James November-December 2024 web - Flipbook - Page 15
SPEAKER JON BURNS AND MRS. DAYLE BURNS IN THE HOUSE CHAMBER
DURING THE 2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION.
the hands of an individual whose intent was to carry
out a despicable act of evil. When the legislature
reconvenes in January, it will be a top priority in the
House to ensure this never happens in our state again.
We will introduce legislation to increase security in our schools across the state, ensure that our
students have access to mental healthcare, increase
penalties for individuals who make terroristic
threats, incentivize responsible gun ownership practices and require participation in statewide student
mental health and behavior monitoring services that
foster inter-agency communication between school
systems, behavioral health professionals, and law
enforcement. Our students go to school to learn, and
we have no greater responsibility as lawmakers than
to ensure they are able to receive an education in a
safe and secure environment.
Tragedy struck again when Georgians throughout
the Southeast region of the state were devastated by
Hurricane Helene. Thousands of citizens were left
with significant damage to their homes and property,
our state’s agriculture industry experienced historic
losses that will have generational impacts on many
of our family-owned farming operations, and 33
Georgians lost their lives.
Despite the great loss we have experienced over
the last several months, the resilience and resolve of
the people of our great state have been on full display as we have come together to support each other.
The entire House continues to keep those impacted
in our prayers while our state rebuilds, and during
the 2025 Legislative Session we will stand ready to
provide every necessary resource and asset to our
communities until they are whole again.
In Georgia, we know one thing for sure: Our best
days are ahead of us. I, along with each member of the
House, look forward to continue serving the people of
Georgia and advancing an agenda that makes our state
a better place for every family and business.
The Hon. John G. Burns is Georgia’s 75th Speaker of the House
of Representatives
