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The Georgia House of Representatives returned to the Gold Dome for the third week of the 2023 legislative session on Monday, January 23. We voted on our first set of local bills of the session, and several House committees held their first meetings. Members of the House and Senate also came together for a joint session to hear Governor Brian Kemp deliver his fifth annual State of the State address.
On Wednesday, the House Chamber was packed as the legislature convened for Governor Kemp’s State of the State address. This annual gathering provides a unique opportunity for the governor to present his assessment on the current condition of our state government, as well as present his legislative priorities for the year ahead.
As we move through the budget process, the House Appropriations Committee will weigh the governor’s proposals and thoughtfully craft the House version.
In addition to hearing the State of the State address this week, my colleagues and I welcomed two very special groups in the House Chamber. On Monday, the Consul General of the Republic of Korea Yoonjoo Park joined us to honor of Korean American Day at the State Capitol. The consul general provided special remarks to highlight the strong bond of friendship between his nation and the state of Georgia, and we will continue to foster this relationship as we invest in future-oriented industries. According to Consul General Park, more than 100 Korean companies, including Kia, SK Battery America and now Hyundai, are operating in our great state. These companies have produced more than 15,000 jobs in the last five years and have spurred a cumulative investment of approximately $21 billion in Georgia. I am proud to live in a state that promotes mutually beneficial relationships with other nations, like the Republic of Korea, and it was an honor to celebrate the economic advancements made in our state because of this strong alliance.
The House recognized Georgia National Guard Day at the Capitol on Thursday. Several Georgia National Guard leaders joined us in the House Chamber during their visit to the Gold Dome, and Brigadier General John Gentry commended the House for its continued support over the years. The guard’s motto is “always ready, always there,” and Georgia’s 15,000 guardsmen continually fulfill their mission to always be ready to serve our citizens, especially over these last several years. From serving at our local food banks to protecting our cities during civil unrest, our state defense force steps in when our communities need it the most, and I commend the guard for their service to our state.
As we continue through the session, I hope that you will reach out with your questions or concerns about legislation that may come before the House, including bills that are in the committee process.
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