Georgia Politics: The Crossover Day Odyssey

Crossover Day in Georgia means it’s the final day for any proposed laws that must move from one legislative chamber to the other for consideration. If a bill doesn’t pass, it is dead for that session. Here are some bills (and topics) of consequence that either passed or stalled on Crossover Day.  Georgia Republicans pass controversial illegal immigrant bill & House Bill 1105 passed along party lines, 97-74 after lengthy debate. According to the legislation, it requires Georgia law enforcement to cooperate with federal authorities in the administration and adjudication of immigration laws. This bill came to light after Georgia Governor Brian Kemp blamed President Joe Biden’s administration for the death of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old Augusta University student in Athens on Friday, February 23rd.& The alleged suspect, Jose Antonio Ibarra, 26, is not a U.S. citizen. He resides in the Athens area. Ibarra faces charges of malice murder, felony murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, false imprisonment, kidnapping, hindering a 911 call, and concealing the death of another.& Additionally, the legislation does call for local agencies to be required to apply for and enter into memorandums of understanding in order to enforce federal immigration and customs laws and assist with...