This week, the Georgia General Assembly reconvened after a week-long recess to analyze the Governor’s budget recommendations. Having only completed eight days of the 2015 session, business is quickly starting to pick-up as lawmakers continue to file legislation and begin the committee process.

This week we welcomed a very special guest, Ava Bullard, to the Capitol in honor of Autism Awareness Day. Ava, the face behind Ava’s Law, stood in front of members of the Senate to encourage legislators to pass Senate Bill 1, a bill designed to provide up to $35,000 in insurance coverage for treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) for children six years old and younger. Ava is a beautiful example of how children with ASD can benefit when they receive the proper medical care. I was inspired by her courage and determination to spread awareness of this issue that affects 1 in 64 children in Georgia.

I am proud to say that SB 1 passed through the Senate with unanimous, bipartisan consent.
I am looking forward to seeing how my fellow legislators and I can work together to pass future legislation that will better the lives of Georgia’s children.

This week we had a lot of special guests come and visit the Senate Chamber. Monday we celebrated Georgia National Guard Day at the Capitol and were joined by several members of the National Guard. I am thankful to all the service men and women who faithfully serve to protect our state and country. It was an honor to be in the presence of such strong individuals.

The Senate welcomed Atlanta Hawks players and fans Tuesday for Atlanta Hawks Day, congratulating them on their record-breaking 16 game winning streak. Dominique Wilkins, the all-time leading scorer in Hawks history, addressed the Senators and presented them with a basketball signed by all 15 players on the team. Hawks CEO Steve Koonin also delivered remarks about the team’s winning streak. On Wednesday, the team exceeded the record again and won their 17th game of the season. Go Hawks!

I am honored that you have put your trust in me to represent District 17. Please feel free to contact my office at any time to talk about pending legislation or address other concerns in our district – my door and phone lines are always open!

Sen. Rick Jeffares (R – McDonough)