Fresh Loaf

"This is a perfect metaphor for what we do to the state every year!"

Walter Jones of the Augusta Chronicle today takes a look at what’s sure to be one of the most laid-back and relaxing legislative sessions our Gold Dome overlords have ever enjoyed.

While the rest of the country is suffering, Georgia remains a beacon of wealth and opportunity. Just look at what state lawmakers will have at their disposal come Jan. 11!

Consider the factors: budget deficits demanding either historic cuts or gigantic tax increases, a lame-duck governor, a lieutenant governor who bowed out of the governor’s race, a speaker who is clinically depressed and fielding calls for his resignation, multiple legislators out of work and more facing personal financial crisis, and unemployment topping 10 percent when the trust fund that pays benefits is broke.

If that isn’t enough, remember the massive issues that remain unsolved from past sessions. There has been no solution to pay for transportation or a statewide trauma-care network, and a federal judge has imposed a nearly impossible deadline for finding alternative water supplies for about a fourth of the state population.

Add to that mix the fact that it’s an election year with seemingly half the state’s officials running for higher office and the other half determined to foil any legislative successes they might otherwise campaign on.

Man, this is gonna be awesome! We’ve got all these things going for us!

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In January, state lawmakers will convene in Atlanta to shake hands, eat at fancy restaurants, and maybe pass a law or two. Because it’s an election year, these men and women will introduce a bunch of ridiculous proposals and resolutions to earn some brownie points with voters. But they’ll also have to tackle such serious issues as water, transportation and tax reform.

On Nov. 11 and 12, state lawmakers who represent Fulton County under the Gold Dome will hold three public meetings at the Coverdell Legislative Office Building to discuss local issues. Among them: Grady Health Systems, MARTA and education.

At the annual citizens’ public hearing on Nov. 11 at 6 p.m., you’ll have a chance to tell lawmakers what you’d like to see them focus on during the session.

The meetings are free and open to the public. Meeting dates and details are after the jump.

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With roughly four months until Georgia lawmakers return to the Gold Dome to wreak havoc upon our pristine and precious state, thirsty residents and fans of freedom are moving forward with a petition to convince Gov. Sonny Perdue to finally do away with its ridiculous laws prohibiting the purchase of alcohol in stores on Sundays.

The petition, which was started by Twitter user AtlantaBeer, very plainly states:

Georgia law prevents retail sales of beer on Sundays despite the will of the people. Why does Gov Perdue block every attempt to change this law?

Good question. We’ve always heard state lawmakers are hesitant to push for an end to Sunday Sales because Perdue’s made clear he’d veto the bill. Also, next legislative session is during an election year. Lawmakers are big on red-meat issues when they’re up for re-election — think “guns, gays, and God” — and tend to shy away from measures that could change the status quo.

That doesn’t mean you can’t join in the fun. Here’s the petition website.

After the jump, the map of people ACROSS THE COUNTRY who think Georgians deserve the right to booze on the Sabbath. It’s the dawn of a new day, suckas!

(H/T to everyone in Georgia who uses Twitter)

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