Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Day 3- Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Tonight on Lawmakers, Gov. Sonny Perdue delivers his sixth State of the State address, and the state Democratic leadership responds. Also more action on the statewide Water Plan. That’s coming up on Lawmakers.

Gov. Perdue delivered his annual State of the State address before a packed House chamber of representatives, senators, and other dignitaries. The Governor highlighted business gains in the state, as well as making a point of mentioning that he will be aboard the inaugural Delta Atlanta to Shanghai flight on March 30th to visit Georgia’s new trade office in Beijing. The Governor also spoke about tax cuts for senior citizens, eliminating the state portion of property tax. Other points were transportation, water, and education.

Shortly after the Governor finished his address, the state Democratic leadership held a press conference to respond to the State of the State. Representative Kathy Ashe delivered the address, and focused on reducing school class size to improve education in the state, improving healthcare, addressing the state’s transportation needs, and tax reform. Rep. Ashe called for members of state government to stop bickering and “turn to the future.”

The Water Council has proposed a new statewide Water Plan that divides the state into 11 regions. Water councils in each of these regions will look at water needs for individual regions. Senate Resolution 701, which encompasses the plan, has passed the Senate Natural Resources and Environment Committee and is expected to be taken up by the Senate on Friday.

All that and more, tonight on Lawmakers. Watch Online! Just click here.