Mon., January 10, 2011 5:03pm (EST)

Deal Lays Out Priorities At Inauguration

By Susanna Capelouto

Updated: 2 years ago

ATLANTA  —   Nathan Deal became Georgia's 82nd Governor today. In his inaugural speech he vowed to save the HOPE Scholarship for future generations. He also condemned the federal health care law and said Georgians need to be more responsible for their own health. He said government needs to be frugal and wise.

"I call on all Georgians to assume responsibility for themselves and their family. State government cannot and should not provide what we can provide for ourselves."

Deal needs to balance a state budget that is expected to be one billion dollars short. He said he wants to improve education and transportation in the state. Two major elements, he says, crucial in attracting businesses to the state.