DeKalb County, Georgia – Governor Brian Kemp Signs Multiple Bills to Enhance Workforce Development and School Safety

Governor Brian Kemp signed significant legislation on Monday aimed at strengthening Georgia’s workforce and enhancing school safety during an event at the Technical College System of Georgia in DeKalb County. The event witnessed the approval of three major bills designed to connect Georgians with career opportunities and equip learners of all ages with essential skills and knowledge.

Details of the Signed Legislation

The legislation includes various components aimed at workforce development and education reform. One notable bill, SB 1, prohibits students from competing on teams designated for a specific gender, generating debate regarding its implications for transgender student-athletes. In addition, the event saw the signing of several other education-related bills:

• HB 81: Creates an interstate compact for school psychologists to foster collaboration across state lines.
• HB 307: Consolidates requirements for dyslexia screening into the Georgia Early Literacy Act, aimed at improving literacy rates.
• HB 235: Allows educators to be excused from work when donating organs, providing support for those contributing to public health.
• SB 82: Encourages charter school approvals by local boards of education to increase educational options.
• SB 123: Requires attendance review teams for schools with high absentee rates to address issues of student attendance.
• HB 268: Enhances school safety measures, including the implementation of panic button technology in schools.

Particularly noteworthy is the legislation known as “Ricky and Alyssa’s Law”, which incorporates mobile panic buttons in schools and is named in memory of victims of school shootings. This law aims to provide immediate response capabilities in emergency situations.

Governor’s Vision and Priorities

During the signing event, Governor Kemp emphasized Georgia’s position as the No. 1 state for business, highlighting the state’s record-breaking job growth and investments in various sectors. He highlighted the collaborative efforts required for building a skilled workforce and reaffirmed the commitment to improving education and workforce opportunities as vital for sustaining Georgia’s economic success.

Kemp was joined at the event by First Lady Marty Kemp, leadership from the Technical College System of Georgia, and members of the Georgia General Assembly, underscoring a collective commitment to workforce and education reform.

Background and Future Initiatives

The latest legislation builds on previous reforms signed by Governor Kemp, which included tort reforms aimed at making the legal climate more favorable for businesses operating in Georgia. The ongoing focus on educational reform and workforce development aligns with Kemp’s intentions to introduce the Top State for Talent Act, which aims to align educational frameworks with future workforce needs and further enhance Georgia’s economic landscape.

Through these initiatives and legislation, the Governor’s office seeks to ensure that Georgia remains competitive in attracting and retaining businesses while also preparing residents to meet the demands of an evolving job market.