Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia Senate Bill SB248

Introduced
2/23/23  
Refer
2/27/23  
Introduced
2/23/23  

Caption

Counties; provisions relating to ordinances for governing and policing unincorporated areas of counties; revise

Impact

The bill's implications for state law are significant, particularly in how local governments operate in unincorporated regions. With the revised provisions, counties may gain more autonomy to enact laws that meet the needs of their specific constituencies. This could enhance local governance, allowing counties to tackle issues such as public safety, land use, and community services in a tailored manner. However, this move may also raise questions about the balance of power between state authorities and local governance, given the delicate dynamics involved in policing and local ordinance creation.

Summary

SB248 is a legislative bill aimed at revising provisions related to the governance and policing of unincorporated areas within counties. The bill seeks to clarify the authority of counties regarding the adoption of ordinances that govern various activities in these regions, which are not incorporated into any city or municipality. By doing so, it intends to strengthen the regulatory capabilities of counties, allowing them to address local issues effectively without needing to rely on state-level interventions.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SB248. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for empowering counties to act on their own terms, thus filling governance gaps that state laws may overlook. On the other hand, critics may express concerns that expanding county authority could lead to inconsistencies in law enforcement and regulatory practices across different areas. This disparity could result in confusion or inequity in the application of laws for the residents living in both incorporated and unincorporated areas, potentially undermining the overall coherence of state legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA SB166

Counties; ordinances for governing and policing unincorporated areas of counties; revise provisions

GA SB62

Counties and Municipal Corporations; certain local ordinances or policies relating to public camping or sleeping; prohibit

GA HB551

Crimes and offenses; counties and municipalities to adopt ordinances governing the possession of one ounce or less of marijuana; authorize

GA AB143

Revises provisions governing counties. (BDR 20-460)

GA SB499

Coordinated and Comprehensive Planning and Service Delivery by Counties and Municipalities; revise provisions

GA AB314

Revises provisions governing the regulation of home-based businesses by counties, cities and towns. (BDR 20-772)

GA AB478

Revises provisions governing construction times in counties and cities. (BDR 20-1091)

GA HB4262

Relating to authorizing municipalities and counties to regulate land development in certain unincorporated areas; providing a penalty.

GA SB2202

Relating to authorizing municipalities and counties to regulate land development in certain unincorporated areas; providing a penalty.

GA HB2833

Relating to certain building code standards applicable to the unincorporated areas of certain counties; providing a penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.