2018 Capitol Update Week 9 - House passes FY 19 Budget

House passes FY 19 Budget at $26 billion

The House passed its' version of the Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19) Budget this past week. HB 684, the FY19 Budget, is $50.85 billion in combined Federal and State funds. The FY19 budget includes the Governor's revenue estimate of $26 billion in state dollars, an increase of 4.1 percent or $1.03 billion over prior year.

FY19 Budget Highlights:

• Education investments total 55.9% of the entire budget
• The Teacher's Retirement System received a $361.7 million infusion
• School security grants of $8 million with $8 million more anticipated from the Senate
• Health and Human Services receive 33.8% of the total budget
• Georgia Retired State Employees will receive a 13th check up to $900
• Record lottery proceeds of $1.2 billion to HOPE educational programs
• Transportation motor fuel revenues of $1.83 billion for roads and bridges

Governor signs HB 159 Adoption Bill

I was proud to stand with Governor Deal, Speaker Ralston, Rep. Bert Reeves, and my House colleagues at the signing for HB 159. The last time the adoption statutes were updated in Georgia, Governor Deal was the sponsor as a member of the state Senate.

HB 159 removes unnecessary burdens, delays, and costs making adoption in Georgia easier. HB 159 will reduce the time Georgia's children spend in foster care and place them with loving, permanent families sooner.

Pleased to be your Representative

With qualifying ending at noon this past Friday, I am unopposed as your Representative for House District 106. It has been my great pleasure to serve as your Representative over the past eight years. I do not take this responsibility lightly. All day, every day, I advocate for you at your state Capitol. Please continue to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns. Your input informs my decisions and improves the outcome of legislation. Thank you again.

Let me hear from you

Should you find yourself in Atlanta during the Session, please stop by and visit me at my Capitol office, and please call or email if you have any question or concerns regarding any state issue. My capitol office, phone, and email are listed below.

613-D Coverdell Legislative Office Building
Atlanta, GA 30334
404-463-3793
Brett.Harrell@house.ga.gov

Thanks again for allowing me to serve,

Brett