Oconee County Senator Told Small Gathering Of Republicans Why He Voted For A Tax Increase

Sen. Bill Cowsert told a small group of Oconee County Republicans in late May that he voted in favor of the tax increases for transportation in March because the bill gave legislators more control over the Georgia Department of Transportation and “capped” the fuel tax–something the tax bill does only in part.

Cowsert also defended the $5 per night fee added to hotel and other lodging bills as part of the transportation act on the grounds that most of those paying the fee will be from out of state.

Cowsert was joined by Rep. Chuck Williams, both of whom represent Oconee County in the General Assembly, in a legislative wrap-up session hosted on May 21 by the Oconee County Republican Party at the Watkinsville Community Center. About 15 people attended.

Williams listed a number of bills that had taken his time during the session, including one that eliminates penalties for nonpayment of taxes if someone voluntarily deregisters a motor vehicle.

At the end of the session, Williams announced that he plans to run for re-election to the General Assembly in next year’s elections.

For more on this story, with a full video of the session, go to Oconee County Observations.

Pictured: Sen. Bill Cowsert