Georgia House Bill HB495

Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/25
• Report Pass: 2/19/25
• Report Pass: 2/26/25
• Engrossed: 2/28/25
• Refer: 3/3/25
• Report Pass: 3/13/25
• Enrolled: 4/9/25
• Chaptered: 5/14/25
• Passed: 5/14/25

Caption

Education; Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation; repeal; provide for Georgia Rural Development Council

Impact

The primary impact of HB 495 will be on state laws pertaining to rural development and agricultural support. By transferring the center, the bill aims to provide a central hub for resources, information, and best practices relevant to rural matters. This is expected to streamline efforts towards improving rural economic development and create a more cohesive approach to addressing the unique challenges faced by rural communities, which may include infrastructure, healthcare access, and educational needs.

Summary

House Bill 495 seeks to amend the Official Code of Georgia by transferring the Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation from the University System of Georgia to the Georgia Department of Agriculture. This bill aims to create a more effective structure for addressing rural issues by placing the center under the department, thus aligning agricultural initiatives with rural development strategies. Effective from July 1, 2025, this change is intended to allow for better resource allocation and management focused on enhancing the conditions for rural communities across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 495 appears to be generally supportive among lawmakers focused on rural development and innovation, who view the transfer as a necessary step towards enhancing operational efficiency. However, there could be concerns expressed by those who fear that the change may affect the center's ability to serve its original educational mission or that it might lead to increased bureaucracy under the Department of Agriculture. The public's response will likely vary based on whether community members feel that their needs and concerns will be adequately represented under the new structure.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 495 include discussions around the effectiveness of relocating the center and whether it can continue to fulfill its mission under the Department of Agriculture. Critics may argue that this could dilute the educational focus of the center, while proponents assert that aligning agricultural and rural interests will facilitate better resource management. The future composition of the Georgia Rural Development Council, which will guide the center, is also a point of interest, especially concerning how its membership will reflect the diverse geographic and economic landscape of Georgia's rural areas.