Sen. Rick Jeffares (R-Locust Grove) has been named Chairman of the Senate State Institutions and Property Committee for the 2011-2012 Term by the Committee on Assignments. Jeffares replaces Sen. Earl "Buddy" Carter (R-Pooler), who was appointed Chairman of the Senate Higher Education Committee.

"I am honored to serve as Chairman of the State Institutions and Property Committee. It is important that our state continues to make building maintenance, construction and management decisions that fall within budget parameters and at the same time adequately address Georgia's needs," said Jeffares.

"Sen. Jeffares is one of the brightest minds in the State Senate. His first year of service has been outstanding, so much so, that his colleagues have taken the rare step of naming him a Chairman after only one session," said Majority Leader Chip Rogers. "His work leading this important Committee will serve all Georgians well."

"Our state continues to face significant challenges each day, however, with leaders like Sen. Jeffares, I am confident we will find the solutions needed to secure a prosperous future for Georgia," said President Pro Tempore Tommie Williams. "Sen. Jeffares is an individual who will work to ensure our state is making budget conscious decisions while addressing our building infrastructure needs."

The Senate State Institutions and Property Committee reviews all legislation concerning the construction and maintenance of buildings, lands, and other property owned or managed by the State of Georgia.