Georgia Governor Nathan Deal spoke at the Dougherty County Roatry Club lunch meeting Wednesday at Doublegate Country Club to speak to Albanians about the recent legislative session. Deal spoke earlier in the morning in Valdosta to commemorate the $32 million bond package that will create the new Health Sciences and Business Administration building at Valdosta State University.

Dougherty County Commision Chairman Jeff Sinyard introduced the governor with local rotarians in attendance.

In his speech, Deal recapped the recent legislative session thanking the legislature for working together so well. “We had almost unanimous support for all the legislation during this short session.”

The Governor emphasized criminal justice reform. “One in thirteen Georgians are under supervised care costing Georgia over a billion dollars a year.” Deal said more resources are needed in mental health care to restore those charged in crimes.  

Deal also spoke about tax reform and his administration’s Competitiveness Initiative. Among the highlights: 

• Phasing out of sales tax on energy usage by manufacturers. 
• Eliminating the birthday tax. Now Georgians only have to buy their tag. 
• Marriage tax penalty reform, up to $7000 in tax credits for married couples. 
• Increased sales tax incentives for farmers. 

During Deal’s tenure, there have been 467 new or expanding businesses creating over 30,000 new jobs and representing over $5 billion in capital investments. Companies like Starbucks, Caterpillar, Baxter international, Home Depot and Lowes have all announced major expansions into Georgia. 

In terms of the size of government, Georgia is spending the same per capita as in 1994 when adjusted for inflation. “With our improvements to our budget we added days back to the pre-k program. We are investing in craft skill education and implementing a reading mentor program. We have also maintained the low interest loan program for students.”

Deal stated that the size of the state’s workforce is at its lowest level in 14 years. “We are using the savings for the rainy day fund.”