Childhood Lead Exposure Control Act (HB 1355) Rep. Katie Dempsey, R-Rome Scheduled for Debate in the Senate on Apr-1 or Apr-4 Based on recommendations made by a 2021 House Study Committee, HB 1355 addresses lead exposure and remediation, particularly in children. It updates the state’s definition of “confirmed lead poisoning” to comport with nationally recognized guidelines; this lower threshold is likely to result in more properties requiring lead hazard abatement. The legislature is providing additional funding to the Department of Public Health in anticipation of increased utilization as a result of the legislation. The Senate amended the bill to retain current law on the definition of “lead abatement,” which provides parameters on the Department’s regulatory authority. 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. Secondary Metals Recyclers (SB 591) Sen. Bo Hatchett, R-Cornelia Scheduled for Debate in the House on Apr-1 A decade ago, Georgia passed legislation that significantly curtailed metal theft by prohibiting cash payouts. This year’s effort makes it illegal to purchase, possess, obtain, or sell a used detached catalytic converter. While the bill allows for small cash payouts for other recyclable materials, detached catalytic converters remain on the no-cash list. Unsheltered Homelessness (HR 1042) Rep. Katie Dempsey, R-Rome Pending in the House Rules Cmte After legislation (SB 535) related to encampment areas for homeless persons drew fierce criticism, proponents have pivoted and are now promoting study committees. HR 1042 creates a House study committee; SR 659 creates a Senate study committee. Assuming both are authorized, they will likely function as a joint study committee. The resolutions are exempt from Crossover Day restrictions. Regulation, Affordability, and Access to Housing (HR 1149) Rep. Dale Washburn, R-Macon Favorably reported from the House Small Business Development Cmte on Mar-30 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). DeKalb County Eviction Fees (HB 1577) Rep. Viola Davis, D-Stone Mountain Tabled in the Senate on Mar-29 A majority of members of the DeKalb County delegation have signed onto legislation that allows the State Court clerk to collect a fee of up to $150 for the removal of personal property and other unremunerated costs incurred by DeKalb County after an eviction. The bill passed the House on Mar-23 and was scheduled for a vote in the Senate on Mar-29. Senator Emanuel Jones (D-Decatur) removed the bill from the local consent calendar before a vote was taken. It remains eligible; however, no additional action is expected this year. |
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