Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has taken action to address two important issues by signing new measures into law. The first measure creates a criminal offense specifically for the act of burning police cars, sending a strong message that such actions will not be tolerated. This move helps ensure the safety and security of law enforcement vehicles, which are essential for maintaining public safety.
The second measure focuses on supporting first responders who experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This legislation recognizes the challenges faced by these brave individuals and aims to provide them with the necessary resources and assistance they need to cope with the mental and emotional toll of their work. By prioritizing the well-being of our first responders, Georgia is taking a proactive approach to address the often overlooked issue of PTSD in this profession.
These measures reflect Governor Kemp’s commitment to upholding law and order while also supporting those who put their lives on the line to protect our communities. By signing these laws, Georgia is taking a stand against criminal acts targeting law enforcement and ensuring that our first responders receive the support they deserve.
House Bill 451 aims to provide supplemental insurance coverage to first responders who have been diagnosed with occupational PTSD.
State Representative Devan Seabaugh, from Marietta, expressed his gratitude for the passing of House Bill 451. He emphasized the significance of this legislation in highlighting the importance of the mental health and overall well-being of our first responders. By ensuring that they have access to necessary treatment without facing financial burdens, we can prioritize their ability to serve our communities effectively. Rep. Seabaugh also expressed his hope that this new law will foster a culture where seeking assistance is seen as a sign of strength rather than weakness.
Under House Bill 500, the act of deliberately setting fire to a law enforcement vehicle is now considered a separate offense. This legislation establishes strict penalties for such acts, including a fine of up to $100,000 and a prison sentence ranging from five to 20 years.
According to state Representative Deborah Silcox, a Republican from Sandy Springs, HB 500 serves as an important revision to the law, providing a means to prosecute individuals who intentionally set fire to law enforcement vehicles. The bill also establishes criminal penalties for such actions. Rep. Silcox emphasized the necessity of this update, stating that violent acts of this nature have occurred in the state previously. Moving forward, Georgia will take a firm stance against those who engage in the destruction of state property or mistreatment of law enforcement officials.
Last year, the decision to implement the measure was made in response to an incident where law enforcement motorcycles were set on fire at the Atlanta Police Training Academy and its special operations precinct on Southside Industrial Parkway.
The governor has recently signed HB 409, also known as Addy’s Law. This law requires public school systems to give priority to bus routes that ensure students do not have to cross roads with speed limits exceeding 40 miles per hour.
The measure, which pays tribute to Adalynn Pierce, an eight-year-old girl from Henry County who tragically lost her life while crossing the road to catch her school bus, also toughens the penalties for drivers who pass a stopped school bus. Under this new law, such an act will be considered a “high and aggravated misdemeanor,” punishable by a minimum fine of $1,000 and a potential jail sentence of up to 12 months.
State Representative Lauren Daniel, R-Locust Grove, expressed her gratitude to Governor Kemp and her legislative colleagues for their support in passing Addy’s Law. She emphasized the significance of this law in protecting Georgia’s children and preventing another family from enduring the heartbreaking loss experienced by the Pierce family and their community due to Addy’s tragic and avoidable death.
After committing multiple infractions, officials are required to send license plate details to the insurance companies of the vehicle owners.