Childhood Lead Exposure Control Act (HB 1355) Rep. Katie Dempsey, R-Rome Eligible for Enactment by the Governor Based on recommendations made by a 2021 House Study Committee, HB 1355 addresses lead exposure and remediation, particularly in children. It lowers the threshold needed to meet the state’s definition of “confirmed lead poisoning.” This lower threshold will result in more properties requiring lead hazard abatement. The General Assembly approved an additional $1.8 million in the Department of Public Health’s budget for additional lead inspectors and testing machines. Specific to property owners, it extends responsibility to outdoor areas. It increases, from 14 to 30 days, the time an owner or managing agent must submit an abatement plan. In lieu of abatement, it allows the owner to attest that the property will be not used as a dwelling in the future. The National Apartment Association has reviewed the bill for concerns, indicating that this version is largely consistent with federal law. Criminal Gang Activity (HB 1134) Rep. Chuck Efstration, R-Dacula Eligible for Enactment by the Governor HB 1134 provides the attorney general with concurrent jurisdiction with prosecutors for certain criminal gang-related crimes across the state. It also allows the attorney general to employ peace officers for investigative purposes. The FY23 budget contains $1.3 million to establish a gang prosecution unit within the Department of Law. Criminal Case Data Exchange Board (SB 441) Sen. Bo Hatchett, R-Clarkesville Eligible for Enactment by the Governor SB 441 reestablishes the Criminal Case Data Exchange Board, acknowledging that the state’s current system for sharing criminal case data is inadequate in providing interested parties – including housing providers – with criminal case data. It has been co-signed by all 56 members of the Senate. Regulation, Affordability, and Access to Housing (HR 1149) Rep. Dale Washburn, R-Macon Authorized by the House HR 1149 creates the House Study Committee on Regulation, Affordability, and Access to Housing. According to the resolution, there is “an alarming and increasing shortage in both owner-occupied and rental housing” causing “an unprecedented rise in the cost of purchasing or renting a home.” Rep Washburn championed unsuccessful legislation on behalf of build-to-rent developers (HB 1093). Unsheltered Homelessness (SR 659) Sen. Carden Summers, R-Cordele Authorized by the Senate This resolution authorizes the creation of the Senate Study Committee on Unsheltered Homelessness. The group will look specifically at street homelessness and homeless encampments, mental illness, substance use disorders, and public safety. The author originally introduced SB 535, which would have allowed the Attorney General to take action against municipalities that do not address unauthorized homeless encampments.
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