Rep. Deffenbaugh: Georgia House Update

Monday, March 11, 2013 - by Rep. John Deffenbaugh

March 4-7 was a busy time in the Georgia House of Representatives.  We discussed and voted on many House Bills forwarded to the Senate for consideration.

HB105 corrected the 2012-2013 budget through June of 2013.  HB123 The Parent/Teacher Empowerment Act was passed to the Senate. In this act the local school board has the final say in determining whether an academic change needs to be made.  HB188 will allow the veteran to have credit in some fields, such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, while integrating into a civilian career.  HB512 the Safe Carry Protection Act was passed and sent to the Senate.  It is a comprehensive amendment of multiple sections of Georgia’s weapon code to allow for expanded carry rights for license holders. 

If you have any questions, or comments, please call.

John Deffenbaugh
District 1 Representative


Leave Lincoln Park Alone

I am saddened and disappointed that city officials are planning on placing a road through the former site of Lincoln Park.   Lincoln Park was a rare source of enjoyment and entertainment for African Americans, where families came together for relaxation and celebration.   The park was a preferred destination for African Americans throughout the local region and residents ... (click for more)

Immigration Reform - And Response

We do not have to pander to those in our country who were not invited and made their way here on their own. They are here against our laws that are already on the books which are not enforced.  They do not have negotiation rights to dictate to the United States government nor does our government have the right to pick and choose which laws are to be enforced or ignored so ... (click for more)

Wade Hinton Named City Attorney

Wade Hinton, who led Mayor Andy Berke's transition team, has been chosen as city attorney. It is a joint appointment with the City Council, and the move was endorsed by a number of council members who appeared with the mayor at a press conference on Friday morning. Mayor Berke did not retain Mike McMahan, the longtime city attorney. He passed over Phil Noblett, a longtime ... (click for more)

Man Convicted Of Smuggling Young First Cousin To Chattanooga And Having Sex With Her Must Serve 15 And Half Years In Prison

A man convicted of smuggling his young first cousin into Chattanooga and having sex with her has been sentenced to serve 15 years and six months in federal prison. German Rolando Vicente-Sapon, 41, of Guatemala, was sentenced by Judge Curtis Collier. Following a three-day trial, a jury convicted Vicente-Sapon in November 2012 for transporting a minor across the Mexican ... (click for more)

Silverdale Comes Up Short To Friendship In Class A Baseball Title Game

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – The dream season ended in disappointment for Silverdale Baptist Academy. Friendship Christian left-hander Brennan Swindol, a Chattanooga State signee, threw a seven-hit shutout as the Commanders beat the Seahawks, 4-0, in the 2013 Class A state baseball tournament championship game Friday at Middle Tennessee State University. On a brilliant sun-splashed, ... (click for more)

GPS Claims State Doubles Crown

MURFREESBORO - - Wearing all black under a blue sky, the GPS Bruisers team of Emma McCallie and Michelle Fleenor left their opponents feeling black and blue as they claimed a state doubles crown here Friday at Old Fort Park after winning three, straight-set matches at BlueCross Spring Fling XX. In the finals, the GPS duo edged Francie George-Gracie Donoghue (Harpeth Hall),6-4 ... (click for more)