Issue Position: Rural Development

Issue Position

During my time as Speaker of the House, unemployment in our state has been cut in half. The General Assembly has made strategic investments in roads and infrastructure. Through conservative budgeting, we've grown Georgia's "Rainy Day Fund" while maintaining our AAA Bond Rating.

While Georgia -- as a whole -- is growing, our rural communities are still trying to recover from the Great Recession. Jobs are scarce and resources are limited. Rural Georgia needs a "hand up." The General Assembly is ready to act.

During the 2017 Legislative Session, I stood before the House Economic Development and Tourism Committee in support of HR389, which will create the House Rural Development Council. Under the leadership of State Rep Jay Powell, State Rep. Terry England, and State Rep. Sam Watson, this council will look at the big picture and recommend legislative actions can that can empower rural areas throughout our state.

From education to healthcare, infrastructure and tax policy, this group of lawmakers will find creative solutions to bolster our rural communities. By working together, we will keep all of Georgia -- urban, suburban, and rural -- a great place to live, work and to raise a family!

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