jones, and heard in the House Committee on Education by Chairman Chris Erwin and the Senate Committee on Education and Youth by Chairman Clint Dixon, SB 233 creates a promise scholarship of $6,500 for each participating student that can be used towards qualified education expenses including tuition, fees, textbooks, and tutoring among others.
Students qualify for the scholarship if they meet requirements including having been enrolled in a public school for two consecutive enrollment counts (unless they would be entering kindergarten), being zoned for a school in the lowest 25 percent of all public schools, with priority for participation being given to economically disadvantaged students and students who were previous participants.
"There is nothing more important to the continued success of our state than safeguarding and strengthening the lives, education and future of our students, and that can only be accomplished by ensuring Georgia students have access to as many opportunities and choices as possible that will set them up for success" said Governor Brian Kemp. "As I stated in my State of the State address, we can and must take an all-of-the-above approach to K-12 education, and thanks to Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, Speaker Pro Tempore Jan Jones and Senator Greg Dolezal keeping this issue a priority, Georgia is affording greater choice to families as to how and where they receive their education, while also continuing our efforts to strengthen public schools, support teachers, and secure our classrooms. This could not have been accomplished without their diligent work and the support of our additional partners in the General Assembly.
In addition to the creation of the Promise Scholarship, SB 233, among other things, also allows students to attend a public school outside of their resident system without needing the approval of said system and increases the tax credit for donations to the Georgia Foundation for Public Education. The maximum amount of tax credits allowed is raised by $10 million with the requirement that all of these additional funds must go to the schools who have performed in the lowest 25 percent.
Along with SB 233, Governor Kemp signed six additional pieces of legislation included below:
HB 318, sponsored by Representative Scott Hilton, signed by Speaker Pro Tempore Jan Jones and Representatives Matt Dubnick, Brad Thomas, Mesha Mainor, and Todd Jones, carried in the Senate by Senator Shelly Echols, and heard in the House Committee on Education by Chairman Chris Erwin and the Senate Committee on Education and Youth by Chairman Clint Dixon, moves the Office of Charter School Compliance from the Georgia Department of Education to the State Charter Schools Commission and allows them to assist local school systems in their role as charter school authorizers. Additionally, the criteria for low-wealth capital outlay grants are changed to give districts more time to plan their use of the funds.
HB 318 also included attached legislation sponsored by Representatives Tim Fleming and John Corbett.
HB 409, sponsored by Representative Lauren Daniel, signed by Representatives James Burchett, Trey Kelley, Matt Reeves, Rob Everett, and Stacey Evans, carried in the Senate by Senator Rick Williams, and heard in the House Committee on Government Affairs by Chairman John Lahood and the Senate Committee on Education and Youth by Chairman Clint Dixon, directs school systems to consider not having stops where a student would have to cross a roadway with a speed limit of 40 miles per hour or greater. It also increases the penalty for passing a stopped school bus to $1,000, following the death of 8-year-old Addy Pierce who was struck by a motorist as she boarded her school bus.
The bill also allows charter schools to utilize teachers or other staff who are employees of an education service provider as long as the school's board maintains the authority over their selection and dismissal.
Ashley Pierce, the mother of Addy Pierce, passionately advocated for and was instrumental in the passage of this legislation.
HB 1122, sponsored by Representative Scott Hilton, signed by Speaker Pro Tempore Jan Jones and Representatives Matt Dubnick, Bethany Ballard, Segun Adeyina, and Todd Jones, carried in the Senate by Senator Matt Brass, and heard in the House Committee on Education by Chairman Chris Erwin and the Senate Committee on Education and Youth by Chairman Clint Dixon, provides state charter schools that have over 1,000 students, funding for a superintendent. State and local charter schools will also receive funding for principals. It also allows for children of part-time charter school employees to attend the school their parent teaches at and low-level local system employees to serve on the board of a state charter school.
SB 351, sponsored by Senator Jason Anavitarte, signed by Senators Randy Robertson, Matt Brass, John Kennedy, Steve Gooch, and Shawn Still, carried in the House by Representative Scott Hilton, and heard in the House Committee on Education by Chairman Chris Erwin and the Senate Committee on Education and Youth by Chairman Clint Dixon, requires the Department of Education and local boards to adopt policies on social media, cyberbullying, and internet usage. It requires that social media companies verify that their users are at least 16 years of age or older unless they receive approval from an individual's parents to use the service. It also requires websites whose content is comprised of over a third of material that is harmful to minors to verify that their users are age 18 or older.
SB 351 was a priority of Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and also included attached legislation sponsored by Representatives Chris Erwin and Rick Jasperse.
SB 395, sponsored by Senator Clint Dixon, signed by Senators Sam Watson, Larry Walker, Brian Strickland, and Sonya Halpern, carried in the House by Representative Derrick McCollum, and heard in the House Committee on Education by Chairman Chris Erwin and the Senate Committee on Education and Youth by Chairman Clint Dixon, states that no school visitor or personnel can be prohibited from possessing an opioid antagonist such as Narcan and directs schools to maintain a supply. It also allows opioid antagonists to be sold in vending machines and directs certain government buildings to maintain a supply of at least three doses.
A portion of this bill is named Wesley's Law, named after Wesley Gay and was advocated for by Wesley's parents, Laura and Larry Gay.
SB 464, sponsored by Senator Clint Dixon, signed by Senators Chuck Payne, Shawn Still, Shelly Echols, and Jason Anavitarte, amended by Senator Billy Hickman, carried in the House by Representative Bethany Ballard, and heard in the House Committee on Education by Chairman Chris Erwin, creates the School Supplies for Teachers Program to financially and technically support teachers purchasing school supplies online; creates an executive committee of five voting members within the literacy council; and limits the number of approved literacy screeners to five with one being the option available to schools for free.
Governor Kemp extends his appreciation to all of those whose diligent work and efforts led to him being able to sign these bills today.
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Original text here: https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2024-04-23/gov-kemp-signs-legislation-strengthening-education-system-georgia
Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus: Republicans Cut Local Government Red Tape to Speed Up Homebuilding and Lower Prices for Hardworking Arizonans
PHOENIX, Arizona, April 24 -- The Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
Senate Republicans are celebrating today's signing of a bill, sponsored by Senator Janae Shamp, to help mitigate Arizona's housing shortage and the associated skyrocketing prices currently preventing many hardworking Arizonans from affording the American dream of homeownership.
There's a national shortage right now of approximately 7.3 million homes. In Arizona, 270,000 additional homes are needed to meet the demands of our residents. This deficit is directly responsible
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PHOENIX, Arizona, April 24 -- The Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus issued the following news release on April 23, 2024:
Senate Republicans are celebrating today's signing of a bill, sponsored by Senator Janae Shamp, to help mitigate Arizona's housing shortage and the associated skyrocketing prices currently preventing many hardworking Arizonans from affording the American dream of homeownership.
There's a national shortage right now of approximately 7.3 million homes. In Arizona, 270,000 additional homes are needed to meet the demands of our residents. This deficit is directly responsiblefor rising prices. In fact, the average home price in Arizona is $430,000, which is 20% higher than the national average. Homebuilders attempting to increase supply are being met with roadblocks imposed by cities and towns, which are slowing the construction process and contributing to the rising costs homebuyers are encountering.
SB 1162 cuts the unnecessary government red tape, responsible for prolonging approvals on zoning applications needed for home construction to begin, by requiring local governments adhere to reasonable timelines to help expedite the homebuilding process in an effort to increase supply and lower prices. The bill also requires cities and towns to conduct and publish a housing needs study every five years to proactively assess current and anticipated demand for homes in order to swiftly respond to housing shortages.
"Every hardworking citizen within the state of Arizona should be able to afford a home in a safe community. Unfortunately, the American dream of homeownership has become unattainable for many Arizonans over the past five years because of increased demand combined with irresponsible actions from local governments," said Senator Shamp. "Republicans at the Arizona Legislature are committed to solving Arizona's housing shortage crisis, and this is just a small piece of the puzzle. Government helped create this problem, and we will continue to craft policy getting government out of the way so the free market can respond to our citizens' needs. I want to thank Representative Matt Gress for working on this legislation with me, and I look forward to taking additional action with Republican lawmakers to offset the crippling inflation Arizonans are struggling with under the Biden Administration."
SB 1162 takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the legislature.
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Original text here: https://www.azsenaterepublicans.com/post/republicans-cut-local-government-red-tape-to-speed-up-homebuilding-and-lower-prices-for-hardworking
