Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB766

Introduced
3/11/25  
Report Pass
3/25/25  
Engrossed
3/25/25  

Caption

Sumter-Americus Unification Commission Act; enact

Impact

The bill empowers the unification commission to study the operations of current local governments and recommend measures for consolidation. If the commission determines that unification would be beneficial, it will draft a charter outlining the structure, governance, and operational framework of the new government. Successful implementation of this legislation could lead to significant changes in how services such as public safety, infrastructure, and local administration are managed across Sumter County. Moreover, the consolidation may reduce overhead costs and eliminate redundancies in municipal operations, thus offering potential financial benefits.

Summary

House Bill 766, known as the 'Sumter-Americus Unification Commission Act', proposes the establishment of a commission tasked with exploring the feasibility of creating a single county-wide government for Sumter County and the City of Americus, along with the neighboring cities of Andersonville, De Soto, Leslie, and Plains. The commission will be authorized to draft a proposed charter for the new government, which will consolidate existing municipal powers and responsibilities under one governing authority. This initiative is aimed at streamlining government services and enhancing the efficiency of municipal operations within the region.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding HB 766 may arise from community members who value local representation and fear that consolidation could diminish their voices in government. Critics might argue that merging governments could lead to a loss of tailored local services and oversight. Moreover, the bill establishes a referendum process for voters to approve or reject the proposed charter, which could become a contentious point during community discussions as various stakeholders advocate for or against the changes proposed by the commission.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HR1102

Americus-Sumter County; commend

GA HB737

Commission of the Unified Government of Webster County; readopt and revise laws

GA HB597

Andersonville, City of; provide new charter

GA SB579

City of Cordele; transition the office of chairperson to at large commission member; mayor to be selected by and among the commission members; provide

GA HB1316

Cordele, City of; transition office of chairperson to at large commission member; provisions

GA HB1438

Cordele, City of; transition office of chairperson to at large commission member

GA HB741

Rockdale County; Board of Commissioners; increase board to five members

GA HB1267

Georgia Tax Court Act of 2025; enact

GA SB8

'Commission for the Blind and the Visually Impaired Act'; enact; create

GA SR675

Sumter County Chamber of Commerce; congratulate

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