• HB 115 allows the Governor more discretion in removing school board members who jeopardize a school system’s accreditation.
• HB 116 authorizes the transfer of gifts to the Georgia Foundation for Public Education
• HB 283, commonly referred to the Title 20 Cleanup Bill, has become this session’s “Christmas Tree” legislation upon which unsuccessful bills are hung as the underlying legislation moves through the committee process. Under the Gold Dome, rumor has it that legislators may attempt to increase the cap on Georgia’s tuition tax credit program, using HB 283 as a vehicle. It’s also possible that language from this session’s stalled Parent Trigger Bill could be added. The House must agree or disagree to the Senate’s version of HB 283. If the House disagrees, a conference committee will be appointed, providing the opportunity for more amendments.  

Payroll Deduction Bill Passes with PAGE Out

The Senate passed HB 361 today. The legislation limits the ability of labor organizations to collect dues via payroll deduction. Fortunately, PAGE and several other groups were carved out of the bill and excluded from the deduction limitations earlier in the committee process. However, the legislation also impacts the ability of seasonal school workers like lunchroom workers and school bus drivers to collect unemployment over the summer break.   

So What Else is Left?

Legislation mandating a comprehensive educator evaluation overhaul hasn’t yet passed both chambers. It’s expected to be considered by the Senate late Tuesday or sometime on the final day of the legislative session. Other issues yet to be resolved include the FY 2014 Budget, gun rights, and ethics.     

WATCH “Legislative Week in Review” for more on education-related issues at the Capitol

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