ATLANTA – Thursday will be a big day for Georgia as hundreds of new laws come into effect.
From a revision of the electoral law to arresting citizens to driving teenagers, here’s a look at some of the new laws in Georgia:
The new electoral law in Georgia has attracted national attention. SB 202 went through the party lines in the state senate and shortly afterwards went to the governor’s desk. After he signed it, most of the law went into effect.
There are six sections effective July 1st that relate to postal ballot papers such as: B. the design of a new form and envelope etc.
Republican supporters say the law is necessary to restore confidence in the Georgia elections. Democrats say access to voting will be restricted, especially for voters of color.
READ MORE HERE.
Governor Brian Kemp signed House Bill 479, which repealed the Arrest of Georgia Citizens Act.
Kemp and state lawmakers have been pushing for repeal for almost a year after the death of Ahmaud Arbery and the shocking video that circulated months later.
Kemp said during the signing ceremony that he took pride in signing the law while protecting “the sacred right of every Georgian to defend himself and his property.”
READ MORE HERE.
From July 1st, 16- and 17-year-olds must complete a “Joshua’s Law” safety course before they can get their driver’s license.
Joshua’s Law, also known as House Bill 466, was passed during this year’s legislature. 17-year-olds are currently exempt from 30 hours of program tuition and six hours of street training.
The Georgia Department of Driver Services says anyone under the age of 18 will not be issued their original Class D license without completing the required training.
READ MORE HERE.
Restaurants may, under certain conditions, sell take-away cocktails for the “off-premises” approved container.
Alcohol industry officials said it was vital to the survival of the hospitality industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated the Georgia hospitality industry and will take years to fully recover,” said Jay Hibbard, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States senior vice president of state government relations. “Hospitality companies are desperately looking for a sustainable source of income, and take-away cocktails are a vital lifeline.”
READ MORE HERE.
Stealing a package from someone’s garden could result in a thief charge and jail term.
The so-called “Porch Pirate” bill is defined as the acceptance of three or more packets from three or more different addresses.
Those found guilty of the crime can be sentenced to up to five years in prison.
READ MORE HERE.
Governor Kemp signed a bill that would prevent local governments from cutting back on law enforcement resources.
When Parliament passed in February, the bill was passionately discussed.
Republicans say it prevents counties or cities from compensating the police, while Democrats say it really takes control of law enforcement out of the hands of local authorities.
READ MORE HERE.
Here is a list of all signed laws that will take effect on July 1st.
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