Transportation

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Article 2 of Chapter 14 of Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to speed detection devices, so as to repeal all laws relative to enforcement of speeding violations in school zones through the use of automated traffic enforcement safety devices; to provide for conforming changes; to prohibit a local governing body or law enforcement agency from entering into or renewing a contract that provides for enforcement of laws relative to speeding violations in school zones through the use of automated traffic enforcement safety devices; to provide for related matters; to provide for effective dates; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

This resolution creates a Senate Study Committee focused on improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists in Georgia. It addresses rising pedestrian and cyclist fatalities (with Georgia ranked 6th most dangerous state for pedestrians in 2022), current laws that often treat pedestrian strikes as minor offenses, and gaps in enforcement and reporting. The committee will study these issues and recommend legislative changes to strengthen penalties, improve enforcement, and prioritize safety infrastructure. The committee, composed of five Senate members appointed by the President, must submit findings by December 2025. This is a procedural step to research solutions, not a law that changes policy directly.

SR 283 creates a Joint Study Committee to examine Georgia's lack of height restrictions around airports, which currently poses aviation safety risks and could force costly runway modifications or closures at rural airports. The committee will analyze best practices from other states, assess economic impacts on airports and communities, and engage stakeholders - including airport operators, transportation officials, and local government representatives - to develop balanced recommendations. Composed of four Senate members, the transportation commissioner, and municipal/county association leaders, the committee must submit a final report by December 1, 2025. This resolution does not enact new laws but sets the stage for potential future legislation based on its findings.