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Monday, January 29, brought about the fourth week of the 2024 legislative session, which means we have completed the first quarter of our legislative work. Last week began on a somber note as we grieved the unexpected loss of our House Rules Chairman, Richard Smith (R-Columbus), as well as our brave servicemen and women who lost their lives in a recent airstrike overseas. The last few days, we took time to mourn the loss of one who worked tirelessly on behalf of our constitutional republic, while paying tribute to the loss of many, who gave their lives to preserve our right to do so. Through our grief, we honored the memory of Chairman Smith and our lost service members by continuing our work on behalf of our great state and her citizens. This Update: House Action |
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Transportation House Bill 804 requires the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue two distinct license plates to ambulance and hearse owners, moving us away from the current plates which read, “Hearse/Ambulance.” This bill simply clarifies the separate purposes for which these vehicles are used. If passed and signed into law, this bill would become effective on January 1, 2025.
Healthcare We continue to tackle healthcare and began this session by expanding access and licenses through HB 502 and HB 434. House Bill 502, or the “Georgia Cosmetic Laser Services Act saw passage last week in a near unanimous vote. This bill would update the definition of “cosmetic laser services” in state law as a result of the development of new dermatological procedures that were not encompassed in the previous definition, including energy-based medical procedures using an ultrasound, cryolipolysis, microwave or radio frequency devices. Under House Bill 434, radiologist assistants will now be issued licenses in our state. If passed, the Georgia Composite Medical Board would establish criteria for licensure and licensure renewal for radiologist assistants, as well as establishing rules and regulations related to the qualifications, scope of practice and supervision of these healthcare workers. We are hopeful that this legislation will help to recruit and retain healthcare workers while shortening patient wait times. We Stand with Israel House Bill 30, introduced in 2023, further recognizes that Georgia stands with Israel and our Jewish brothers and sisters. This bill addresses antisemitism as it adds the defined act to our hate crimes law. Further, this bill would require all state agencies that prohibit discrimination to consider the definition of antisemitism during that enforcement. As antisemitic rhetoric has seen an uptick in recent months, I was proud to vote in support of this legislation. HB 30 now heads to Governor Kemp’s desk to be signed into law. If you have questions or concerns please feel free to reach out to us directly. As always, thank you for allowing me the honor of serving as your voice under the Gold Dome. May God bless you and keep you, may He continue to bless the great state of Georgia. Respectfully, Stan Gunter Representative of Georgia’s 8th District
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