GA News Podcast – East Metro for Sunday, 4/28 – Published Friday 4/26
From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to your Georgia News Podcast. This podcast features stories compiled from the publications of Times Journal Inc.
Today is Sunday, April 28th and Happy 73rd Birthday to comedian Jay Leno.
***04.28.24 – BIRTHDAY – JAY LENO***
I’m Keith Ippolito and here is your top stories Georgia is talking about, presented by Drake Realty
We’ll have these stories and more, coming up on your Georgia News Podcast and If you want community, local, and statewide news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!
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Story 1: Georgia political campaigns start to deploy AI but humans still needed to press the flesh
Glenn Cook, a Republican candidate for Georgia House District 180, employs an AI-powered approach in his campaign, utilizing blog posts and podcasts generated with AI assistance. While some express concerns about the impersonal nature of AI-generated content, proponents argue that it can free up time for more direct voter engagement. Despite the potential benefits, challenges such as the risk of misinformation and data privacy concerns persist. The use of AI in political campaigns is still in its early stages but is expected to become increasingly prevalent in the future, particularly in local races with limited resources for staffing.
Story 2: State, JDA Continue Oversight of Rivian Development; Rivian Pledges Compliance
The state of Georgia and the Joint Development Authority of Jasper, Newton, Morgan, and Walton Counties are overseeing the Rivian project site in Morgan and Walton counties during a pause in development. Rivian received a letter from the state and JDA outlining concerns about site conditions and safety. Rivian assured continued commitment to the project and addressed the issues raised. The state and JDA emphasized the importance of site stabilization, environmental compliance, and security measures. Rivian received incentives for the project but must meet investment and employment commitments. They also agreed to payments in lieu of taxes outlined in the economic development agreement.
Story 3: Bill To Regulate Hemp Products In Georgia Awaits Governor’s Signature
The Georgia Hemp Farming Act, awaiting Governor Kemp's decision, regulates hemp products, including CBD and Delta-8, and restricts sales to those 21 and older. Sponsored by Sen. Sam Watson, the bill mandates testing, prohibits sales to minors, and treats hemp products like food items. Supporters emphasize consumer protection, especially for children. However, opponents, like Dr. Gaylord Lopez and the Georgia Medical Cannabis Society, urge a veto, citing concerns about increased regulation impacting small businesses and potential legal repercussions for CBD sellers. They argue that the bill fails to address synthetic derivatives and could inadvertently target legal vendors. Lopez calls for closing loopholes to prevent harm from hemp derivatives.
We’ll be right back
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Story 4: Kemp Inks Expanded Paid Parental Leave for State Workers
Governor Kemp signed House Bill 1010 into law, granting state employees up to six weeks of paid parental leave, doubling the previous allowance. The bill, passed by the General Assembly in March, extends the leave to 240 hours following the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. Advocates for paid parental leave, while applauding the move, stress the need for broader access to such benefits beyond state workers. Currently, about 78% of Georgia's workforce lacks access to paid family leave, highlighting the ongoing advocacy efforts for comprehensive paid leave policies.
Story 5: Kemp Signs Private School Vouchers Bill Along With Anavitarte's Social Media Restrictions
Governor Kemp signed Senate Bill 233 into law, establishing private-school vouchers worth up to $6,500 for students in the lowest-performing public schools. Despite Republican support, critics argue the vouchers won't cover the full cost of private schooling and may divert funds from public education. Kemp defended the bill, highlighting record K-12 spending and additional education-related bills signed, including measures addressing cyberbullying and social media safety for teenagers. Senate Bill 351, sponsored by Sen. Jason Anavitarte, mandates social media companies to verify users' age and requires education programs on social media safety. Districts failing to comply risk losing state funds.
We’ll right back.
Break: CURIOSITY LAB
Story 6: Jordan Ridley Urges Mayorkas to Improve Transparency on Immigration in Georgia
State Rep. Jordan Ridley, along with Rep. Jason Ridley, penned a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, demanding more transparency regarding noncitizen screening, vetting, and resettlement in Georgia. They stress constituents' concerns about national security and immigration integrity, calling for detailed information on the department's processes and methodologies. Specifically, they request disclosure of age, gender, and country of origin breakdowns for individuals involved in the resettlement initiative. Ridley emphasizes the need for citizens to have confidence in the systems safeguarding the state and nation.
Story 7: Kemp signs anti-squatting bill
Governor Kemp signed House Bill 1017 into law, targeting illegal squatting by creating the offense of unlawful squatting. The bill unanimously passed both chambers of the Georgia legislature. Aimed at addressing nationwide incidents of trespassing-related violence and property damage, it allows property owners to cite violators, who must then provide documentation within three days. Failure to do so could lead to misdemeanor charges. If documentation is deemed invalid, the violator faces arrest and fines based on the property's rental value. The bill aims to expedite the removal of squatters and sends a message that squatting is a criminal offense.
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