Sen. Chuck Payne

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 200) is a ceremonial Senate recognition of HOPE AACR, an animal-assisted crisis response organization. It honors HOPE AACR's work providing emotional support through trained handlers and dogs during disasters, including responses to hurricanes and community crises in Georgia. The resolution has no policy or funding impact - it simply commends the organization's volunteer service and extends best wishes. It was adopted by the Senate on February 19, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates February 20, 2025, as "Alpha Day at the Capitol" to honor Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity for African American men. It recognizes the fraternity's 118-year history, its mission of leadership development and community service, and its contributions including over $2.3 million in scholarships. The resolution is ceremonial, urging all citizens to acknowledge the fraternity's work and specifically marks the date for the Georgia District's annual "Alpha Day at the Capitol" event.

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Title 17 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to criminal procedure, so as to establish the "Victims of Wrongful Incarceration Compensation Act"; to provide for a short title; to provide for eligibility; to provide for definitions; to provide for the compensation of wrongfully incarcerated persons; to provide for requisition procedures and for certification of eligibility for compensation; to provide for criminal records checks; to provide for the calculation, payment, and limit of such compensation; to provide for waivers and release; to provide for related matters; to provide an effective date; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 189) formally recognizes Mercer University and designates February 20, 2025, as "Mercer University Day" at the Georgia state capitol. It commends the university for its 192 years of educational service in Georgia, including its campus in Macon, its 12 schools enrolling over 9,200 students, and its community impact. The resolution has no policy or funding changes - it is purely ceremonial, honoring the university's contributions to Georgia.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 95) names Georgia's new legislative office complex the "Sonny Perdue Legislative Building" to honor former Governor Sonny Perdue's lifetime of public service. It does not create new laws or affect any policies; it is a ceremonial designation for a physical building. The resolution cites Perdue's service as Georgia's first Republican governor since Reconstruction, his role as U.S. Agriculture Secretary, and his current position as Chancellor of the University System of Georgia. The building will serve as the new home for Georgia's state legislators.

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Code Section 48-8-3 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to exemptions from sales and use taxes, so as to exempt sales of firearms, ammunition, gun safes, and related accessories during an 11 day period each year; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 170) designates February 18, 2025, as "Clark Atlanta University Day" at the Georgia state capitol. It formally recognizes the university's historical significance as the nation's first four-year liberal arts college serving a primarily African American student population, its current contributions to Georgia's economy ($541 million annual impact), and its academic programs and community engagement. The resolution does not create new laws or policies; it is a commemorative gesture honoring the institution's role in education, research, and community service. The Senate directs the Secretary to provide copies to Clark Atlanta University and its president.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 152) is a symbolic gesture recognizing the Georgia Academy of Audiology (GAA), a nonprofit organization representing licensed audiologists in Georgia. It commends the GAA for its work in advocating for hearing healthcare policies, providing continuing education, and raising public awareness about hearing loss prevention and treatment. The resolution does not create new laws or funding; it simply honors the organization’s service to Georgians affected by hearing and balance disorders. The GAA supports audiologists who diagnose and treat hearing issues in settings like hospitals, schools, and clinics across Georgia. The Senate passed this resolution on February 11, 2025, as a formal expression of appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 151) formally recognizes February 26, 2025, as "Self-Direction Day" in Georgia. It highlights self-direction - a service model allowing individuals with disabilities to control their home and community-based care, including decisions about who provides services and when. The resolution notes Georgia has used this approach since 2005 across five waiver programs, emphasizing benefits like greater independence, improved satisfaction, and reduced costs compared to traditional systems. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or alter existing programs.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes Minister Berry Vernon Wren's retirement after 43 years of service as pastor at Fairmont Baptist Church in Sparta, Georgia. It commends his community leadership, spiritual guidance, and dedication to addressing physical and spiritual needs through his ministry. The resolution, adopted by the Senate in February 2025, directs the Senate secretary to provide Minister Wren with a copy of the resolution. It is a symbolic gesture of appreciation with no policy changes or direct effects on legislation or constituents.