As Promised: Officially Introduced Pre-filed Bills

The prefiling of a measure shall not constitute the official introduction of a bill or resolution, and a bill or resolution may be officially introduced only during a legislative session. O.C.G.A. § 28-1-17(b)

The January edition of Georgia Insight covered select pre-filed bills that would need attention if they were introduced, officially. Each bill in that issue ended with a promise that contact numbers for committee members would be provided for bills that were introduced and assigned to committee. Although committee chairmen may allow discussions or public hearings for bills, they also may, arbitrarily, “sit on” (pocket veto) bills or resolutions to prevent passage. The following bills, reported in the January issue, were introduced and are in committees.

S.B. 281 Georgia Firearms and Weapons Act introduced January 15th by Senator James puts automatic or semi-automatic weapons and large capacity magazines on Georgia’s list of illegal dangerous weapons. Gun show vendors would have to comply with National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NCIS) conditions, but could contract with a licensed dealer to do so. It, also, amends the Juvenile Code and the reporting of students by adding automatic or semi-automatic guns to current weapons laws affecting minors and students.

ACTION – Oppose. Contact Judiciary Committee members to vote NO on S.B. 281. Call Senators Stone Ch., 404 4631314; Cowsert, V-Ch., 463-1366; Tillery, Sec., 656-0089; Heath, 656-3943; Jones II, 463-3942; Kennedy, 656-0045; Ligon, Jr., 463-1383; Parent, 656-5109; Rhett, 656-0054; Strickland 656-7454.

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