Another week has come and gone under the Gold Dome, which means we now have just 32 legislative days left of the 2017 legislative session. From the budget hearings, to the beginning of committee meetings, my first couple of weeks have been filled with new experiences and I am still taking it all in.

This week the State of the Judiciary Address was given by Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice P. Harris Hines. In his address, Chief Justice Hines mentioned that Georgia has the highest probation rate in the nation, the majority of whom are non-violent offenders, and more than 800,000 people are forced to represent themselves in court. To combat these problems, Chief Justice Hines suggests moving low risk offenders off probation once they have completed the necessary period of supervision and creating a system, law or court rule that will make it easier for people to receive legal assistance.

These problems are felt statewide and have an adverse affect on many lower and middle class individuals. Issues like these can and should be fixed, and I’m glad Chief Justice Hines has decided to take a stance and propose solutions that will create positive change for Georgia’s lower and working class.

Our neighbors to the south recently suffered loss of life and major damages to homes and businesses in the wake of severe storms and tornados. The impact of these storms will take some time to repair, and I encourage all of us in District 43 to do what we can to help our fellow Georgians, whether it is with a donation or prayer. I am confident southwest Georgia will recover and come back stronger than ever. After all, Georgians are resilient and hardworking people who represent some of the best things our nation has to offer.

If you are ever at the Capitol, please stop by my office. I would love the opportunity to talk to you and hear your comments and concerns, after all, you’re the reason I’m here. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you at the state capitol!

Senator Tonya Anderson represents the 43rd Senate District, which includes portions of DeKalb, Newton and Rockdale counties. She may be reached by email at tonya.anderson@senate.ga.gov.