Gov. Perdue Unveils Economic Stimulus Plan for Georgia at Biennial's Final Day
Day three, the final day of the Biennial Institute for Georgia Legislators, culminated in an address from Gov. Sonny Perdue to the legislators during which he revealed his plans for an economic stimulus plan to uplift Georgia's foundering economy.
In the wake of a national economic crisis, Georgia faces rising unemployment and a potential budget shortfall of $2 billion. Gov. Perdue proposed using the state's AAA bond rating to secure funding for infrastructure projects in hope of generating economic activity and jobs.
President-elect Barack Obama has advanced a similar plan on the national level, and Georgia could be the recipient of billions of dollars in federally funded projects. However, Gov. Perdue remarked Tuesday that the state could not rely on that possibility alone.
The governor's announcement marked the end of the 26th Biennial Institute, one that focused on concerns about the state economy and budget. Despite dire economic conditions, Gov. Perdue expressed his optimism that there will be bipartisanship during the approaching legislative session. "We all get along better when there's not quite enough [money]," he commented. "I'm expecting a very productive session that deals with what we have and the reality of where we are in making those tough decisions that make sense for Georgia."
The Vinson Institute, with co-sponsorship from the offices of the Lieutenant Governor and the Speaker of the House, has organized the Biennial Institute for Georgia Legislators following every general election since 1958. The event provides Georgia's lawmakers with in-depth looks into topical issues before the General Assembly convenes in January.
Prior to Governor Perdue's address Tuesday, legislators had attended sessions on education and transportation. In "Transforming Low-Achieving Schools," speakers discussed ways to promote greater academic success in low-performing schools.
Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Gena Evans spoke at the session entitled "The Future of Georgia Transportation." She and others explained the ways that the state's infrastructure needs to change in order to meet the future demands of freight and commuter transportation.
Rep. Margaret Kaiser from House District 59 appreciated the information she gained at the Biennial Institute. "Legislators can't be experts on everything, and the Biennial broadened the arena for discussion," she said. "The topics were very timely and will help legislators address the immediate needs of the state. There were also some longer-term, preventative issues discussed, such as transportation and childhood obesity. The legislature needs to be proactive in this respect as well."
