'Lawmakers': Gun violence, home values and parental leave top the agenda on Day 21

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Gun violence, home values and parental leave topped the agenda on Day 21 of the legislative session.

The Asian American and Pacific Islander Caucus celebrated the Lunar New Year and presented resolutions honoring community members. The celebration included traditional dress and food and a friendly red lion, which is said to bring good luck for the coming year.

Before discussing the bills of the day in the Senate, the rise in gun violence and the shooting in Kansas City were noted on the floor.

The rapid increase in home valuations across the state was addressed in Senate Bill 349. The bill will cap the yearly rate that home values can be taxed at 3% percent, regardless of the estimated value that a county assesses. But there was some concern over taking away control from local government over the millage rates. Despite the concerns, the bill passed 42 to 7.

SB 443 would allow city authorities to hold unsanctioned event organizers liable for any costs and liabilities that a municipality would have to incur. While the bill was written specifically to address the Tybee Island “Orange Crush” event, it would apply to all of Georgia’s cities and towns. That bill passed 47 to 1.

The House approved a bill that would double paid parental leave for state employees. Full-time state employees are currently eligible for three weeks of paid parental leave. House Bill 1010 would extend that period to six weeks. Supporters of HB 1010 say it gives new parents time to recover and bond with their child. The bill passed one 53 to 11.

Also in the House, members honored the Nigerian Consul General.

Tomorrow, on Day 21, lawmakers will return to the Capitol. They are expected to discuss environmental policy and sexual assault crisis center funding in two press conferences.

Join host Donna Lowry and capitol reporter Sarah Kallis at 7 p.m. on GPB-TV for the 54th season of GPB's Lawmakers.