O.C.G.A. § 50-6-1 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 6 / Section 50-6-1
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-6-1
Status: in_force

(a) The Department of Audits and Accounts is created and established. The head of the department shall be an experienced auditor and accountant with not less than five years' experience as an accountant in the Department of Audits and Accounts or in a governmental agency of a similar nature or shall be a duly certified public accountant with at least five years' practical experience in the duties for which he is certified and who, when named or elected as prescribed in subsection (b) of this Code section and when qualified, shall be known and designated as state auditor.

(a) The Department of Audits and Accounts is created and established. The head of the department shall be an experienced auditor and accountant with not less than five years' experience as an accountant in the Department of Audits and Accounts or in a governmental agency of a similar nature or shall be a duly certified public accountant with at least five years' practical experience in the duties for which he is certified and who, when named or elected as prescribed in subsection (b) of this Code section and when qualified, shall be known and designated as state auditor.

(b) The state auditor shall be elected by the General Assembly in the following manner: A joint resolution which shall fix a definite time for the nomination and election of the state auditor may be introduced in either branch of the General Assembly. Upon passage of the resolution by a majority vote of the membership of the Senate and House of Representatives it shall be the duty of the Speaker of the House of Representatives to call for the nomination and election of the state auditor at the time specified in the resolution, at which time the name of the qualified person receiving a majority vote of the membership of the House of Representatives shall be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation. Upon the qualified person's receiving a majority vote of the membership of the Senate, he shall be declared the duly elected state auditor; and the Governor shall be notified of his election by the Secretary of the Senate. The Governor is directed to administer the oath of office to the state auditor and to furnish the state auditor with a properly executed commission of office certifying his election.

(b) The state auditor shall be elected by the General Assembly in the following manner: A joint resolution which shall fix a definite time for the nomination and election of the state auditor may be introduced in either branch of the General Assembly. Upon passage of the resolution by a majority vote of the membership of the Senate and House of Representatives it shall be the duty of the Speaker of the House of Representatives to call for the nomination and election of the state auditor at the time specified in the resolution, at which time the name of the qualified person receiving a majority vote of the membership of the House of Representatives shall be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation. Upon the qualified person's receiving a majority vote of the membership of the Senate, he shall be declared the duly elected state auditor; and the Governor shall be notified of his election by the Secretary of the Senate. The Governor is directed to administer the oath of office to the state auditor and to furnish the state auditor with a properly executed commission of office certifying his election.

(c) The term of office of the state auditor shall continue until a successor is elected as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section. In the event of a vacancy in the position of state auditor at a time when the General Assembly is not in session it shall be the duty of the Governor and he is empowered and directed to appoint a state auditor possessing the qualifications as provided in subsection (a) of this Code section who shall serve as state auditor until the next regular session of the General Assembly, at which time the nomination and election of a state auditor shall be held by the General Assembly as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section.

(c) The term of office of the state auditor shall continue until a successor is elected as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section. In the event of a vacancy in the position of state auditor at a time when the General Assembly is not in session it shall be the duty of the Governor and he is empowered and directed to appoint a state auditor possessing the qualifications as provided in subsection (a) of this Code section who shall serve as state auditor until the next regular session of the General Assembly, at which time the nomination and election of a state auditor shall be held by the General Assembly as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 50-29-20 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 29 / Section 50-29-20
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-29-20
Status: in_force

As used in this article, the term:

(1) “ Company ” means any sole proprietorship, organization, association, corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, limited liability company, or other entity or business association, including all wholly owned subsidiaries, majority owned subsidiaries, parent companies, or affiliates of such entities or business associations, that exists for the purpose of making profit.

(1) “ Company ” means any sole proprietorship, organization, association, corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, limited liability company, or other entity or business association, including all wholly owned subsidiaries, majority owned subsidiaries, parent companies, or affiliates of such entities or business associations, that exists for the purpose of making profit.

(2) “ Foreign adversary ” means a foreign government or foreign nongovernmental entity as listed in 15 C.F.R. 7.4(a) in effect on January 1, 2023.

(2) “ Foreign adversary ” means a foreign government or foreign nongovernmental entity as listed in 15 C.F.R. 7.4(a) in effect on January 1, 2023.

(3) “ Social media platform ” means an internet website or application that is open to the public, allows users to create accounts, enables users to communicate or interact with other users, permits users to create or post content, messages, information, or images that are viewable by other users, and permits users to comment on or message other users regarding such content, messages, information, or images.

(3) “ Social media platform ” means an internet website or application that is open to the public, allows users to create accounts, enables users to communicate or interact with other users, permits users to create or post content, messages, information, or images that are viewable by other users, and permits users to comment on or message other users regarding such content, messages, information, or images.

(4) “ State agency ” means any agency, authority, department, institution, board, bureau, commission, committee, office, or instrumentality of the executive, legislative, or judicial branch of government of this state.

(4) “ State agency ” means any agency, authority, department, institution, board, bureau, commission, committee, office, or instrumentality of the executive, legislative, or judicial branch of government of this state.

(5) “ State employee ” means an officer, official, employee, or independent contractor of a state agency.

(5) “ State employee ” means an officer, official, employee, or independent contractor of a state agency.

(6) “ State equipment ” means any electronic device, including any system, computer, mobile electronic device, or other technological equipment capable of internet connectivity, that is owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by a state agency and used for state business.

(6) “ State equipment ” means any electronic device, including any system, computer, mobile electronic device, or other technological equipment capable of internet connectivity, that is owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by a state agency and used for state business.

(7) “ Student ” means a person who is included in a full-time equivalent program count under Code Section 20-2-160 .

(7) “ Student ” means a person who is included in a full-time equivalent program count under Code Section 20-2-160 .
O.C.G.A. § 50-8-61 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 8 / Section 50-8-61
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-8-61
Status: in_force

(a) For the purposes of this chapter, when a commission or nonprofit corporation administers a contract in which it procures goods or services or makes loans or otherwise directs the expenditure of funds, no employee who is compensated for his or her services by either the commission or nonprofit corporation or any member of a board or advisory committee of the commission or nonprofit corporation that plays a role in determining such contracts, loans, or procurement decisions shall also serve, during the period of any such contract, loan, or procurement decision, as a board member, officer, independent contractor, or paid employee of the entity contracting with, borrowing from, or otherwise receiving funds from the commission or nonprofit corporation.

(a) For the purposes of this chapter, when a commission or nonprofit corporation administers a contract in which it procures goods or services or makes loans or otherwise directs the expenditure of funds, no employee who is compensated for his or her services by either the commission or nonprofit corporation or any member of a board or advisory committee of the commission or nonprofit corporation that plays a role in determining such contracts, loans, or procurement decisions shall also serve, during the period of any such contract, loan, or procurement decision, as a board member, officer, independent contractor, or paid employee of the entity contracting with, borrowing from, or otherwise receiving funds from the commission or nonprofit corporation.

(b) This Code section shall not preclude an employee of a commission from serving, without compensation, as an officer of a nonprofit corporation for the purposes of executing loan transactions; nor shall this Code section preclude a commission and any nonprofit corporation that it creates or controls from entering into a contract with the other for the provision of staff services. In addition, this Code section shall not preclude an employee of a private financial institution from serving on a loan review or other advisory committee of a nonprofit corporation even when such financial institution participates in a loan of the nonprofit corporation. Further, this Code section shall not preclude a board member of a commission from also serving as a member of a board or advisory committee of a nonprofit corporation created pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection (f) of Code Section 50-8-35 .

(b) This Code section shall not preclude an employee of a commission from serving, without compensation, as an officer of a nonprofit corporation for the purposes of executing loan transactions; nor shall this Code section preclude a commission and any nonprofit corporation that it creates or controls from entering into a contract with the other for the provision of staff services. In addition, this Code section shall not preclude an employee of a private financial institution from serving on a loan review or other advisory committee of a nonprofit corporation even when such financial institution participates in a loan of the nonprofit corporation. Further, this Code section shall not preclude a board member of a commission from also serving as a member of a board or advisory committee of a nonprofit corporation created pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection (f) of Code Section 50-8-35 .

(c) Any person who knowingly violates this Code section shall be subject to the penalties provided for in Code Section 50-8-66 .

(c) Any person who knowingly violates this Code section shall be subject to the penalties provided for in Code Section 50-8-66 .
O.C.G.A. § 50-12-100 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 12 / Section 50-12-100
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-12-100
Status: in_force

There is created the Constitutional Amendments Publication Board to be composed of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The board shall provide for the publication of proposed constitutional amendments or of a proposed new Constitution, or of both such amendments and such Constitution, pursuant to Article X, Section I, Paragraph II of the Constitution . The Governor shall be chairman of the board, which shall meet upon the call of the chairman or upon the call of any two members of the board. The chairman shall have a vote on all actions the same as the other members of the board and no action shall be taken without the affirmative vote of any two members of the board.
O.C.G.A. § 50-7-70 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 7 / Section 50-7-70
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-7-70
Status: in_force

(a) The General Assembly finds that: (1) Agricultural tourist attractions provide unique opportunities for tourists to enjoy Georgia's resources; and (2) Agricultural tourist attractions provide an impact on Georgia's economy and a substantial benefit to Georgia.

(a) The General Assembly finds that:

(1) Agricultural tourist attractions provide unique opportunities for tourists to enjoy Georgia's resources; and

(1) Agricultural tourist attractions provide unique opportunities for tourists to enjoy Georgia's resources; and

(2) Agricultural tourist attractions provide an impact on Georgia's economy and a substantial benefit to Georgia.

(2) Agricultural tourist attractions provide an impact on Georgia's economy and a substantial benefit to Georgia.

(b) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Agricultural tourist attraction ” means any agricultural based business providing on-site attractions to tourists that meet the criteria set out by the Department of Agriculture. (2) “ Department ” means the Department of Agriculture. (3) “Directional signs” shall have the meaning provided in paragraph (4) of Code Section 32-6-71 .

(b) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “ Agricultural tourist attraction ” means any agricultural based business providing on-site attractions to tourists that meet the criteria set out by the Department of Agriculture.

(1) “ Agricultural tourist attraction ” means any agricultural based business providing on-site attractions to tourists that meet the criteria set out by the Department of Agriculture.

(2) “ Department ” means the Department of Agriculture.

(2) “ Department ” means the Department of Agriculture.

(3) “Directional signs” shall have the meaning provided in paragraph (4) of Code Section 32-6-71 .

(3) “Directional signs” shall have the meaning provided in paragraph (4) of Code Section 32-6-71 .

(c) The Department of Agriculture shall: (1) Develop criteria and an application process to determine what constitutes an agricultural tourist attraction; and (2) Maintain a registry of approved agricultural tourist attractions.

(c) The Department of Agriculture shall:

(1) Develop criteria and an application process to determine what constitutes an agricultural tourist attraction; and

(1) Develop criteria and an application process to determine what constitutes an agricultural tourist attraction; and

(2) Maintain a registry of approved agricultural tourist attractions.

(2) Maintain a registry of approved agricultural tourist attractions.

(d) Entities wishing to be recognized by the department as an agricultural tourist attraction shall submit an application to the department with a one-time application fee of not less than $300.00.

(d) Entities wishing to be recognized by the department as an agricultural tourist attraction shall submit an application to the department with a one-time application fee of not less than $300.00.

(e) Upon approval by the department as an agricultural tourist attraction and at the request of the applicant, the department shall, in conjunction with the Department of Transportation, take the appropriate steps to place directional signs along roads in the direct proximity of the agricultural tourist attraction to direct passing traffic to the agricultural tourist attraction.

(e) Upon approval by the department as an agricultural tourist attraction and at the request of the applicant, the department shall, in conjunction with the Department of Transportation, take the appropriate steps to place directional signs along roads in the direct proximity of the agricultural tourist attraction to direct passing traffic to the agricultural tourist attraction.

(f) The department and the Department of Transportation shall create rules and regulations for the purpose of implementing this Code section.

(f) The department and the Department of Transportation shall create rules and regulations for the purpose of implementing this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 50-1-1 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 1 / Section 50-1-1
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-1-1
Status: in_force

(a) For the purpose of this Code section, the term “state agency” means a department, agency, board, commission, or authority of state government.

(a) For the purpose of this Code section, the term “state agency” means a department, agency, board, commission, or authority of state government.

(b) Each state agency is required to update annually all mailing lists of the agency.

(b) Each state agency is required to update annually all mailing lists of the agency.

(c) No state agency shall mail publications or materials to a previously elected state officer who is no longer in office except upon written request.

(c) No state agency shall mail publications or materials to a previously elected state officer who is no longer in office except upon written request.
O.C.G.A. § 50-18-103 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 18 / Section 50-18-103
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-18-103
Status: in_force

Whenever laws or rules and regulations prescribe where a record series must be kept, the custodian of the records shall be considered in compliance with the laws and rules and regulations if he transfers the records to a local holding area, a records center, or the Georgia State Archives when he does so in accordance with an approved retention schedule.
O.C.G.A. § 50-39-14 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 39 / Section 50-39-14
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-39-14
Status: in_force

(a) In furtherance of the purposes of the authority, no project of the Georgia Rail Passenger Authority created by Article 9 of Chapter 9 of Title 46 which is located wholly or partly within the geographic area over which the authority has jurisdiction shall be commenced after May 6, 1999, unless such project is approved by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the authorized membership of the board of directors of the authority pursuant to a motion made for that purpose; provided, however, that where such project is an approved transportation control measure pursuant to an approved state implementation plan, such project may proceed consistent with applicable federal law and regulation.

(a) In furtherance of the purposes of the authority, no project of the Georgia Rail Passenger Authority created by Article 9 of Chapter 9 of Title 46 which is located wholly or partly within the geographic area over which the authority has jurisdiction shall be commenced after May 6, 1999, unless such project is approved by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the authorized membership of the board of directors of the authority pursuant to a motion made for that purpose; provided, however, that where such project is an approved transportation control measure pursuant to an approved state implementation plan, such project may proceed consistent with applicable federal law and regulation.

(b) From time to time, by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the authorized membership of the board of directors of the authority, the authority may direct the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority to issue revenue bonds, bonds, notes, loans, credit agreements, or other obligations or facilities to finance, in whole or in part, any project or the cost of any project of the authority wholly or partly within the geographic area over which the authority has jurisdiction, by means of a loan, extension of credit, or grant from the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority to the authority, on such terms or conditions as shall be concluded between the two authorities; provided that such debt is consistent with the state debt management plan as established by the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission pursuant to Chapter 17 of this title, the “Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission Act.”

(b) From time to time, by the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the authorized membership of the board of directors of the authority, the authority may direct the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority to issue revenue bonds, bonds, notes, loans, credit agreements, or other obligations or facilities to finance, in whole or in part, any project or the cost of any project of the authority wholly or partly within the geographic area over which the authority has jurisdiction, by means of a loan, extension of credit, or grant from the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority to the authority, on such terms or conditions as shall be concluded between the two authorities; provided that such debt is consistent with the state debt management plan as established by the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission pursuant to Chapter 17 of this title, the “Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission Act.”

(c) The Georgia Environmental Finance Authority shall be subordinate to the authority in all respects, with respect to authority projects, within the geographic area over which the authority has jurisdiction; and, in the event of any conflict with the provisions of Chapter 23 of this title, the provisions of this chapter shall prevail in all respects. It is expressly provided, however, that nothing in this Code section and nothing in this chapter shall be construed to permit in any manner the alteration, elimination, or impairment of any term, provision, covenant, or obligation imposed on any state authority, including but not limited to this authority, the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority, the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority, or the Georgia Rail Passenger Authority, for the benefit of any owner or holder of any bond, note, or other obligation of any such authority.

(c) The Georgia Environmental Finance Authority shall be subordinate to the authority in all respects, with respect to authority projects, within the geographic area over which the authority has jurisdiction; and, in the event of any conflict with the provisions of Chapter 23 of this title, the provisions of this chapter shall prevail in all respects. It is expressly provided, however, that nothing in this Code section and nothing in this chapter shall be construed to permit in any manner the alteration, elimination, or impairment of any term, provision, covenant, or obligation imposed on any state authority, including but not limited to this authority, the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority, the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority, or the Georgia Rail Passenger Authority, for the benefit of any owner or holder of any bond, note, or other obligation of any such authority.
O.C.G.A. § 50-34-20 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 34 / Section 50-34-20
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-34-20
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Mental health care provider ” means: (A) A clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric/mental health authorized under the laws of this state to practice as a registered professional nurse and who is recognized by the Georgia Board of Nursing to be engaged in advanced nursing practice as a clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric/mental health; (B) A clinical social worker authorized to practice under the laws of this state; (C) A marriage and family therapist authorized to practice under the laws of this state; (D) A professional counselor authorized to practice under the laws of this state; (E) A psychologist authorized to practice under the laws of this state; and (F) A psychiatrist authorized to practice under the laws of this state. (2) “ Primary care medical facility ” means any facility where the majority of the services provided are primary care, dental, or mental health services. (3) “ Primary care medical provider ” means any person authorized under the laws of this state to practice as a dentist, physician, or mental health care provider.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “ Mental health care provider ” means: (A) A clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric/mental health authorized under the laws of this state to practice as a registered professional nurse and who is recognized by the Georgia Board of Nursing to be engaged in advanced nursing practice as a clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric/mental health; (B) A clinical social worker authorized to practice under the laws of this state; (C) A marriage and family therapist authorized to practice under the laws of this state; (D) A professional counselor authorized to practice under the laws of this state; (E) A psychologist authorized to practice under the laws of this state; and (F) A psychiatrist authorized to practice under the laws of this state.

(1) “ Mental health care provider ” means:

(A) A clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric/mental health authorized under the laws of this state to practice as a registered professional nurse and who is recognized by the Georgia Board of Nursing to be engaged in advanced nursing practice as a clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric/mental health;

(A) A clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric/mental health authorized under the laws of this state to practice as a registered professional nurse and who is recognized by the Georgia Board of Nursing to be engaged in advanced nursing practice as a clinical nurse specialist in psychiatric/mental health;

(B) A clinical social worker authorized to practice under the laws of this state;

(B) A clinical social worker authorized to practice under the laws of this state;

(C) A marriage and family therapist authorized to practice under the laws of this state;

(C) A marriage and family therapist authorized to practice under the laws of this state;

(D) A professional counselor authorized to practice under the laws of this state;

(D) A professional counselor authorized to practice under the laws of this state;

(E) A psychologist authorized to practice under the laws of this state; and

(E) A psychologist authorized to practice under the laws of this state; and

(F) A psychiatrist authorized to practice under the laws of this state.

(F) A psychiatrist authorized to practice under the laws of this state.

(2) “ Primary care medical facility ” means any facility where the majority of the services provided are primary care, dental, or mental health services.

(2) “ Primary care medical facility ” means any facility where the majority of the services provided are primary care, dental, or mental health services.

(3) “ Primary care medical provider ” means any person authorized under the laws of this state to practice as a dentist, physician, or mental health care provider.

(3) “ Primary care medical provider ” means any person authorized under the laws of this state to practice as a dentist, physician, or mental health care provider.

(b) Subject to available funding, the authority shall establish and administer a grant program which shall serve the purpose of awarding grants to eligible applicants to establish primary care medical facilities in health professional shortage areas as designated by the Department of Community Health.

(b) Subject to available funding, the authority shall establish and administer a grant program which shall serve the purpose of awarding grants to eligible applicants to establish primary care medical facilities in health professional shortage areas as designated by the Department of Community Health.

(c) Any development authority established pursuant to Chapter 62 of Title 36 shall be eligible to apply for such a grant provided that, prior to application, the local governing bodies that created such authority have endorsed the proposed project in writing and have pledged to contribute to the project as prescribed by the rules and regulations of the authority.

(c) Any development authority established pursuant to Chapter 62 of Title 36 shall be eligible to apply for such a grant provided that, prior to application, the local governing bodies that created such authority have endorsed the proposed project in writing and have pledged to contribute to the project as prescribed by the rules and regulations of the authority.

(d) To the extent permitted by Chapter 62 of Title 36, a development authority may: (1) Enter into a lease-purchase agreement with one or more primary care medical providers to lease and operate the primary care medical facility established with funds provided pursuant to this Code section; and (2) Convey any remaining ownership interest in such facility to such primary care medical providers who have provided services at the facility under such lease-purchase agreement for at least ten years.

(d) To the extent permitted by Chapter 62 of Title 36, a development authority may:

(1) Enter into a lease-purchase agreement with one or more primary care medical providers to lease and operate the primary care medical facility established with funds provided pursuant to this Code section; and

(1) Enter into a lease-purchase agreement with one or more primary care medical providers to lease and operate the primary care medical facility established with funds provided pursuant to this Code section; and

(2) Convey any remaining ownership interest in such facility to such primary care medical providers who have provided services at the facility under such lease-purchase agreement for at least ten years.

(2) Convey any remaining ownership interest in such facility to such primary care medical providers who have provided services at the facility under such lease-purchase agreement for at least ten years.

(e) The amount of any grant awarded pursuant to this Code section shall not exceed $200,000.00 and shall be determined by the authority on a case-by-case review of applications consistent with criteria to be prescribed by the authority which shall include, but shall not be limited to, the: (1) Primary care shortage in the community; (2) Degree of local commitment; (3) Consistency with local and regional healthcare goals and objectives; (4) Project readiness and feasibility; (5) Geographic distribution of existing primary care facilities; and (6) Reasonableness of cost estimates.

(e) The amount of any grant awarded pursuant to this Code section shall not exceed $200,000.00 and shall be determined by the authority on a case-by-case review of applications consistent with criteria to be prescribed by the authority which shall include, but shall not be limited to, the:

(1) Primary care shortage in the community;

(1) Primary care shortage in the community;

(2) Degree of local commitment;

(2) Degree of local commitment;

(3) Consistency with local and regional healthcare goals and objectives;

(3) Consistency with local and regional healthcare goals and objectives;

(4) Project readiness and feasibility;

(4) Project readiness and feasibility;

(5) Geographic distribution of existing primary care facilities; and

(5) Geographic distribution of existing primary care facilities; and

(6) Reasonableness of cost estimates.

(6) Reasonableness of cost estimates.

(f) All applications for grants under this Code section shall include a recommendation from the Department of Community Health that the proposed project will significantly develop and promote a primary care medical facility and promote the general welfare of this state.

(f) All applications for grants under this Code section shall include a recommendation from the Department of Community Health that the proposed project will significantly develop and promote a primary care medical facility and promote the general welfare of this state.

(g) After reviewing an application, the authority shall submit any pending grant award to the Governor and the Board of Community Health for approval before such grant shall be awarded.

(g) After reviewing an application, the authority shall submit any pending grant award to the Governor and the Board of Community Health for approval before such grant shall be awarded.

(h) The authority shall adopt such rules and regulations as are reasonable and necessary to implement and administer the grant program established under this Code section.

(h) The authority shall adopt such rules and regulations as are reasonable and necessary to implement and administer the grant program established under this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 50-8-3-1 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 8 / Section 50-8-3-1
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-8-3.1
Status: in_force

(a) The department shall have the power and duty to investigate fraud and abuse in the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program administered by the department pursuant to 42 U.S.C. Section 1437, et seq.

(a) The department shall have the power and duty to investigate fraud and abuse in the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program administered by the department pursuant to 42 U.S.C. Section 1437, et seq.

(b) When cases of criminal fraud or abuse are discovered or detected, the department shall refer such cases where warranted to the district attorney of the county in which the fraud or abuse occurred for prosecution. Such cases shall be prosecuted as violations of Code Section 16-8-3 , relating to theft by deception; Code Section 16-10-20 , relating to making false statements or writings; Code Section 16-10-71 , relating to false swearing; or any other such criminal provision as the district attorney may deem appropriate under the facts and circumstances of the case.

(b) When cases of criminal fraud or abuse are discovered or detected, the department shall refer such cases where warranted to the district attorney of the county in which the fraud or abuse occurred for prosecution. Such cases shall be prosecuted as violations of Code Section 16-8-3 , relating to theft by deception; Code Section 16-10-20 , relating to making false statements or writings; Code Section 16-10-71 , relating to false swearing; or any other such criminal provision as the district attorney may deem appropriate under the facts and circumstances of the case.

(c) When a case of fraud or abuse is discovered or detected that is not criminal in nature or when a prosecutor declines to prosecute a case referred by the department under this Code section, the department shall have the authority to settle such case on such terms and conditions as the department finds suitable under the facts and circumstances of the case. In addition, the department shall be authorized to initiate and prosecute civil actions to recoup overpayments or improper payments. The department shall also have the authority to settle such civil cases on such terms and conditions as the department finds suitable under the facts and circumstances of the cases.

(c) When a case of fraud or abuse is discovered or detected that is not criminal in nature or when a prosecutor declines to prosecute a case referred by the department under this Code section, the department shall have the authority to settle such case on such terms and conditions as the department finds suitable under the facts and circumstances of the case. In addition, the department shall be authorized to initiate and prosecute civil actions to recoup overpayments or improper payments. The department shall also have the authority to settle such civil cases on such terms and conditions as the department finds suitable under the facts and circumstances of the cases.

(d)(1) Prior to the filing of an accusation or the return of an indictment alleging fraud or abuse in the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program administered by the department, a prosecuting attorney may defer further prosecution of such accusation or indictment and shall have the authority to enter into a consent agreement with the individual in which such individual admits to any overpayment, consents to disqualification for such period of time as is or may hereafter be provided by law or by the rules and regulations of the department, and agrees to repay, as restitution, such overpayment. Such agreement may provide for a lump sum repayment, installment payments, formula reduction of benefits, or any combination thereof. Such agreement shall toll the running of the statute of limitations for such offense for the period of the agreement. Prior to entering into such consent agreement with an individual, the prosecuting attorney or his or her designee shall advise such person that he or she may consult with an attorney prior to signing such consent agreement. If the individual so requests, he or she shall be afforded a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 15 days, to engage or consult an attorney. A consent agreement entered into in accordance with this subsection shall not constitute a criminal charge. (2) Any such agreement shall be filed in the criminal docket of the court having jurisdiction over the violation without the necessity of the state filing an accusation or an indictment being returned by a grand jury. The clerk shall enter upon the docket “CONSENT AGREEMENT NOT A CRIMINAL CHARGE.” (3) Upon successful completion of the terms and conditions of the consent agreement, criminal prosecution of the individual for such offense shall be barred; provided, however, that nothing in this paragraph shall prohibit the state from introducing evidence of such offense as a similar transaction in any subsequent prosecution or for the purpose of impeachment. The successful completion of the terms and conditions of the agreement shall not be considered a criminal conviction. (4) If the individual fails to comply with the terms of such consent agreement, the state may proceed with a criminal prosecution.

(d)(1) Prior to the filing of an accusation or the return of an indictment alleging fraud or abuse in the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program administered by the department, a prosecuting attorney may defer further prosecution of such accusation or indictment and shall have the authority to enter into a consent agreement with the individual in which such individual admits to any overpayment, consents to disqualification for such period of time as is or may hereafter be provided by law or by the rules and regulations of the department, and agrees to repay, as restitution, such overpayment. Such agreement may provide for a lump sum repayment, installment payments, formula reduction of benefits, or any combination thereof. Such agreement shall toll the running of the statute of limitations for such offense for the period of the agreement. Prior to entering into such consent agreement with an individual, the prosecuting attorney or his or her designee shall advise such person that he or she may consult with an attorney prior to signing such consent agreement. If the individual so requests, he or she shall be afforded a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 15 days, to engage or consult an attorney. A consent agreement entered into in accordance with this subsection shall not constitute a criminal charge.

(d)(1) Prior to the filing of an accusation or the return of an indictment alleging fraud or abuse in the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program administered by the department, a prosecuting attorney may defer further prosecution of such accusation or indictment and shall have the authority to enter into a consent agreement with the individual in which such individual admits to any overpayment, consents to disqualification for such period of time as is or may hereafter be provided by law or by the rules and regulations of the department, and agrees to repay, as restitution, such overpayment. Such agreement may provide for a lump sum repayment, installment payments, formula reduction of benefits, or any combination thereof. Such agreement shall toll the running of the statute of limitations for such offense for the period of the agreement. Prior to entering into such consent agreement with an individual, the prosecuting attorney or his or her designee shall advise such person that he or she may consult with an attorney prior to signing such consent agreement. If the individual so requests, he or she shall be afforded a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 15 days, to engage or consult an attorney. A consent agreement entered into in accordance with this subsection shall not constitute a criminal charge.

(2) Any such agreement shall be filed in the criminal docket of the court having jurisdiction over the violation without the necessity of the state filing an accusation or an indictment being returned by a grand jury. The clerk shall enter upon the docket “CONSENT AGREEMENT NOT A CRIMINAL CHARGE.”

(2) Any such agreement shall be filed in the criminal docket of the court having jurisdiction over the violation without the necessity of the state filing an accusation or an indictment being returned by a grand jury. The clerk shall enter upon the docket “CONSENT AGREEMENT NOT A CRIMINAL CHARGE.”

(3) Upon successful completion of the terms and conditions of the consent agreement, criminal prosecution of the individual for such offense shall be barred; provided, however, that nothing in this paragraph shall prohibit the state from introducing evidence of such offense as a similar transaction in any subsequent prosecution or for the purpose of impeachment. The successful completion of the terms and conditions of the agreement shall not be considered a criminal conviction.

(3) Upon successful completion of the terms and conditions of the consent agreement, criminal prosecution of the individual for such offense shall be barred; provided, however, that nothing in this paragraph shall prohibit the state from introducing evidence of such offense as a similar transaction in any subsequent prosecution or for the purpose of impeachment. The successful completion of the terms and conditions of the agreement shall not be considered a criminal conviction.

(4) If the individual fails to comply with the terms of such consent agreement, the state may proceed with a criminal prosecution.

(4) If the individual fails to comply with the terms of such consent agreement, the state may proceed with a criminal prosecution.
O.C.G.A. § 50-5c-2 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 5C / Section 50-5c-2
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-5C-2
Status: in_force

For any qualifying project undertaken by the State Properties Commission, the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission shall be solely authorized to develop guidelines for this process. For any qualifying project undertaken by the University System of Georgia, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia shall be solely authorized to develop guidelines for this process.
O.C.G.A. § 50-22-3 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 22 / Section 50-22-3
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-22-3
Status: in_force

Public notice shall be required for each proposed project which requires professional services. Such public notice shall be given at least 15 days prior to the selection of the three or more most highly qualified persons by the principal representative or the principal representative's designee pursuant to subsection (b) of Code Section 50-22-4 . Such public notice shall be given by publication at least once in the Georgia Procurement Registry established under subsection (b) of Code Section 50-5-69 and in addition may be given by publication in one or more daily newspapers of general circulation in this state, shall contain a general description of the proposed project, and shall indicate what selection method shall be used and the procedure by which interested persons may apply for consideration for the contract.
O.C.G.A. § 50-3-120 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 3 / Section 50-3-120
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-3-120
Status: in_force

(a) Subject to the availability of funds, there shall be placed within the capitol building or grounds a monument honoring the memory and legacy of the Honorable Zell Bryan Miller.

(a) Subject to the availability of funds, there shall be placed within the capitol building or grounds a monument honoring the memory and legacy of the Honorable Zell Bryan Miller.

(b)(1) Such monument shall be designed, procured, and placed by the Capitol Art Standards Commission, subject to final approval by a monument committee composed of the following members of the General Assembly: (A) Two members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; (B) Two members of the Senate appointed by the Lieutenant Governor; and (C) One member from each house of the General Assembly appointed by the Governor. (2) The monument committee established pursuant to this subsection shall stand abolished upon placement of such monument.

(b)(1) Such monument shall be designed, procured, and placed by the Capitol Art Standards Commission, subject to final approval by a monument committee composed of the following members of the General Assembly: (A) Two members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; (B) Two members of the Senate appointed by the Lieutenant Governor; and (C) One member from each house of the General Assembly appointed by the Governor.

(b)(1) Such monument shall be designed, procured, and placed by the Capitol Art Standards Commission, subject to final approval by a monument committee composed of the following members of the General Assembly:

(A) Two members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;

(A) Two members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;

(B) Two members of the Senate appointed by the Lieutenant Governor; and

(B) Two members of the Senate appointed by the Lieutenant Governor; and

(C) One member from each house of the General Assembly appointed by the Governor.

(C) One member from each house of the General Assembly appointed by the Governor.

(2) The monument committee established pursuant to this subsection shall stand abolished upon placement of such monument.

(2) The monument committee established pursuant to this subsection shall stand abolished upon placement of such monument.

(c) No public funds shall be expended for the design or procurement of such monument. Gifts and donations from private individuals, organizations, or foundations shall be accepted and expended by the Capitol Art Standards Commission to carry out the requirements of this Code section.

(c) No public funds shall be expended for the design or procurement of such monument. Gifts and donations from private individuals, organizations, or foundations shall be accepted and expended by the Capitol Art Standards Commission to carry out the requirements of this Code section.

(d) Such monument shall be procured and placed as soon as practicable but not before the state has been granted any intellectual property license necessary for purposes of this Code section.

(d) Such monument shall be procured and placed as soon as practicable but not before the state has been granted any intellectual property license necessary for purposes of this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 50-14-4 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 14 / Section 50-14-4
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-14-4
Status: in_force

(a) When any meeting of an agency is closed to the public pursuant to any provision of this chapter, the specific reasons for such closure shall be entered upon the official minutes, the meeting shall not be closed to the public except by a majority vote of a quorum present for the meeting, the minutes shall reflect the names of the members present and the names of those voting for closure, and that part of the minutes shall be made available to the public as any other minutes. Where a meeting of an agency is devoted in part to matters within the exceptions provided by law, any portion of the meeting not subject to any such exception, privilege, or confidentiality shall be open to the public, and the minutes of such portions not subject to any such exception shall be taken, recorded, and open to public inspection as provided in subsection (e) of Code Section 50-14-1 .

(a) When any meeting of an agency is closed to the public pursuant to any provision of this chapter, the specific reasons for such closure shall be entered upon the official minutes, the meeting shall not be closed to the public except by a majority vote of a quorum present for the meeting, the minutes shall reflect the names of the members present and the names of those voting for closure, and that part of the minutes shall be made available to the public as any other minutes. Where a meeting of an agency is devoted in part to matters within the exceptions provided by law, any portion of the meeting not subject to any such exception, privilege, or confidentiality shall be open to the public, and the minutes of such portions not subject to any such exception shall be taken, recorded, and open to public inspection as provided in subsection (e) of Code Section 50-14-1 .

(b)(1) When any meeting of an agency is closed to the public pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section, the person presiding over such meeting or, if the agency's policy so provides, each member of the governing body of the agency attending such meeting, shall execute and file with the official minutes of the meeting a notarized affidavit stating under oath that the subject matter of the meeting or the closed portion thereof was devoted to matters within the exceptions provided by law and identifying the specific relevant exception. (2) In the event that one or more persons in an executive session initiates a discussion that is not authorized pursuant to Code Section 50-14-3 , the presiding officer shall immediately rule the discussion out of order and all present shall cease the questioned conversation. If one or more persons continue or attempt to continue the discussion after being ruled out of order, the presiding officer shall immediately adjourn the executive session.

(b)(1) When any meeting of an agency is closed to the public pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section, the person presiding over such meeting or, if the agency's policy so provides, each member of the governing body of the agency attending such meeting, shall execute and file with the official minutes of the meeting a notarized affidavit stating under oath that the subject matter of the meeting or the closed portion thereof was devoted to matters within the exceptions provided by law and identifying the specific relevant exception.

(b)(1) When any meeting of an agency is closed to the public pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section, the person presiding over such meeting or, if the agency's policy so provides, each member of the governing body of the agency attending such meeting, shall execute and file with the official minutes of the meeting a notarized affidavit stating under oath that the subject matter of the meeting or the closed portion thereof was devoted to matters within the exceptions provided by law and identifying the specific relevant exception.

(2) In the event that one or more persons in an executive session initiates a discussion that is not authorized pursuant to Code Section 50-14-3 , the presiding officer shall immediately rule the discussion out of order and all present shall cease the questioned conversation. If one or more persons continue or attempt to continue the discussion after being ruled out of order, the presiding officer shall immediately adjourn the executive session.

(2) In the event that one or more persons in an executive session initiates a discussion that is not authorized pursuant to Code Section 50-14-3 , the presiding officer shall immediately rule the discussion out of order and all present shall cease the questioned conversation. If one or more persons continue or attempt to continue the discussion after being ruled out of order, the presiding officer shall immediately adjourn the executive session.
O.C.G.A. § 50-9-34 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 9 / Section 50-9-34
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-9-34
Status: in_force

The authority may sell the bonds in such manner and for such price as it may determine to be for the best interests of the authority.
O.C.G.A. § 50-8-217 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 8 / Section 50-8-217
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-8-217
Status: in_force

In the event any conflict arises in or with the facilities development committee in the preparation and submission of a local plan, such conflict shall be resolved by the department in the manner provided by subsection (d) of Code Section 50-8-7.1 .
O.C.G.A. § 50-13-42 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 13 / Section 50-13-42
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-13-42
Status: in_force

(a) In addition to those agencies expressly exempted from the operation of this chapter under paragraph (1) of Code Section 50-13-2 , this article shall not apply to the Commissioner of Agriculture, the Public Service Commission, the Certificate of Need Appeal Panel, or the Department of Community Health, unless specifically provided otherwise for certain programs or in relation to specific laws, or to the Department of Labor with respect to unemployment insurance benefit hearings conducted under the authority of Chapter 8 of Title 34. Such exclusion does not prohibit such office or agencies from contracting with the Office of State Administrative Hearings on a case-by-case basis.

(a) In addition to those agencies expressly exempted from the operation of this chapter under paragraph (1) of Code Section 50-13-2 , this article shall not apply to the Commissioner of Agriculture, the Public Service Commission, the Certificate of Need Appeal Panel, or the Department of Community Health, unless specifically provided otherwise for certain programs or in relation to specific laws, or to the Department of Labor with respect to unemployment insurance benefit hearings conducted under the authority of Chapter 8 of Title 34. Such exclusion does not prohibit such office or agencies from contracting with the Office of State Administrative Hearings on a case-by-case basis.

(b) This article shall apply to hearings conducted pursuant to Code Sections 45-20-8 and 45-20-9 . The State Personnel Board may provide by rule that proposed decisions in all or in specified classes of cases before the Office of State Administrative Hearings will become final without further action by the board and without expiration of the 30 day review period otherwise provided for in subsection (d) of Code Section 50-13-41 .

(b) This article shall apply to hearings conducted pursuant to Code Sections 45-20-8 and 45-20-9 . The State Personnel Board may provide by rule that proposed decisions in all or in specified classes of cases before the Office of State Administrative Hearings will become final without further action by the board and without expiration of the 30 day review period otherwise provided for in subsection (d) of Code Section 50-13-41 .

(c) This article shall not apply with respect to any matter as to which an aggrieved party is permitted to file a petition with the Georgia Tax Tribunal in accordance with Chapter 13A of this title.

(c) This article shall not apply with respect to any matter as to which an aggrieved party is permitted to file a petition with the Georgia Tax Tribunal in accordance with Chapter 13A of this title.
O.C.G.A. § 50-2-20 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 2 / Section 50-2-20
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-2-20
Status: in_force

The sovereignty and jurisdiction of this state extend to all places within the limits of her boundaries except so far as she has voluntarily ceded her sovereignty and jurisdiction over particular localities to the United States or adjacent states.
O.C.G.A. § 50-23-25 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 23 / Section 50-23-25
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-23-25
Status: in_force

As used in this part, the term “ division ” means the Water Supply Division of the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority created by Code Section 50-23-26 .
O.C.G.A. § 50-5a-11 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 5A / Section 50-5a-11
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-5A-11
Status: in_force

(a) The following records, or portions thereof, shall not constitute public records and shall not be open to inspection by the general public: (1) Participant account balances in the local government investment pool; (2) All wiring or Automated Clearing House transfer of funds instructions; (3) Account analysis statements received or prepared by the staff of the Office of the State Treasurer; (4) All bank account numbers in the possession of the Office of the State Treasurer and any record or document containing such numbers; (5) All proprietary computer software in the possession or under the control of the Office of the State Treasurer; and (6) All security codes and procedures related to physical, electronic, or other access to the Office of the State Treasurer, its systems, and its software.

(a) The following records, or portions thereof, shall not constitute public records and shall not be open to inspection by the general public:

(1) Participant account balances in the local government investment pool;

(1) Participant account balances in the local government investment pool;

(2) All wiring or Automated Clearing House transfer of funds instructions;

(2) All wiring or Automated Clearing House transfer of funds instructions;

(3) Account analysis statements received or prepared by the staff of the Office of the State Treasurer;

(3) Account analysis statements received or prepared by the staff of the Office of the State Treasurer;

(4) All bank account numbers in the possession of the Office of the State Treasurer and any record or document containing such numbers;

(4) All bank account numbers in the possession of the Office of the State Treasurer and any record or document containing such numbers;

(5) All proprietary computer software in the possession or under the control of the Office of the State Treasurer; and

(5) All proprietary computer software in the possession or under the control of the Office of the State Treasurer; and

(6) All security codes and procedures related to physical, electronic, or other access to the Office of the State Treasurer, its systems, and its software.

(6) All security codes and procedures related to physical, electronic, or other access to the Office of the State Treasurer, its systems, and its software.

(b) For a period from the opening of bank accounts until such time as those bank accounts are closed, the local government investment pool resolutions which pertain to the opening and maintenance of bank accounts shall not constitute public records and shall not be open to inspection by the general public.

(b) For a period from the opening of bank accounts until such time as those bank accounts are closed, the local government investment pool resolutions which pertain to the opening and maintenance of bank accounts shall not constitute public records and shall not be open to inspection by the general public.

(c) For a period from the date of creation of the record until the end of the calendar quarter in which the record is created, the following records, or portions thereof, shall not constitute public records and shall not be open to inspection by the general public: (1) Investment trade tickets; and (2) Bank statements of the Office of the State Treasurer.

(c) For a period from the date of creation of the record until the end of the calendar quarter in which the record is created, the following records, or portions thereof, shall not constitute public records and shall not be open to inspection by the general public:

(1) Investment trade tickets; and

(1) Investment trade tickets; and

(2) Bank statements of the Office of the State Treasurer.

(2) Bank statements of the Office of the State Treasurer.

(d) For a period from the date of creation of the record until 30 days after adoption, bank fee payment schedules shall not constitute public records and shall not be open to inspection by the general public.

(d) For a period from the date of creation of the record until 30 days after adoption, bank fee payment schedules shall not constitute public records and shall not be open to inspection by the general public.

(e) The restrictions of subsections (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this Code section shall not apply to access: (1) Required by law, including disclosures required by subpoena or other legal process of a court or administrative agency having competent jurisdiction in legal proceedings where the State of Georgia or the Office of the State Treasurer is a party; (2) In prosecutions or other court actions to which the State of Georgia or the Office of the State Treasurer is a party; (3) Given to federal or state regulatory or law enforcement agencies; (4) Given to any person or entity in connection with its account in the local government investment pool managed by the Office of the State Treasurer pursuant to Chapter 83 of Title 36, the “Local Government Investment Pool Act”; or (5) Given to the Governor, the Attorney General and the Department of Law, the Office of Planning and Budget, officers of the General Assembly, the legislative budget offices, the state accounting officer and the State Accounting Office, the state auditor and the Department of Audits and Accounts, or the State Depository Board for use and public disclosure in the ordinary performance of those officers' and offices' duties.

(e) The restrictions of subsections (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this Code section shall not apply to access:

(1) Required by law, including disclosures required by subpoena or other legal process of a court or administrative agency having competent jurisdiction in legal proceedings where the State of Georgia or the Office of the State Treasurer is a party;

(1) Required by law, including disclosures required by subpoena or other legal process of a court or administrative agency having competent jurisdiction in legal proceedings where the State of Georgia or the Office of the State Treasurer is a party;

(2) In prosecutions or other court actions to which the State of Georgia or the Office of the State Treasurer is a party;

(2) In prosecutions or other court actions to which the State of Georgia or the Office of the State Treasurer is a party;

(3) Given to federal or state regulatory or law enforcement agencies;

(3) Given to federal or state regulatory or law enforcement agencies;

(4) Given to any person or entity in connection with its account in the local government investment pool managed by the Office of the State Treasurer pursuant to Chapter 83 of Title 36, the “Local Government Investment Pool Act”; or

(4) Given to any person or entity in connection with its account in the local government investment pool managed by the Office of the State Treasurer pursuant to Chapter 83 of Title 36, the “Local Government Investment Pool Act”; or

(5) Given to the Governor, the Attorney General and the Department of Law, the Office of Planning and Budget, officers of the General Assembly, the legislative budget offices, the state accounting officer and the State Accounting Office, the state auditor and the Department of Audits and Accounts, or the State Depository Board for use and public disclosure in the ordinary performance of those officers' and offices' duties.

(5) Given to the Governor, the Attorney General and the Department of Law, the Office of Planning and Budget, officers of the General Assembly, the legislative budget offices, the state accounting officer and the State Accounting Office, the state auditor and the Department of Audits and Accounts, or the State Depository Board for use and public disclosure in the ordinary performance of those officers' and offices' duties.
O.C.G.A. § 50-8-218 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 8 / Section 50-8-218
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-8-218
Status: in_force

No less developed county shall be eligible to receive a grant pursuant to this article until a local plan has been submitted. The commissioner shall provide by rule or regulation for the submission of local plans and the administration of grant applications and shall establish criteria for the types of facilities which would qualify for a grant under this article; provided, however, that such criteria shall realistically reflect the diverse facility needs of the various less developed counties for economic development. The commissioner shall submit such criteria to the General Assembly at the next regular session following July 1, 1991, and such criteria shall become effective only when ratified by joint resolution of the General Assembly. The power of the commissioner to promulgate such criteria shall be deemed to be dependent upon such ratification.
O.C.G.A. § 50-34-19 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 34 / Section 50-34-19
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-34-19
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “ border region ” means any part of the state that lies within 25 miles of a state border.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “ border region ” means any part of the state that lies within 25 miles of a state border.

(b) Subject to appropriations, the authority shall establish and administer a grant program to be called the Border Region Retail Tourism Development Program, which shall serve the purpose of awarding grants to eligible applicants to induce businesses to, or assist businesses that intend to, relocate, expand, or construct projects in Georgia rather than a bordering state.

(b) Subject to appropriations, the authority shall establish and administer a grant program to be called the Border Region Retail Tourism Development Program, which shall serve the purpose of awarding grants to eligible applicants to induce businesses to, or assist businesses that intend to, relocate, expand, or construct projects in Georgia rather than a bordering state.

(c) The amount of any grant awarded pursuant to this Code section shall be determined by the authority on a case-by-case review of applications consistent with criteria to be prescribed by the authority which shall include, but shall not be limited to, the: (1) Number and type of jobs retained or created; (2) Total private capital investment; (3) Impact on the state, regional, and community tax base; (4) Degree of local commitment; (5) Consistency with local and regional development goals and objectives; (6) Project readiness and feasibility; (7) Geographic distribution of existing retail and tourism facilities; and (8) Reasonableness of cost estimates.

(c) The amount of any grant awarded pursuant to this Code section shall be determined by the authority on a case-by-case review of applications consistent with criteria to be prescribed by the authority which shall include, but shall not be limited to, the:

(1) Number and type of jobs retained or created;

(1) Number and type of jobs retained or created;

(2) Total private capital investment;

(2) Total private capital investment;

(3) Impact on the state, regional, and community tax base;

(3) Impact on the state, regional, and community tax base;

(4) Degree of local commitment;

(4) Degree of local commitment;

(5) Consistency with local and regional development goals and objectives;

(5) Consistency with local and regional development goals and objectives;

(6) Project readiness and feasibility;

(6) Project readiness and feasibility;

(7) Geographic distribution of existing retail and tourism facilities; and

(7) Geographic distribution of existing retail and tourism facilities; and

(8) Reasonableness of cost estimates.

(8) Reasonableness of cost estimates.

(d) All applications for grants under this Code section shall include a recommendation from a state agency whose statutory powers and duties include community and economic development that the proposed project will significantly develop, promote, and retain trade, commerce, industry, and employment opportunities within the border region and promote the general welfare of the state.

(d) All applications for grants under this Code section shall include a recommendation from a state agency whose statutory powers and duties include community and economic development that the proposed project will significantly develop, promote, and retain trade, commerce, industry, and employment opportunities within the border region and promote the general welfare of the state.

(e) After reviewing an application, the authority shall submit any pending grant award to the Governor and the commissioner of economic development for approval before such grant shall be awarded.

(e) After reviewing an application, the authority shall submit any pending grant award to the Governor and the commissioner of economic development for approval before such grant shall be awarded.

(f) The authority shall adopt such rules and regulations as are reasonable and necessary to implement and administer the grant program established under this Code section.

(f) The authority shall adopt such rules and regulations as are reasonable and necessary to implement and administer the grant program established under this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 50-5-60-3 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 5 / Section 50-5-60-3
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-5-60.3
Status: in_force

All state agencies, departments, and authorities shall replace original truck tires of over 16 inch rim size used on nonsteering axles with retreaded tires or subscribe to a retread service as replacement is necessary and as stockpiled tires are depleted; provided, however, that nothing in this Code section shall be construed so as to discourage the use of retreaded tires on other size rims or other types of vehicles if an agency, department, or authority deems such use to be economical, feasible, and desirable.
O.C.G.A. § 50-37-2 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 37 / Section 50-37-2
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-37-2
Status: in_force

Unless otherwise provided , as used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “ Allowable costs ” means equipment and project costs that: (A) The governmental unit reasonably believes will be incurred during the term of the guaranteed energy savings performance contract; and (B) Are documented by industry engineering standards.

(1) “ Allowable costs ” means equipment and project costs that:

(A) The governmental unit reasonably believes will be incurred during the term of the guaranteed energy savings performance contract; and

(A) The governmental unit reasonably believes will be incurred during the term of the guaranteed energy savings performance contract; and

(B) Are documented by industry engineering standards.

(B) Are documented by industry engineering standards.

(2) “ Authority ” means the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority.

(2) “ Authority ” means the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority.

(3) “ Director ” means the executive director of the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority.

(3) “ Director ” means the executive director of the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority.

(4) “ Energy conservation measure ” means a program or facility alteration or technology upgrade designed to reduce energy, water, waste-water, or other consumption or operating costs to allow revenue generation measures. The term may include, without limitation: (A) Insulation of the building structure or systems within the building; (B) Storm windows or doors, caulking or weather stripping, multiglazed windows or doors, heat absorbing or heat reflective glazed and coated window or door systems, additional glazing, reductions in glass area, or other window and door system modifications that reduce energy consumption; (C) Automated or computerized energy control systems; (D) Heating, ventilating, or air-conditioning system modifications or replacements; (E) Replacement or modification of lighting fixtures to increase the energy efficiency of the lighting system without increasing the overall illumination of a facility, unless an increase in illumination is necessary to conform to applicable state or local building codes for the lighting system after the proposed modifications are made; (F) Energy recovery ventilation systems; (G) A training program or facility alteration that reduces energy consumption or reduces operating costs, including allowable costs, based on future reductions in costs for contracted services; (H) A facility alteration which includes expenditures that are required to properly implement other energy conservation measures; (I) A program to reduce energy costs through rate adjustments, load shifting to reduce peak demand, or use of alternative suppliers as otherwise provided by law, such as, but not limited to: (i) Changes to more favorable rate schedules; (ii) Negotiation of lower rates, where applicable; and (iii) Auditing of energy service billing and meters; (J) The installation of energy information and control systems that monitor consumption, redirect systems to optimal energy sources, and manage energy using equipment; (K) Indoor air quality improvements; (L) Daylighting systems; (M) Renewable generation systems owned by the governmental unit, such as solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, wind, and other technologies as identified in the project, provided that all metered distribution and deliveries of electric energy are made by an electric supplier authorized under Part 1 of Article 1 of Chapter 3 of Title 46, the “Georgia Territorial Electric Service Act”; (N) Geothermal HVAC systems; (O) Water and sewer conservation measures, including, without limitation, plumbing fixtures and infrastructure; (P) Equipment upgrades that improve accuracy of billable revenue generating systems; and (Q) Automated, electronic, or remotely controlled systems or measures that reduce direct and other operating costs.

(4) “ Energy conservation measure ” means a program or facility alteration or technology upgrade designed to reduce energy, water, waste-water, or other consumption or operating costs to allow revenue generation measures. The term may include, without limitation:

(A) Insulation of the building structure or systems within the building;

(A) Insulation of the building structure or systems within the building;

(B) Storm windows or doors, caulking or weather stripping, multiglazed windows or doors, heat absorbing or heat reflective glazed and coated window or door systems, additional glazing, reductions in glass area, or other window and door system modifications that reduce energy consumption;

(B) Storm windows or doors, caulking or weather stripping, multiglazed windows or doors, heat absorbing or heat reflective glazed and coated window or door systems, additional glazing, reductions in glass area, or other window and door system modifications that reduce energy consumption;

(C) Automated or computerized energy control systems;

(C) Automated or computerized energy control systems;

(D) Heating, ventilating, or air-conditioning system modifications or replacements;

(D) Heating, ventilating, or air-conditioning system modifications or replacements;

(E) Replacement or modification of lighting fixtures to increase the energy efficiency of the lighting system without increasing the overall illumination of a facility, unless an increase in illumination is necessary to conform to applicable state or local building codes for the lighting system after the proposed modifications are made;

(E) Replacement or modification of lighting fixtures to increase the energy efficiency of the lighting system without increasing the overall illumination of a facility, unless an increase in illumination is necessary to conform to applicable state or local building codes for the lighting system after the proposed modifications are made;

(F) Energy recovery ventilation systems;

(F) Energy recovery ventilation systems;

(G) A training program or facility alteration that reduces energy consumption or reduces operating costs, including allowable costs, based on future reductions in costs for contracted services;

(G) A training program or facility alteration that reduces energy consumption or reduces operating costs, including allowable costs, based on future reductions in costs for contracted services;

(H) A facility alteration which includes expenditures that are required to properly implement other energy conservation measures;

(H) A facility alteration which includes expenditures that are required to properly implement other energy conservation measures;

(I) A program to reduce energy costs through rate adjustments, load shifting to reduce peak demand, or use of alternative suppliers as otherwise provided by law, such as, but not limited to: (i) Changes to more favorable rate schedules; (ii) Negotiation of lower rates, where applicable; and (iii) Auditing of energy service billing and meters;

(I) A program to reduce energy costs through rate adjustments, load shifting to reduce peak demand, or use of alternative suppliers as otherwise provided by law, such as, but not limited to:

(i) Changes to more favorable rate schedules;

(i) Changes to more favorable rate schedules;

(ii) Negotiation of lower rates, where applicable; and

(ii) Negotiation of lower rates, where applicable; and

(iii) Auditing of energy service billing and meters;

(iii) Auditing of energy service billing and meters;

(J) The installation of energy information and control systems that monitor consumption, redirect systems to optimal energy sources, and manage energy using equipment;

(J) The installation of energy information and control systems that monitor consumption, redirect systems to optimal energy sources, and manage energy using equipment;

(K) Indoor air quality improvements;

(K) Indoor air quality improvements;

(L) Daylighting systems;

(L) Daylighting systems;

(M) Renewable generation systems owned by the governmental unit, such as solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, wind, and other technologies as identified in the project, provided that all metered distribution and deliveries of electric energy are made by an electric supplier authorized under Part 1 of Article 1 of Chapter 3 of Title 46, the “Georgia Territorial Electric Service Act”;

(M) Renewable generation systems owned by the governmental unit, such as solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, wind, and other technologies as identified in the project, provided that all metered distribution and deliveries of electric energy are made by an electric supplier authorized under Part 1 of Article 1 of Chapter 3 of Title 46, the “Georgia Territorial Electric Service Act”;

(N) Geothermal HVAC systems;

(N) Geothermal HVAC systems;

(O) Water and sewer conservation measures, including, without limitation, plumbing fixtures and infrastructure;

(O) Water and sewer conservation measures, including, without limitation, plumbing fixtures and infrastructure;

(P) Equipment upgrades that improve accuracy of billable revenue generating systems; and

(P) Equipment upgrades that improve accuracy of billable revenue generating systems; and

(Q) Automated, electronic, or remotely controlled systems or measures that reduce direct and other operating costs.

(Q) Automated, electronic, or remotely controlled systems or measures that reduce direct and other operating costs.

(5) “ Guaranteed energy savings performance contract ” means a contract between the governmental unit and a qualified energy service provider for evaluation, recommendation, and implementation of one or more energy conservation measures which shall include, at a minimum, the design and installation of equipment and, if applicable, operation and maintenance of any of the measures implemented, and guaranteed annual savings which must meet or exceed the total annual contract payments made by the governmental unit for such contract, including financing charges to be incurred by the governmental unit over the life of the contract.

(5) “ Guaranteed energy savings performance contract ” means a contract between the governmental unit and a qualified energy service provider for evaluation, recommendation, and implementation of one or more energy conservation measures which shall include, at a minimum, the design and installation of equipment and, if applicable, operation and maintenance of any of the measures implemented, and guaranteed annual savings which must meet or exceed the total annual contract payments made by the governmental unit for such contract, including financing charges to be incurred by the governmental unit over the life of the contract.

(6) “ Governmental unit ” means any authority, board, bureau, commission, department, agency, or institution of state or local government, including, but not limited to, any state-aided institution, or any county, municipal corporation, or consolidated government which has the authority to contract for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, or repair of any public building or other public work.

(6) “ Governmental unit ” means any authority, board, bureau, commission, department, agency, or institution of state or local government, including, but not limited to, any state-aided institution, or any county, municipal corporation, or consolidated government which has the authority to contract for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, or repair of any public building or other public work.

(7) “ Industry engineering standards ” means: (A) Life cycle costing; (B) The R.S. Means-estimated costing method developed by the R.S. Means Company; (C) Historical data; (D) Manufacturer's data; (E) American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards; (F) International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol; and (G) Other applicable technical performance standards established by nationally recognized standards authorities.

(7) “ Industry engineering standards ” means:

(A) Life cycle costing;

(A) Life cycle costing;

(B) The R.S. Means-estimated costing method developed by the R.S. Means Company;

(B) The R.S. Means-estimated costing method developed by the R.S. Means Company;

(C) Historical data;

(C) Historical data;

(D) Manufacturer's data;

(D) Manufacturer's data;

(E) American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards;

(E) American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards;

(F) International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol; and

(F) International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol; and

(G) Other applicable technical performance standards established by nationally recognized standards authorities.

(G) Other applicable technical performance standards established by nationally recognized standards authorities.

(8) “ Investment grade energy audit ” means a study by the qualified energy services provider selected for a particular guaranteed energy savings performance contract project which includes detailed descriptions of the improvements recommended for the project, the estimated costs of the improvements, and the utility and operation and maintenance cost savings projected to result from the recommended improvements. The investment grade energy audit shall also include a detailed economic analysis of the project's performance over the life of the contract term.

(8) “ Investment grade energy audit ” means a study by the qualified energy services provider selected for a particular guaranteed energy savings performance contract project which includes detailed descriptions of the improvements recommended for the project, the estimated costs of the improvements, and the utility and operation and maintenance cost savings projected to result from the recommended improvements. The investment grade energy audit shall also include a detailed economic analysis of the project's performance over the life of the contract term.

(9) “ Operational cost savings ” means a measurable decrease in operation and maintenance costs that is a direct result of the implementation of one or more energy conservation measures. Such savings shall be calculated in comparison with an established baseline of operation and maintenance costs.

(9) “ Operational cost savings ” means a measurable decrease in operation and maintenance costs that is a direct result of the implementation of one or more energy conservation measures. Such savings shall be calculated in comparison with an established baseline of operation and maintenance costs.

(10) “ Qualified energy services provider ” means a person or business with a record of documented guaranteed energy savings performance contract projects that is experienced in the design, implementation, and installation of energy conservation measures; has the technical capabilities to verify that such measures generate guaranteed energy and operational cost savings or enhanced revenues; has the ability to secure or arrange the financing necessary to support energy savings guarantees; and is approved by the authority for inclusion on the prequalifications list.

(10) “ Qualified energy services provider ” means a person or business with a record of documented guaranteed energy savings performance contract projects that is experienced in the design, implementation, and installation of energy conservation measures; has the technical capabilities to verify that such measures generate guaranteed energy and operational cost savings or enhanced revenues; has the ability to secure or arrange the financing necessary to support energy savings guarantees; and is approved by the authority for inclusion on the prequalifications list.

(11) “ State agency ” means every state agency, authority, board, bureau, commission, and department, including, without limitation, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.

(11) “ State agency ” means every state agency, authority, board, bureau, commission, and department, including, without limitation, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia.
O.C.G.A. § 50-20-6 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 20 / Section 50-20-6
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-20-6
Status: in_force

(a) A nonprofit organization which receives state awards from a state organization and which, after having received the funds, does not comply with this chapter shall be required to repay the funds to the state organization and shall be prohibited from receiving funds from any state organization for a period of 12 months from the date of notification by the state organizations or the state auditor of the failure to comply.

(a) A nonprofit organization which receives state awards from a state organization and which, after having received the funds, does not comply with this chapter shall be required to repay the funds to the state organization and shall be prohibited from receiving funds from any state organization for a period of 12 months from the date of notification by the state organizations or the state auditor of the failure to comply.

(b) This Code section shall be cumulative to any other penalties applicable to the misuse of public funds.

(b) This Code section shall be cumulative to any other penalties applicable to the misuse of public funds.
O.C.G.A. § 50-27-89 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 27 / Section 50-27-89
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-27-89
Status: in_force

(a) There shall be a Bona Fide Coin Operated Amusement Machine Operator Advisory Board to be composed of ten members. The chief executive officer of the corporation shall serve as a member. Two members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, two members by the Lieutenant Governor, and five members by the Governor; at least one appointee shall be a licensed location owner or location operator. At least seven members shall be Georgia operators with current master licenses representing the broadest possible spectrum of business characteristics of bona fide coin operated amusement machine operators.

(a) There shall be a Bona Fide Coin Operated Amusement Machine Operator Advisory Board to be composed of ten members. The chief executive officer of the corporation shall serve as a member. Two members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, two members by the Lieutenant Governor, and five members by the Governor; at least one appointee shall be a licensed location owner or location operator. At least seven members shall be Georgia operators with current master licenses representing the broadest possible spectrum of business characteristics of bona fide coin operated amusement machine operators.

(b) Members appointed to the advisory board shall serve terms of four years. Upon the expiration of a member's term of office, a new member appointed in the same manner as the member whose term of office expired as provided in subsection (a) of this Code section shall become a member of the advisory board and shall serve for a term of four years and until such member's successor is duly appointed and qualified. If a vacancy occurs in the membership of the advisory board, a new member shall be appointed for the unexpired term of office by the official who appointed the vacating member. Members may be reappointed to additional terms.

(b) Members appointed to the advisory board shall serve terms of four years. Upon the expiration of a member's term of office, a new member appointed in the same manner as the member whose term of office expired as provided in subsection (a) of this Code section shall become a member of the advisory board and shall serve for a term of four years and until such member's successor is duly appointed and qualified. If a vacancy occurs in the membership of the advisory board, a new member shall be appointed for the unexpired term of office by the official who appointed the vacating member. Members may be reappointed to additional terms.

(c) The advisory board shall establish its own policies and internal operating procedures. Members of the advisory board shall serve without compensation or reimbursement of expenses. The advisory board may report to the corporation in writing at any time. The corporation may invite the advisory board to make an oral presentation to the corporation.

(c) The advisory board shall establish its own policies and internal operating procedures. Members of the advisory board shall serve without compensation or reimbursement of expenses. The advisory board may report to the corporation in writing at any time. The corporation may invite the advisory board to make an oral presentation to the corporation.

(d) The advisory board shall have the exclusive authority to initiate a process to determine a variety of cost-effective, efficacious, and fiscally responsible approaches for consideration by the corporation of a Class B accounting terminal authorized by Code Section 50-27-101 ; provided, however, that the board shall comply with the deadline contained in subsection (a) of Code Section 50-27-101 for procuring the centralized accounting terminal and communications network. The advisory board shall be further authorized to contract with the Department of Administrative Services to develop a request for proposal to receive bids to provide the Class B accounting terminal and shall submit a minimum of three recommended proposals to the corporation unless only two vendors respond. The corporation shall select one of the recommended proposals to serve as the Class B accounting terminal vendor.

(d) The advisory board shall have the exclusive authority to initiate a process to determine a variety of cost-effective, efficacious, and fiscally responsible approaches for consideration by the corporation of a Class B accounting terminal authorized by Code Section 50-27-101 ; provided, however, that the board shall comply with the deadline contained in subsection (a) of Code Section 50-27-101 for procuring the centralized accounting terminal and communications network. The advisory board shall be further authorized to contract with the Department of Administrative Services to develop a request for proposal to receive bids to provide the Class B accounting terminal and shall submit a minimum of three recommended proposals to the corporation unless only two vendors respond. The corporation shall select one of the recommended proposals to serve as the Class B accounting terminal vendor.

(e) No advisory board member, corporation member, or immediate family of either may own a substantial interest in or be an employee, independent contractor, agent, or officer of any vendor recommended to or selected by the corporation. For the purposes of this Code section, “ substantial interest ” means the direct or indirect ownership of any privately held assets or stock or over $5,000.00 in publicly traded stock.

(e) No advisory board member, corporation member, or immediate family of either may own a substantial interest in or be an employee, independent contractor, agent, or officer of any vendor recommended to or selected by the corporation. For the purposes of this Code section, “ substantial interest ” means the direct or indirect ownership of any privately held assets or stock or over $5,000.00 in publicly traded stock.
O.C.G.A. § 50-16-36 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 16 / Section 50-16-36
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-16-36
Status: in_force

The commission shall cause all of its records including, but not limited to, minutes or transcripts, reports, studies, forms of instruments, bidding papers, notices, advertisements, invitation for bids, bids, executed instruments, and correspondence to be kept and maintained permanently. Such records shall be open to public inspection and may be inspected by any citizen of the state during usual business hours unless the same are being used by the commission or by its employees in the performance of its or their duties in reference thereto.
O.C.G.A. § 50-3-84 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 3 / Section 50-3-84
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-3-84
Status: in_force

(a) The City of Colquitt is designated as Georgia's First Mural City.

(a) The City of Colquitt is designated as Georgia's First Mural City.

(b) The Department of Economic Development and other public agencies and leaders in the tourism industry are encouraged to work together to maximize advertising programs which permit citizens of other states and nations to learn of Georgia's First Mural City and to visit the State of Georgia for tourism purposes.

(b) The Department of Economic Development and other public agencies and leaders in the tourism industry are encouraged to work together to maximize advertising programs which permit citizens of other states and nations to learn of Georgia's First Mural City and to visit the State of Georgia for tourism purposes.
O.C.G.A. § 50-5-84-2 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 5 / Section 50-5-84-2
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-5-84.2
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Company ” means any sole proprietorship, organization, association, corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, limited liability company, or other entity or business association, including all wholly owned subsidiaries, majority owned subsidiaries, parent companies, or affiliates of such entities or business associations, that exists for the purpose of making profit. (2) “ Government of China ” means the People's Republic of China led by the Chinese Communist Party. (3) “ Scrutinized company ” means any company owned or operated by the government of China.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “ Company ” means any sole proprietorship, organization, association, corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, limited liability company, or other entity or business association, including all wholly owned subsidiaries, majority owned subsidiaries, parent companies, or affiliates of such entities or business associations, that exists for the purpose of making profit.

(1) “ Company ” means any sole proprietorship, organization, association, corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited partnership, limited liability partnership, limited liability company, or other entity or business association, including all wholly owned subsidiaries, majority owned subsidiaries, parent companies, or affiliates of such entities or business associations, that exists for the purpose of making profit.

(2) “ Government of China ” means the People's Republic of China led by the Chinese Communist Party.

(2) “ Government of China ” means the People's Republic of China led by the Chinese Communist Party.

(3) “ Scrutinized company ” means any company owned or operated by the government of China.

(3) “ Scrutinized company ” means any company owned or operated by the government of China.

(b) A scrutinized company shall be ineligible to, and shall not, bid on or submit a proposal for a contract with a state agency for goods or services.

(b) A scrutinized company shall be ineligible to, and shall not, bid on or submit a proposal for a contract with a state agency for goods or services.

(c) A state agency shall require a company that submits a bid or proposal with respect to a contract for goods or services to certify that the company is not a scrutinized company.

(c) A state agency shall require a company that submits a bid or proposal with respect to a contract for goods or services to certify that the company is not a scrutinized company.

(d) If the Department of Administrative Services determines that a company has submitted a false certification under subsection (c) of this Code section: (1) The company shall be liable for a civil penalty in an amount that is equal to the greater of $250,000.00 or twice the amount of the contract for which a bid or proposal was submitted; (2) The state agency or the Department of Administrative Services shall terminate the contract with the company; and (3) The company shall be ineligible to, and shall not, bid on a state contract.

(d) If the Department of Administrative Services determines that a company has submitted a false certification under subsection (c) of this Code section:

(1) The company shall be liable for a civil penalty in an amount that is equal to the greater of $250,000.00 or twice the amount of the contract for which a bid or proposal was submitted;

(1) The company shall be liable for a civil penalty in an amount that is equal to the greater of $250,000.00 or twice the amount of the contract for which a bid or proposal was submitted;

(2) The state agency or the Department of Administrative Services shall terminate the contract with the company; and

(2) The state agency or the Department of Administrative Services shall terminate the contract with the company; and

(3) The company shall be ineligible to, and shall not, bid on a state contract.

(3) The company shall be ineligible to, and shall not, bid on a state contract.
O.C.G.A. § 50-25-1 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 25 / Section 50-25-1
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-25-1
Status: in_force

(a) There is established the Georgia Technology Authority as a body corporate and politic, an instrumentality of the state, and a public corporation; and by that name the authority may contract and be contracted with and bring and defend actions. The Georgia Technology Authority shall be the successor in interest to the public corporation created by Ga. L. 1990, p. 1566, as amended from time to time thereafter, and known as the “GeorgiaNet Authority,” and all rights, powers, and duties of that public corporation shall be vested in the Georgia Technology Authority, subject, however, to all debts, obligations, liabilities, and duties incurred by that public corporation.

(a) There is established the Georgia Technology Authority as a body corporate and politic, an instrumentality of the state, and a public corporation; and by that name the authority may contract and be contracted with and bring and defend actions. The Georgia Technology Authority shall be the successor in interest to the public corporation created by Ga. L. 1990, p. 1566, as amended from time to time thereafter, and known as the “GeorgiaNet Authority,” and all rights, powers, and duties of that public corporation shall be vested in the Georgia Technology Authority, subject, however, to all debts, obligations, liabilities, and duties incurred by that public corporation.

(b) As used in this chapter, the term: (1) “ Agency ” means every state department, agency, board, bureau, commission, and authority but shall not include any agency within the judicial or legislative branch of state government, the Georgia Department of Defense, departments headed by elected constitutional officers of the state, or the University System of Georgia and shall also not include any authority statutorily required to effectuate the provisions of Part 4 of Article 9 of Title 11. (2) “Authority” means the Georgia Technology Authority as established in this chapter. (3) “Board” means the board of directors for the Georgia Technology Authority. (4) “Chairperson” means the chairperson of the Georgia Technology Authority. (5) “Chief information officer” means the chief information officer of the State of Georgia provided for by Code Section 50-25-5.1 . (6) “File” means a group of data consisting of a collection of related records which concern one or more functions of an agency and which is treated as a single unit in an electronic data processing system. (7) “GeorgiaNet Division” means the former GeorgiaNet Authority. (8) “Local government” means any county, city, or consolidated government in this state. (9) “Private sector” means any nongovernment, privately owned entity in this state. (10) “Public safety radio services” means all radio services of state, county, or municipal governments, as defined in Part 89 of the Rules and Regulations of the Federal Communications Commission. (11) “Record” means a group of related fields of data used to electronically store data about a subject, such as an employee, customer, vendor, or other entity, or a transaction. (12) “Technology” or “technology resources” means hardware, software, and communications equipment, including, but not limited to, personal computers, mainframes, wide and local area networks, servers, mobile or portable computers, peripheral equipment, telephones, wireless communications, public safety radio services, facsimile machines, technology facilities including, but not limited to, data centers, dedicated training facilities, and switching facilities, and other relevant hardware and software items as well as personnel tasked with the planning, implementation, and support of technology. (13) “Technology enterprise management” means methods for managing technology resources for all agencies, considering the priorities of state planners, with an emphasis on making communications and sharing of data among agencies feasible and ensuring opportunities of greater access to state services by the public. (14) “Technology policy” means processes, methods, and procedures for managing technology, technology resources, and technology procurement. (15) “Technology portfolio management” means an approach for analyzing and ranking potential technology investments based upon state priorities and a cost benefit analysis to include, but not be limited to, calculated savings, direct and indirect, and revenue generation related to technology expenditures and selecting the most cost-effective investments. The minimization of total ownership costs, i.e., purchase, operation, maintenance, and disposal, of technology resources from acquisition through retirement while maximizing benefits is to be emphasized.

(b) As used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “ Agency ” means every state department, agency, board, bureau, commission, and authority but shall not include any agency within the judicial or legislative branch of state government, the Georgia Department of Defense, departments headed by elected constitutional officers of the state, or the University System of Georgia and shall also not include any authority statutorily required to effectuate the provisions of Part 4 of Article 9 of Title 11.

(1) “ Agency ” means every state department, agency, board, bureau, commission, and authority but shall not include any agency within the judicial or legislative branch of state government, the Georgia Department of Defense, departments headed by elected constitutional officers of the state, or the University System of Georgia and shall also not include any authority statutorily required to effectuate the provisions of Part 4 of Article 9 of Title 11.

(2) “Authority” means the Georgia Technology Authority as established in this chapter.

(2) “Authority” means the Georgia Technology Authority as established in this chapter.

(3) “Board” means the board of directors for the Georgia Technology Authority.

(3) “Board” means the board of directors for the Georgia Technology Authority.

(4) “Chairperson” means the chairperson of the Georgia Technology Authority.

(4) “Chairperson” means the chairperson of the Georgia Technology Authority.

(5) “Chief information officer” means the chief information officer of the State of Georgia provided for by Code Section 50-25-5.1 .

(5) “Chief information officer” means the chief information officer of the State of Georgia provided for by Code Section 50-25-5.1 .

(6) “File” means a group of data consisting of a collection of related records which concern one or more functions of an agency and which is treated as a single unit in an electronic data processing system.

(6) “File” means a group of data consisting of a collection of related records which concern one or more functions of an agency and which is treated as a single unit in an electronic data processing system.

(7) “GeorgiaNet Division” means the former GeorgiaNet Authority.

(7) “GeorgiaNet Division” means the former GeorgiaNet Authority.

(8) “Local government” means any county, city, or consolidated government in this state.

(8) “Local government” means any county, city, or consolidated government in this state.

(9) “Private sector” means any nongovernment, privately owned entity in this state.

(9) “Private sector” means any nongovernment, privately owned entity in this state.

(10) “Public safety radio services” means all radio services of state, county, or municipal governments, as defined in Part 89 of the Rules and Regulations of the Federal Communications Commission.

(10) “Public safety radio services” means all radio services of state, county, or municipal governments, as defined in Part 89 of the Rules and Regulations of the Federal Communications Commission.

(11) “Record” means a group of related fields of data used to electronically store data about a subject, such as an employee, customer, vendor, or other entity, or a transaction.

(11) “Record” means a group of related fields of data used to electronically store data about a subject, such as an employee, customer, vendor, or other entity, or a transaction.

(12) “Technology” or “technology resources” means hardware, software, and communications equipment, including, but not limited to, personal computers, mainframes, wide and local area networks, servers, mobile or portable computers, peripheral equipment, telephones, wireless communications, public safety radio services, facsimile machines, technology facilities including, but not limited to, data centers, dedicated training facilities, and switching facilities, and other relevant hardware and software items as well as personnel tasked with the planning, implementation, and support of technology.

(12) “Technology” or “technology resources” means hardware, software, and communications equipment, including, but not limited to, personal computers, mainframes, wide and local area networks, servers, mobile or portable computers, peripheral equipment, telephones, wireless communications, public safety radio services, facsimile machines, technology facilities including, but not limited to, data centers, dedicated training facilities, and switching facilities, and other relevant hardware and software items as well as personnel tasked with the planning, implementation, and support of technology.

(13) “Technology enterprise management” means methods for managing technology resources for all agencies, considering the priorities of state planners, with an emphasis on making communications and sharing of data among agencies feasible and ensuring opportunities of greater access to state services by the public.

(13) “Technology enterprise management” means methods for managing technology resources for all agencies, considering the priorities of state planners, with an emphasis on making communications and sharing of data among agencies feasible and ensuring opportunities of greater access to state services by the public.

(14) “Technology policy” means processes, methods, and procedures for managing technology, technology resources, and technology procurement.

(14) “Technology policy” means processes, methods, and procedures for managing technology, technology resources, and technology procurement.

(15) “Technology portfolio management” means an approach for analyzing and ranking potential technology investments based upon state priorities and a cost benefit analysis to include, but not be limited to, calculated savings, direct and indirect, and revenue generation related to technology expenditures and selecting the most cost-effective investments. The minimization of total ownership costs, i.e., purchase, operation, maintenance, and disposal, of technology resources from acquisition through retirement while maximizing benefits is to be emphasized.

(15) “Technology portfolio management” means an approach for analyzing and ranking potential technology investments based upon state priorities and a cost benefit analysis to include, but not be limited to, calculated savings, direct and indirect, and revenue generation related to technology expenditures and selecting the most cost-effective investments. The minimization of total ownership costs, i.e., purchase, operation, maintenance, and disposal, of technology resources from acquisition through retirement while maximizing benefits is to be emphasized.

(c) The purpose of the authority shall be to provide for technology enterprise management and technology portfolio management as defined in this chapter, as well as the centralized marketing, provision, sale, and leasing, or execution of license agreements for access online or in volume, of certain public information maintained in electronic format to the public, on such terms and conditions as may be determined to be in the best interest of the state in light of the following factors: (1) The public interest in providing ready access to public state information for individuals, businesses, and other entities; (2) The public interest in providing ready access to state information for other governmental entities, so as to enhance the ability of such other governmental entities to carry out their public purposes; (3) Fair and adequate compensation to the state for costs incurred in generating, maintaining, and providing access to state information; (4) Cost savings to the state through efficiency in the provision of public information; and (5) Such other factors as are in the public interest of the state and will promote the public health and welfare.

(c) The purpose of the authority shall be to provide for technology enterprise management and technology portfolio management as defined in this chapter, as well as the centralized marketing, provision, sale, and leasing, or execution of license agreements for access online or in volume, of certain public information maintained in electronic format to the public, on such terms and conditions as may be determined to be in the best interest of the state in light of the following factors:

(1) The public interest in providing ready access to public state information for individuals, businesses, and other entities;

(1) The public interest in providing ready access to public state information for individuals, businesses, and other entities;

(2) The public interest in providing ready access to state information for other governmental entities, so as to enhance the ability of such other governmental entities to carry out their public purposes;

(2) The public interest in providing ready access to state information for other governmental entities, so as to enhance the ability of such other governmental entities to carry out their public purposes;

(3) Fair and adequate compensation to the state for costs incurred in generating, maintaining, and providing access to state information;

(3) Fair and adequate compensation to the state for costs incurred in generating, maintaining, and providing access to state information;

(4) Cost savings to the state through efficiency in the provision of public information; and

(4) Cost savings to the state through efficiency in the provision of public information; and

(5) Such other factors as are in the public interest of the state and will promote the public health and welfare.

(5) Such other factors as are in the public interest of the state and will promote the public health and welfare.

(d) The authority shall assist political subdivisions and other entities created by the Constitution or laws of this state, or by local governments, by setting forth policy initiatives for guidance in the use of technology to improve services, reduce costs, encourage technological compatibility, and promote economic development throughout the state.

(d) The authority shall assist political subdivisions and other entities created by the Constitution or laws of this state, or by local governments, by setting forth policy initiatives for guidance in the use of technology to improve services, reduce costs, encourage technological compatibility, and promote economic development throughout the state.

(e) Services related to the marketing, provision, sale, and leasing or licensing of public information as provided in subsection (c) of this Code section shall continue to be marketed under the service mark of GeorgiaNet.

(e) Services related to the marketing, provision, sale, and leasing or licensing of public information as provided in subsection (c) of this Code section shall continue to be marketed under the service mark of GeorgiaNet.
O.C.G.A. § 50-27-78 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 27 / Section 50-27-78
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-27-78
Status: in_force

(a) Every owner, except an owner holding a coin operated amusement machine solely for personal use or resale, who offers others the opportunity to play for a charge, whether direct or indirect, any bona fide coin operated amusement machine shall pay an annual permit fee for each bona fide coin operated amusement machine in the amount of $25.00 for each Class A machine and $125.00 for each Class B machine. The fee shall be paid to the corporation by company check, cash, cashier's check, money order, or any other method approved by the chief executive officer. Upon payment, the corporation shall issue a sticker for each bona fide coin operated amusement machine. The board may establish procedures for annual collection and set due dates for the fee payments. No refund or credit of the annual fee levied by this article shall be allowed to any owner who ceases the exhibition or display of any bona fide coin operated amusement machine prior to the end of any license or permit period.

(a) Every owner, except an owner holding a coin operated amusement machine solely for personal use or resale, who offers others the opportunity to play for a charge, whether direct or indirect, any bona fide coin operated amusement machine shall pay an annual permit fee for each bona fide coin operated amusement machine in the amount of $25.00 for each Class A machine and $125.00 for each Class B machine. The fee shall be paid to the corporation by company check, cash, cashier's check, money order, or any other method approved by the chief executive officer. Upon payment, the corporation shall issue a sticker for each bona fide coin operated amusement machine. The board may establish procedures for annual collection and set due dates for the fee payments. No refund or credit of the annual fee levied by this article shall be allowed to any owner who ceases the exhibition or display of any bona fide coin operated amusement machine prior to the end of any license or permit period.

(b) The sticker issued by the corporation to evidence the payment of the fee under this Code section shall be securely attached to the machine. Owners may transfer stickers from one machine to another in the same class and from location to location so long as all machines in commercial use available for play by the public have a sticker of the correct class and the owner uses the stickers only for machines that it owns.

(b) The sticker issued by the corporation to evidence the payment of the fee under this Code section shall be securely attached to the machine. Owners may transfer stickers from one machine to another in the same class and from location to location so long as all machines in commercial use available for play by the public have a sticker of the correct class and the owner uses the stickers only for machines that it owns.

(c) Each permit sticker shall not list the name of the owner but shall have a control number which corresponds with the control number issued on the master license certificate to allow for effective monitoring of the licensing and permit system. Permit stickers are only required for bona fide coin operated amusement machines in commercial use available to the public for play at a location.

(c) Each permit sticker shall not list the name of the owner but shall have a control number which corresponds with the control number issued on the master license certificate to allow for effective monitoring of the licensing and permit system. Permit stickers are only required for bona fide coin operated amusement machines in commercial use available to the public for play at a location.

(d) The corporation may provide a duplicate permit sticker if a valid permit sticker has been lost, stolen, or destroyed. The fee for a duplicate permit sticker shall be $25.00 for each Class A machine and $125.00 for each Class B machine. If a permit sticker is lost, stolen, or destroyed, a sworn, written statement must be submitted explaining the circumstances by which the permit sticker was lost, stolen, or destroyed and including the number of the lost, stolen, or destroyed permit before a replacement permit can be issued. A permit for which a duplicate permit sticker has been issued is void.

(d) The corporation may provide a duplicate permit sticker if a valid permit sticker has been lost, stolen, or destroyed. The fee for a duplicate permit sticker shall be $25.00 for each Class A machine and $125.00 for each Class B machine. If a permit sticker is lost, stolen, or destroyed, a sworn, written statement must be submitted explaining the circumstances by which the permit sticker was lost, stolen, or destroyed and including the number of the lost, stolen, or destroyed permit before a replacement permit can be issued. A permit for which a duplicate permit sticker has been issued is void.

(e) Each permit sticker issued for a bona fide coin operated amusement machine which rewards a winning player exclusively with free replays, noncash redemption merchandise, prizes, toys, gift certificates, or novelties; or points, tokens, tickets, cards, or other evidence of winnings that may be exchanged for free replays or noncash redemption merchandise, prizes, toys, gift certificates, or novelties, in accordance with the provisions of subsections (b) through (d) of Code Section 16-12-35 shall include the following: “GEORGIA LAW PROHIBITS THE PAYMENT OR RECEIPT OF ANY MONEY FOR REPLAYS OR MERCHANDISE AWARDED FOR PLAYING THIS MACHINE. O.C.G.A. SECTION 16-12-35 .”

(e) Each permit sticker issued for a bona fide coin operated amusement machine which rewards a winning player exclusively with free replays, noncash redemption merchandise, prizes, toys, gift certificates, or novelties; or points, tokens, tickets, cards, or other evidence of winnings that may be exchanged for free replays or noncash redemption merchandise, prizes, toys, gift certificates, or novelties, in accordance with the provisions of subsections (b) through (d) of Code Section 16-12-35 shall include the following: “GEORGIA LAW PROHIBITS THE PAYMENT OR RECEIPT OF ANY MONEY FOR REPLAYS OR MERCHANDISE AWARDED FOR PLAYING THIS MACHINE. O.C.G.A. SECTION 16-12-35 .”

(f) The corporation shall not assess any fees that are not explicitly authorized under this article on a manufacturer, distributor, operator, location owner, or location operator.

(f) The corporation shall not assess any fees that are not explicitly authorized under this article on a manufacturer, distributor, operator, location owner, or location operator.

(g) All fees assessed by the corporation pursuant to this article shall be considered proceeds derived from a lottery operated on or on behalf of the state and shall not be remitted to the general fund pursuant to Article I, Section II, Paragraph VIII(c) of the Constitution.

(g) All fees assessed by the corporation pursuant to this article shall be considered proceeds derived from a lottery operated on or on behalf of the state and shall not be remitted to the general fund pursuant to Article I, Section II, Paragraph VIII(c) of the Constitution.

(h) It shall be unlawful to remove or deface a sticker which is attached to a machine without authorization by the owner of the machine or the corporation. A violation of this subsection shall be a misdemeanor.

(h) It shall be unlawful to remove or deface a sticker which is attached to a machine without authorization by the owner of the machine or the corporation. A violation of this subsection shall be a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 50-26-9 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 26 / Section 50-26-9
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-26-9
Status: in_force

(a) The authority may issue bonds for the purpose of facilitating economic development; for the improvement of public health, safety, and welfare; and for other public purposes through the provision of financing and financial assistance for projects, including, without limitation, health care services, either directly or indirectly through a financial institution; a lender; the state; any institution, department, agency, fund, or authority of the state or created under any state law; any political subdivision of the state; or any other public agency, public or private business, enterprise, agency, corporation, authority, or any other entity.

(a) The authority may issue bonds for the purpose of facilitating economic development; for the improvement of public health, safety, and welfare; and for other public purposes through the provision of financing and financial assistance for projects, including, without limitation, health care services, either directly or indirectly through a financial institution; a lender; the state; any institution, department, agency, fund, or authority of the state or created under any state law; any political subdivision of the state; or any other public agency, public or private business, enterprise, agency, corporation, authority, or any other entity.

(b) The authority shall have the power to borrow money and to issue bonds, regardless of whether the interest payable by the authority incident to such loans or bonds or income derived by the holders of the evidence of such indebtedness or bonds is, for purposes of federal taxation, includable in the taxable income of the recipients of such payments or is otherwise not exempt from the imposition of such taxation on the recipient.

(b) The authority shall have the power to borrow money and to issue bonds, regardless of whether the interest payable by the authority incident to such loans or bonds or income derived by the holders of the evidence of such indebtedness or bonds is, for purposes of federal taxation, includable in the taxable income of the recipients of such payments or is otherwise not exempt from the imposition of such taxation on the recipient.

(c) No bonds, notes, or other obligations of, and no indebtedness incurred by, the authority shall constitute an indebtedness or obligation or a pledge of the faith and credit of the State of Georgia or its agencies; nor shall any act of the authority in any manner constitute or result in the creation of an indebtedness of the state or its agencies or a cause of action against the state or its agencies; provided, however, that the state, to the extent permitted by its Constitution, may guarantee payment of such bonds, notes, or other obligations as guaranteed revenue debt.

(c) No bonds, notes, or other obligations of, and no indebtedness incurred by, the authority shall constitute an indebtedness or obligation or a pledge of the faith and credit of the State of Georgia or its agencies; nor shall any act of the authority in any manner constitute or result in the creation of an indebtedness of the state or its agencies or a cause of action against the state or its agencies; provided, however, that the state, to the extent permitted by its Constitution, may guarantee payment of such bonds, notes, or other obligations as guaranteed revenue debt.

(d) It is found, determined, and declared that the creation of the authority and the carrying out of its corporate purpose are in all respects for the benefit of the people of this state and are a public purpose and the authority will be performing an essential government function in the exercise of the powers conferred upon it by this chapter. The state covenants with the holders of the bonds that the authority shall not be required to pay any taxes or assessments upon any of the property acquired or leased by the authority or under the jurisdiction, control, possession, or supervision of the authority or upon the activities of the authority in the financing of the activities financed by the authority or upon any principal, interest, premium, fees, charges, or other income received by the authority and that the bonds of the authority, their transfer, and the income therefrom shall at all times be exempt from taxation within the state. The exemption from taxation is declared to specifically extend to any subsidiary corporation created by the board of directors of the authority but shall not extend to tenants or lessees of the authority unless otherwise exempt from taxation. The exemption from taxation shall include exemptions from sales and use taxes on property purchased by the authority or for use by the authority.

(d) It is found, determined, and declared that the creation of the authority and the carrying out of its corporate purpose are in all respects for the benefit of the people of this state and are a public purpose and the authority will be performing an essential government function in the exercise of the powers conferred upon it by this chapter. The state covenants with the holders of the bonds that the authority shall not be required to pay any taxes or assessments upon any of the property acquired or leased by the authority or under the jurisdiction, control, possession, or supervision of the authority or upon the activities of the authority in the financing of the activities financed by the authority or upon any principal, interest, premium, fees, charges, or other income received by the authority and that the bonds of the authority, their transfer, and the income therefrom shall at all times be exempt from taxation within the state. The exemption from taxation is declared to specifically extend to any subsidiary corporation created by the board of directors of the authority but shall not extend to tenants or lessees of the authority unless otherwise exempt from taxation. The exemption from taxation shall include exemptions from sales and use taxes on property purchased by the authority or for use by the authority.

(e) The state does pledge to and agree with the holders of any bonds issued by the authority pursuant to this chapter that the state will not alter or limit the rights vested in the authority to fulfill the terms of any agreement made with or for the benefit of the holders of bonds or in any way impair the rights and remedies of bondholders until the bonds, together with the interest thereon, with interest on any unpaid installments of interest, and all costs and expenses in connection with any action or proceeding by or on behalf of such holders are fully met and discharged or funds for the payment of such are fully provided. The authority is authorized to include this pledge and agreement of the state in any agreement with bondholders.

(e) The state does pledge to and agree with the holders of any bonds issued by the authority pursuant to this chapter that the state will not alter or limit the rights vested in the authority to fulfill the terms of any agreement made with or for the benefit of the holders of bonds or in any way impair the rights and remedies of bondholders until the bonds, together with the interest thereon, with interest on any unpaid installments of interest, and all costs and expenses in connection with any action or proceeding by or on behalf of such holders are fully met and discharged or funds for the payment of such are fully provided. The authority is authorized to include this pledge and agreement of the state in any agreement with bondholders.
O.C.G.A. § 50-32-37 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 32 / Section 50-32-37
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-32-37
Status: in_force

It is found, determined, and declared that the creation of this authority and the carrying out of its corporate purposes is in all respects for the benefit of the people of the state and that the authority is an institution of purely public charity and will be performing an essential governmental function in the exercise of the power conferred upon it by this chapter. For such reasons the state covenants with the owners from time to time of the bonds, notes, and other obligations issued under this chapter that the authority shall not be required to pay any taxes or assessments imposed by the state or any of its counties, municipal corporations, political subdivisions, or taxing districts upon any property acquired by the authority or under its jurisdiction, control, possession, or supervision or leased by it to others, or upon its activities in the operation or maintenance of any such property or on any income derived by the authority in the form of fees, recording fees, rentals, charges, purchase price, installments, or otherwise, and that the bonds, notes, and other obligations of the authority, their transfer, and the income therefrom shall at all times be exempt from taxation within the state. The tax exemption provided in this chapter shall include an exemption from sales and use tax on property purchased by the authority or for use by the authority.
O.C.G.A. § 50-3-31 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 3 / Section 50-3-31
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-3-31
Status: in_force

In addition to official documents which require that the great seal be affixed, the Governor may authorize the use and display of the great seal or a facsimile of the state emblem under such conditions as he may impose when there shall be demonstrated to his satisfaction that the intended use or display thereof is appropriate and legitimate and is not contrary to the state's interest in preserving the sanctity and dignity of the state seal and emblem and that the use or display will not otherwise violate Code Section 50-3-8 or 50-3-9 .
O.C.G.A. § 50-2-24 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 2 / Section 50-2-24
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-2-24
Status: in_force

The jurisdiction ceded as provided in Code Section 50-2-23 shall not vest until the United States has acquired the title to the lands by purchase, condemnation, or otherwise. As long as the lands remain the property of the United States when acquired by purchase, condemnation, or otherwise, and no longer, the same shall be and continue to be exempt and exonerated from all state, county, and municipal assessment, or other charges which may be levied or imposed under authority of the state.
O.C.G.A. § 50-39-31 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 39 / Section 50-39-31
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-39-31
Status: in_force

The authority may serve as the entity to discharge all duties imposed on the state by any act of Congress allotting federal funds to be expended for transit projects and purposes within the jurisdiction of the authority. Unless designated otherwise by the federal government, the authority shall be designated as the proper and sole authority to receive any of the federal aid funds apportioned by the federal government for use within the jurisdiction of the authority and may disburse such funds in accordance with the purposes of this article. This Code section shall not be deemed to impair or interfere in any manner with any existing rights under a contract entered into prior to December 1, 2018, or any federal grants or agreements awarded or entered into prior to December 1, 2018. This Code section shall not be applicable to projects or services provided for under the terms of a contract entered into as of December 1, 2018, under the authority granted pursuant to a local constitutional amendment set out at Ga. L. 1964, p. 1008; 1 and the planning, funding, coordination, and delivery of such projects or services shall be as provided for by such contract or contracts.

1 See GA CONST App. 2.
O.C.G.A. § 50-14-2 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 14 / Section 50-14-2
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-14-2
Status: in_force

This chapter shall not be construed so as to repeal in any way:

(1) The attorney-client privilege recognized by state law to the extent that a meeting otherwise required to be open to the public under this chapter may be closed in order to consult and meet with legal counsel pertaining to pending or potential litigation, settlement, claims, administrative proceedings, or other judicial actions brought or to be brought by or against the agency or any officer or employee or in which the agency or any officer or employee may be directly involved; provided, however, the meeting may not be closed for advice or consultation on whether to close a meeting; and

(1) The attorney-client privilege recognized by state law to the extent that a meeting otherwise required to be open to the public under this chapter may be closed in order to consult and meet with legal counsel pertaining to pending or potential litigation, settlement, claims, administrative proceedings, or other judicial actions brought or to be brought by or against the agency or any officer or employee or in which the agency or any officer or employee may be directly involved; provided, however, the meeting may not be closed for advice or consultation on whether to close a meeting; and

(2) Those tax matters which are otherwise made confidential by state law.

(2) Those tax matters which are otherwise made confidential by state law.
O.C.G.A. § 50-16-125 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 16 / Section 50-16-125
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-16-125
Status: in_force

The State Properties Commission is authorized and directed to promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry out this part, provided such rules and regulations are not in conflict with this part.
O.C.G.A. § 50-3-60 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 3 / Section 50-3-60
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-3-60
Status: in_force

The song “Georgia on My Mind” with lyrics by Mr. Stuart Gorrell and music by Mr. Hoagy Carmichael is designated as the official song of the State of Georgia.

--Georgia on My Mind--

Melodies bring memories

That linger in my heart

Make me think of Georgia

Why did we ever part?

Some sweet day when blossoms fall

And all the world's a song

I'll go back to Georgia

'Cause that's where I belong.

Georgia, Georgia, the whole day through

Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind.

Georgia, Georgia, a song of you

Comes as sweet and clear as moonlight through the pines.

Other arms reach out to me

Other eyes smile tenderly

Still in peaceful dreams I see

The road leads back to you.

Georgia, Georgia, no peace I find

Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind.

Use by State of Georgia governed by 1979 agreement with Peer International Corporation. Copyright 1930 by Peer International Corporation. Copyright renewed. Used by permission.
O.C.G.A. § 50-8-14 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 8 / Section 50-8-14
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-8-14
Status: in_force

The administration of programs, grants, and other activities covered by this chapter shall not be covered by, subject to, or required to comply with or satisfy any provision of Chapter 13 of this title, known as the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 50-27-6 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 27 / Section 50-27-6
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-27-6
Status: in_force

(a) The chairperson of the board of directors shall appoint a Lottery Retailer Advisory Board to be composed of ten lottery retailers representing the broadest possible spectrum of geographical, racial, and business characteristics of lottery retailers. The function of the advisory board shall be to advise the board of directors on retail aspects of the lottery and to present the concerns of lottery retailers throughout the state.

(a) The chairperson of the board of directors shall appoint a Lottery Retailer Advisory Board to be composed of ten lottery retailers representing the broadest possible spectrum of geographical, racial, and business characteristics of lottery retailers. The function of the advisory board shall be to advise the board of directors on retail aspects of the lottery and to present the concerns of lottery retailers throughout the state.

(b) Members appointed to the Lottery Retailer Advisory Board shall serve terms of two years; provided, however, that five of the initial appointees shall serve initial terms of one year.

(b) Members appointed to the Lottery Retailer Advisory Board shall serve terms of two years; provided, however, that five of the initial appointees shall serve initial terms of one year.

(c) The advisory board shall establish its own rules and internal operating procedures. Members of the advisory board shall serve without compensation or reimbursement of expenses. The advisory board may report to the board of directors or to the oversight committee in writing at any time. The board of directors may invite the advisory board to make an oral presentation to the board of directors at regular meetings of the board.

(c) The advisory board shall establish its own rules and internal operating procedures. Members of the advisory board shall serve without compensation or reimbursement of expenses. The advisory board may report to the board of directors or to the oversight committee in writing at any time. The board of directors may invite the advisory board to make an oral presentation to the board of directors at regular meetings of the board.
O.C.G.A. § 50-8-43 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 8 / Section 50-8-43
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-8-43
Status: in_force

The governing authorities of the local governmental entities within each regional commission may appropriate or loan their funds, facilities, equipment, and supplies to the regional commission.
O.C.G.A. § 50-25-7-11 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 25 / Section 50-25-7-11
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-25-7.11
Status: in_force

The Governor shall have the authority to transfer the technology resources as provided in this chapter of all state agencies, except those under the authority, direction, or control of the General Assembly or state-wide elected officials other than the Governor, to the authority. This Code section shall be implemented by executive order of the Governor, and the Governor shall have the authority to implement this Code section in whole or in part, in phases or stages, or in any manner or sequence which he or she may deem appropriate. In making such transfer, the Governor shall consult with the head of the agency affected and shall assure that the transfer shall not interrupt such agency's services.
O.C.G.A. § 50-17-63 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 17 / Section 50-17-63
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-17-63
Status: in_force

(a) All demand funds held by any department, board, bureau, or other agency of the state shall be deposited in state depositories, except the monthly deposits of funds for current operating expenses may be deposited in a foreign bank by any department, board, bureau, or other agency of the state which has a foreign office, provided that the department, board, bureau, or other agency of the state limits its operating deposits in foreign banks to conform to guidelines and dollar limitations prescribed by the State Depository Board; and such funds that are in excess of requirements for current operating expenses shall be placed under time deposit agreements by the state treasurer conforming to interest contracts then having approval of the board made pursuant to Code Section 50-17-52 ; and any funds not deposited or placed under time deposit agreements shall be subject to immediate withdrawal on order of the state treasurer when directed by the board. The board may permit any department, board, bureau, or other agency to invest funds collected directly by that department, board, bureau, or agency in short-term time deposit agreements, provided the interest income of those funds is remitted to the state treasurer as revenues of the state.

(a) All demand funds held by any department, board, bureau, or other agency of the state shall be deposited in state depositories, except the monthly deposits of funds for current operating expenses may be deposited in a foreign bank by any department, board, bureau, or other agency of the state which has a foreign office, provided that the department, board, bureau, or other agency of the state limits its operating deposits in foreign banks to conform to guidelines and dollar limitations prescribed by the State Depository Board; and such funds that are in excess of requirements for current operating expenses shall be placed under time deposit agreements by the state treasurer conforming to interest contracts then having approval of the board made pursuant to Code Section 50-17-52 ; and any funds not deposited or placed under time deposit agreements shall be subject to immediate withdrawal on order of the state treasurer when directed by the board. The board may permit any department, board, bureau, or other agency to invest funds collected directly by that department, board, bureau, or agency in short-term time deposit agreements, provided the interest income of those funds is remitted to the state treasurer as revenues of the state.

(b) All departments, boards, bureaus, and other agencies of the state shall report to the board, on such forms and at such times as the board may prescribe, such information as the board may reasonably require concerning deposits and withdrawals pursuant to this Code section and shall enable the board to determine compliance with this Code section. Interest earned on state funds withdrawn from the state treasury on approved budgets shall be remitted to the Office of the State Treasurer by each department, board, bureau, or agency and placed in the general fund. The board may permit the state treasurer to invest in any one or more of the following: bankers' acceptances; commercial paper; bonds, bills, certificates of indebtedness, notes, or other obligations of the United States and its subsidiary corporations and instrumentalities or entities sanctioned or authorized by the United States government including, but not limited to, obligations or securities issued or guaranteed by Banks for Cooperatives regulated by the Farm Credit Administration, the Commodity Credit Corporation, Farm Credit Banks regulated by the Farm Credit Administration, Federal Assets Financing Trusts, the Federal Financing Bank, Federal Home Loan Banks, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, the Federal National Mortgage Association, the Financial Assistance Corporation chartered by the Farm Credit Administration, the Government National Mortgage Association, the Import-Export Bank, Production Credit Associations regulated by the Farm Credit Administration, the Resolution Trust Corporation, and the Tennessee Valley Authority; obligations of corporations organized under the laws of this state or any other state but only if the corporation has a market capitalization equivalent to $100 million; provided, however, that such obligation shall be listed as investment grade by a nationally recognized rating agency; the shares of any mutual fund the investments of which are limited to securities of the type described in this subsection and distributions from which are treated for federal income tax purposes in the same manner as the interest on said obligations, provided that at the time of investment such obligations, or the obligations held by any such unit investment trust or the obligations held or to be acquired by any such mutual fund, are limited to obligations which are rated within one of the top two rating categories of any nationally recognized rating service or any rating service recognized by the commissioner of banking and finance, and no others, or to securities lending transactions involving securities of the type described in this subsection; bonds, notes, warrants, and other securities not in default which are the direct obligations of the government of any foreign country which the International Monetary Fund lists as an industrialized country and for which the full faith and credit of such government has been pledged for the payment of principal and interest, provided that such securities are listed as investment grade by a nationally recognized rating agency; or obligations issued, assumed, or guaranteed by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development or the International Financial Corporation, provided that such securities are listed as investment grade by a nationally recognized rating agency; provided, however, that interest earned on the investment of motor fuel tax revenues shall be defined as motor fuel tax revenues and shall be appropriated in conformity with and pursuant to Article III, Section IX, Paragraph VI(b) of the Constitution of Georgia . The board may also permit the state treasurer to lend any of the securities of the type identified in this subsection subject to the limitations of subsection (b) of Code Section 50-5A-7 and this chapter.

(b) All departments, boards, bureaus, and other agencies of the state shall report to the board, on such forms and at such times as the board may prescribe, such information as the board may reasonably require concerning deposits and withdrawals pursuant to this Code section and shall enable the board to determine compliance with this Code section. Interest earned on state funds withdrawn from the state treasury on approved budgets shall be remitted to the Office of the State Treasurer by each department, board, bureau, or agency and placed in the general fund. The board may permit the state treasurer to invest in any one or more of the following: bankers' acceptances; commercial paper; bonds, bills, certificates of indebtedness, notes, or other obligations of the United States and its subsidiary corporations and instrumentalities or entities sanctioned or authorized by the United States government including, but not limited to, obligations or securities issued or guaranteed by Banks for Cooperatives regulated by the Farm Credit Administration, the Commodity Credit Corporation, Farm Credit Banks regulated by the Farm Credit Administration, Federal Assets Financing Trusts, the Federal Financing Bank, Federal Home Loan Banks, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, the Federal National Mortgage Association, the Financial Assistance Corporation chartered by the Farm Credit Administration, the Government National Mortgage Association, the Import-Export Bank, Production Credit Associations regulated by the Farm Credit Administration, the Resolution Trust Corporation, and the Tennessee Valley Authority; obligations of corporations organized under the laws of this state or any other state but only if the corporation has a market capitalization equivalent to $100 million; provided, however, that such obligation shall be listed as investment grade by a nationally recognized rating agency; the shares of any mutual fund the investments of which are limited to securities of the type described in this subsection and distributions from which are treated for federal income tax purposes in the same manner as the interest on said obligations, provided that at the time of investment such obligations, or the obligations held by any such unit investment trust or the obligations held or to be acquired by any such mutual fund, are limited to obligations which are rated within one of the top two rating categories of any nationally recognized rating service or any rating service recognized by the commissioner of banking and finance, and no others, or to securities lending transactions involving securities of the type described in this subsection; bonds, notes, warrants, and other securities not in default which are the direct obligations of the government of any foreign country which the International Monetary Fund lists as an industrialized country and for which the full faith and credit of such government has been pledged for the payment of principal and interest, provided that such securities are listed as investment grade by a nationally recognized rating agency; or obligations issued, assumed, or guaranteed by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development or the International Financial Corporation, provided that such securities are listed as investment grade by a nationally recognized rating agency; provided, however, that interest earned on the investment of motor fuel tax revenues shall be defined as motor fuel tax revenues and shall be appropriated in conformity with and pursuant to Article III, Section IX, Paragraph VI(b) of the Constitution of Georgia . The board may also permit the state treasurer to lend any of the securities of the type identified in this subsection subject to the limitations of subsection (b) of Code Section 50-5A-7 and this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 50-19-6 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 19 / Section 50-19-6
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-19-6
Status: in_force

The various offices, agencies, departments, boards, bureaus, commissions, institutions, authorities, or other entities of the state are authorized, subject to the approval of the Office of Planning and Budget consistent with legislative appropriations, to purchase, lease, or accept as donations passenger-carrying automobiles and other motor vehicles for the use of officers, officials, and employees in the performance of their official duties. The operation, use, maintenance, service, and repair of passenger-carrying automobiles shall be governed by the rules and regulations promulgated by the Office of Planning and Budget pursuant to Code Section 45-12-73 .
O.C.G.A. § 50-10-7 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 10 / Section 50-10-7
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-10-7
Status: in_force

Long-term notes secured by real estate and held by the authority or its assignees shall be exempt from the intangible recording tax imposed by Article 3 of Chapter 6 of Title 48.
O.C.G.A. § 50-9-10 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 9 / Section 50-9-10
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-9-10
Status: in_force

It shall be the duty of the authority to prescribe rules and regulations for the operation of each project or combination of projects constructed under this article and Article 2 of this chapter, including rules and regulations to ensure maximum use or occupancy of each such project.
O.C.G.A. § 50-5-68 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 5 / Section 50-5-68
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-5-68
Status: in_force

Prospective suppliers may be prequalified for particular types of supplies, services, goods, materials, and equipment at the discretion of the Department of Administrative Services. Solicitation mailing lists of potential contractors shall include, but shall not be limited to, such prequalified suppliers. The award of contracts, however, may be conditioned upon prequalification.
O.C.G.A. § 50-12-81 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 12 / Section 50-12-81
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-12-81
Status: in_force

The commission shall elect a chairman, vice chairman, and a secretary from among its members for terms of two years, and any member shall be eligible for successive election to such office by the commission. A quorum for transacting business shall be a majority of the members of the commission.
O.C.G.A. § 50-26-17 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 26 / Section 50-26-17
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-26-17
Status: in_force

(a) The authority may directly acquire, manage, develop, and dispose of real property and improvements thereon as it deems necessary or desirable to provide adequate housing within the state.

(a) The authority may directly acquire, manage, develop, and dispose of real property and improvements thereon as it deems necessary or desirable to provide adequate housing within the state.

(b) The authority may issue bonds for reverse equity mortgages to enable the elderly to maintain a decent and appropriate residence while providing necessary cash for living expenses.

(b) The authority may issue bonds for reverse equity mortgages to enable the elderly to maintain a decent and appropriate residence while providing necessary cash for living expenses.

(c) With respect to the sale of new qualified mortgage bonds, at the time of original issuance of such bonds, at least one-third of the total proceeds available for mortgage loans shall be set aside to finance housing units in the metropolitan statistical areas of this state and at least one-third of the total proceeds available for mortgage loans shall be set aside to finance housing units outside of the metropolitan statistical areas of this state. The time period for the geographic set aside shall be four months from the date of issuance of the bonds. For the purpose of this geographic distribution requirement, no county with a population of less than 50,000 shall be considered as being within a metropolitan statistical area of this state. No geographic distribution requirement shall apply to multifamily housing units financed by the authority. No geographic distribution requirement shall apply to refunding bonds or recycled proceeds or to qualified mortgage bonds issued to spur economic and housing development in a discrete geographic area.

(c) With respect to the sale of new qualified mortgage bonds, at the time of original issuance of such bonds, at least one-third of the total proceeds available for mortgage loans shall be set aside to finance housing units in the metropolitan statistical areas of this state and at least one-third of the total proceeds available for mortgage loans shall be set aside to finance housing units outside of the metropolitan statistical areas of this state. The time period for the geographic set aside shall be four months from the date of issuance of the bonds. For the purpose of this geographic distribution requirement, no county with a population of less than 50,000 shall be considered as being within a metropolitan statistical area of this state. No geographic distribution requirement shall apply to multifamily housing units financed by the authority. No geographic distribution requirement shall apply to refunding bonds or recycled proceeds or to qualified mortgage bonds issued to spur economic and housing development in a discrete geographic area.

(d) The authority may receive and administer any and all federal funds, state funds, or funds, grants, or gifts from other sources which are intended to promote the availability or affordability of housing and housing finance within the state.

(d) The authority may receive and administer any and all federal funds, state funds, or funds, grants, or gifts from other sources which are intended to promote the availability or affordability of housing and housing finance within the state.

(e) The authority is the sole and exclusive issuer of mortgage credit certificates in and for the state, notwithstanding any contrary provision of law; provided, however, that any urban residential finance authority is permitted to issue mortgage credit certificates but only if the urban residential finance authority adopts purchase price and income limits consistent with those adopted by the Georgia Housing and Finance Authority for the mortgage credit certificate program.

(e) The authority is the sole and exclusive issuer of mortgage credit certificates in and for the state, notwithstanding any contrary provision of law; provided, however, that any urban residential finance authority is permitted to issue mortgage credit certificates but only if the urban residential finance authority adopts purchase price and income limits consistent with those adopted by the Georgia Housing and Finance Authority for the mortgage credit certificate program.

(f) Code Section 44-14-5 shall not be applicable to mortgage loans purchased, made, or otherwise financed by the authority.

(f) Code Section 44-14-5 shall not be applicable to mortgage loans purchased, made, or otherwise financed by the authority.
O.C.G.A. § 50-3-70 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 3 / Section 50-3-70
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-3-70
Status: in_force

The peach is designated as the official Georgia state fruit.
O.C.G.A. § 50-7-13 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 7 / Section 50-7-13
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-7-13
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, all net revenue derived from the sale of nonalcoholic beverages, snacks, candy, cigarettes, and other articles from vending machines at welcome centers and tourist centers shall be utilized by the Department of Economic Development to offset the cost of maintenance of all welcome centers and tourist centers and litter pickup in these areas. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, all net revenue derived from the sale of nonalcoholic beverages, snacks, candy, cigarettes, and other articles from vending machines at safety rest areas shall be utilized by the Department of Transportation to offset the cost of maintenance of all safety rest areas and litter pickup in these areas.
O.C.G.A. § 50-17-102 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 17 / Section 50-17-102
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-17-102
Status: in_force

(a) Prior to executing and delivering a qualified interest rate management agreement, the state party shall have adopted an interest rate management plan that includes: (1) An analysis of the interest rate risk, basis risk, termination risk, credit risk, market-access risk, and other risks to the state party entering into qualified interest rate management agreements; (2) The state party's procedure for approving and executing qualified interest rate management agreements; (3) The state party's plan to monitor interest rate risk, basis risk, termination risk, credit risk, market-access risk, and other risks; and (4) Such other provisions as may from time to time be required by the commission, including but not limited to additional provisions due to changes in market conditions for qualified interest rate management agreements. Any interest rate management plan adopted by the state shall be approved by the commission or by a designated officer of the commission and shall have been reviewed by an independent financial adviser approved by the commission.

(a) Prior to executing and delivering a qualified interest rate management agreement, the state party shall have adopted an interest rate management plan that includes:

(1) An analysis of the interest rate risk, basis risk, termination risk, credit risk, market-access risk, and other risks to the state party entering into qualified interest rate management agreements;

(1) An analysis of the interest rate risk, basis risk, termination risk, credit risk, market-access risk, and other risks to the state party entering into qualified interest rate management agreements;

(2) The state party's procedure for approving and executing qualified interest rate management agreements;

(2) The state party's procedure for approving and executing qualified interest rate management agreements;

(3) The state party's plan to monitor interest rate risk, basis risk, termination risk, credit risk, market-access risk, and other risks; and

(3) The state party's plan to monitor interest rate risk, basis risk, termination risk, credit risk, market-access risk, and other risks; and

(4) Such other provisions as may from time to time be required by the commission, including but not limited to additional provisions due to changes in market conditions for qualified interest rate management agreements.

(4) Such other provisions as may from time to time be required by the commission, including but not limited to additional provisions due to changes in market conditions for qualified interest rate management agreements.

Any interest rate management plan adopted by the state shall be approved by the commission or by a designated officer of the commission and shall have been reviewed by an independent financial adviser approved by the commission.

(b) The state party shall conduct an annual review of its interest rate management plan as to the adequacy of the procedures set forth in such plan for the analysis and monitoring requirements set forth in subsection (a) of this Code section. A report summarizing the results of such review shall be submitted annually to the commission and, with respect to any interest rate management plan of a state authority, to the governing body of such state authority. The requirements of this subsection shall not be construed as to require the review of any existing interest rate management plan by an independent financial adviser.

(b) The state party shall conduct an annual review of its interest rate management plan as to the adequacy of the procedures set forth in such plan for the analysis and monitoring requirements set forth in subsection (a) of this Code section. A report summarizing the results of such review shall be submitted annually to the commission and, with respect to any interest rate management plan of a state authority, to the governing body of such state authority. The requirements of this subsection shall not be construed as to require the review of any existing interest rate management plan by an independent financial adviser.
O.C.G.A. § 50-16-3-1 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 16 / Section 50-16-3-1
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-16-3.1
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “state authority” means: (1) The Jekyll Island--State Park Authority provided for in Part 1 of Article 7 of Chapter 3 of Title 12; or (2) The Stone Mountain Memorial Association provided for in Part 4 of Article 6 of Chapter 3 of Title 12.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “state authority” means:

(1) The Jekyll Island--State Park Authority provided for in Part 1 of Article 7 of Chapter 3 of Title 12; or

(1) The Jekyll Island--State Park Authority provided for in Part 1 of Article 7 of Chapter 3 of Title 12; or

(2) The Stone Mountain Memorial Association provided for in Part 4 of Article 6 of Chapter 3 of Title 12.

(2) The Stone Mountain Memorial Association provided for in Part 4 of Article 6 of Chapter 3 of Title 12.

(b) The provisions of any other laws of this state to the contrary notwithstanding, no state authority shall be authorized to sell real property; provided, however, this prohibition shall not apply to the sale or other disposition of real property by a state authority when such real property is necessary for a public road right of way.

(b) The provisions of any other laws of this state to the contrary notwithstanding, no state authority shall be authorized to sell real property; provided, however, this prohibition shall not apply to the sale or other disposition of real property by a state authority when such real property is necessary for a public road right of way.
O.C.G.A. § 50-16-2 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 16 / Section 50-16-2
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-16-2
Status: in_force

The state owns 3,636 shares of stock in the Georgia Railroad and Banking Company.
O.C.G.A. § 50-5-59 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 5 / Section 50-5-59
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-5-59
Status: in_force

It shall be the duty of all departments, institutions, or agencies of the state government to furnish to the Department of Administrative Services when requested and on blanks to be approved by it tabulated estimates of all supplies, materials, and equipment needed and required by the department, institution, or agency for such periods in advance as may be directed by the Department of Administrative Services; and it shall further be the duty of all departments, institutions, or agencies to furnish the Department of Administrative Services inventories from time to time of supplies, materials, or equipment on hand when requested by the Department of Administrative Services.
O.C.G.A. § 50-16-64 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 16 / Section 50-16-64
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-16-64
Status: in_force

At all sheriff's sales under any execution in favor of the state or the Governor, the Governor, or anyone authorized by him, may purchase the property so sold, provided that in no case shall more be bid for such property than the amount due the state upon the execution.
O.C.G.A. § 50-16-19 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 16 / Section 50-16-19
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-16-19
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “development activity” means the construction of a structure having an area occupied and defined by the exterior of such structure of at least 1,000 square feet or of a parking lot, other than roadway, street, or bridge construction.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “development activity” means the construction of a structure having an area occupied and defined by the exterior of such structure of at least 1,000 square feet or of a parking lot, other than roadway, street, or bridge construction.

(b) Any project for development activity by the state on or after December 31, 2001, shall be designed in such a manner so as to minimize the loss or destruction of trees on the site of such construction and shall include a landscape plan providing, to the greatest extent practicable, for the retention of trees located on the site, for the replacement of trees lost with trees indigenous to the region, and for the planting of new indigenous trees.

(b) Any project for development activity by the state on or after December 31, 2001, shall be designed in such a manner so as to minimize the loss or destruction of trees on the site of such construction and shall include a landscape plan providing, to the greatest extent practicable, for the retention of trees located on the site, for the replacement of trees lost with trees indigenous to the region, and for the planting of new indigenous trees.
O.C.G.A. § 50-23-27 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 23 / Section 50-23-27
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-23-27
Status: in_force

The division shall have the authority and responsibility to:

(1) Administer this part;

(1) Administer this part;

(2) Coordinate with the Department of Natural Resources and with other departments, divisions, agencies, or officials of this state or political subdivisions thereof and appropriate private and professional organizations in matters related to water supply. The division and any other department, educational institution, agency, or official of this state or political subdivision thereof which in any way would affect the administration or enforcement of this part or Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 12 shall be required to coordinate all such activities with the division to assure orderly and efficient administration and enforcement of this part;

(2) Coordinate with the Department of Natural Resources and with other departments, divisions, agencies, or officials of this state or political subdivisions thereof and appropriate private and professional organizations in matters related to water supply. The division and any other department, educational institution, agency, or official of this state or political subdivision thereof which in any way would affect the administration or enforcement of this part or Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 12 shall be required to coordinate all such activities with the division to assure orderly and efficient administration and enforcement of this part;

(3) Do all things necessary to cooperate with the United States government and qualify for, accept, and disburse any public or private grant intended for the administration of this part;

(3) Do all things necessary to cooperate with the United States government and qualify for, accept, and disburse any public or private grant intended for the administration of this part;

(4) Apply for, receive, accept, and administer federal funds and programs made available to this state for the purposes of this part;

(4) Apply for, receive, accept, and administer federal funds and programs made available to this state for the purposes of this part;

(5) Contract for services if such services cannot be satisfactorily performed by employees of the division or by any other state agency;

(5) Contract for services if such services cannot be satisfactorily performed by employees of the division or by any other state agency;

(6) Design and implement programs to assist local governing authorities and other entities in implementing water supply projects; and

(6) Design and implement programs to assist local governing authorities and other entities in implementing water supply projects; and

(7) Exercise such powers and perform such duties as assigned or contracted to the division or the authority under Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 12.

(7) Exercise such powers and perform such duties as assigned or contracted to the division or the authority under Article 6 of Chapter 5 of Title 12.
O.C.G.A. § 50-8-87 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 8 / Section 50-8-87
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-8-87
Status: in_force

(a) The chairman of a commission shall be elected by the commission from among its members for a two-year term, but no person shall serve as chairman if, after his election to office, he ceases to be a member of the commission. A chairman may succeed himself.

(a) The chairman of a commission shall be elected by the commission from among its members for a two-year term, but no person shall serve as chairman if, after his election to office, he ceases to be a member of the commission. A chairman may succeed himself.

(b) The chairman of a commission shall preside at all meetings of the commission. The chairman shall appoint all officers and committees of the commission, subject to the approval of the commission, and be responsible for carrying out all policy decisions of the commission. The chairman's salary and expense allowances shall be fixed by the commission.

(b) The chairman of a commission shall preside at all meetings of the commission. The chairman shall appoint all officers and committees of the commission, subject to the approval of the commission, and be responsible for carrying out all policy decisions of the commission. The chairman's salary and expense allowances shall be fixed by the commission.

(c) A chairman may be removed from office by the commission.

(c) A chairman may be removed from office by the commission.
O.C.G.A. § 50-24-4 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 24 / Section 50-24-4
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-24-4
Status: in_force

The principal representative of a state agency shall not enter into a contract with an individual or a person as a contractor unless the contract includes a certification by the individual or person that the individual or person will not engage in the unlawful manufacture, sale, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance or marijuana during the performance of the contract.
O.C.G.A. § 50-18-21 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 18 / Section 50-18-21
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-18-21
Status: in_force

The reporter, acting upon the advice of the Governor, shall prepare a contract to be awarded every four years, or as the occasion may require, which contract is renewable annually during those four years and provides for the publication of the state reports. This contract shall be on file for public inspection in the offices of the Department of Administrative Services.
O.C.G.A. § 50-8-301 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 8 / Section 50-8-301
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-8-301
Status: in_force

(a) The Georgia Geospatial Advisory Council shall be created. All data, reports, and other documents of the former Georgia Geospatial Advisory Council as such existed under the Department of Natural Resources prior to June 30, 2017, shall be transferred to the department for use by such newly created council.

(a) The Georgia Geospatial Advisory Council shall be created. All data, reports, and other documents of the former Georgia Geospatial Advisory Council as such existed under the Department of Natural Resources prior to June 30, 2017, shall be transferred to the department for use by such newly created council.

(b) The department shall coordinate the recreation of the Georgia Geospatial Advisory Council. The commissioner, or his or her designee, shall coordinate with state executive branch departments and agencies to appoint members of the council, which may consist of representatives from state departments and agencies, local governments, universities, regional commissions, or any other entity the department determines to be a stakeholder active in the development or consumption of reliable geospatial resources.

(b) The department shall coordinate the recreation of the Georgia Geospatial Advisory Council. The commissioner, or his or her designee, shall coordinate with state executive branch departments and agencies to appoint members of the council, which may consist of representatives from state departments and agencies, local governments, universities, regional commissions, or any other entity the department determines to be a stakeholder active in the development or consumption of reliable geospatial resources.

(c) The council shall meet initially upon the call of the commissioner and shall elect a chairperson at the initial meeting. Subsequent meetings shall be called by the chairperson. The members of the council shall serve at the pleasure of the commissioner. Councilmembers shall receive no compensation for their services as members of the council, but their travel expenses, if any, related to the performance of their official duties may be covered by the departments, agencies, or organizations they represent.

(c) The council shall meet initially upon the call of the commissioner and shall elect a chairperson at the initial meeting. Subsequent meetings shall be called by the chairperson. The members of the council shall serve at the pleasure of the commissioner. Councilmembers shall receive no compensation for their services as members of the council, but their travel expenses, if any, related to the performance of their official duties may be covered by the departments, agencies, or organizations they represent.

(d) The council shall make recommendations for: (1) Utilizing geospatial capabilities in Georgia to meet any federal notification requirements; (2) Moving forward to achieve reliable governmental data interoperability and enhanced delivery of services to Georgia citizens through the geospatial approach; and (3) Any other aspects of data collection, information optimization, and innovation determined by the council to be necessary for the advancement of geospatial technology.

(d) The council shall make recommendations for:

(1) Utilizing geospatial capabilities in Georgia to meet any federal notification requirements;

(1) Utilizing geospatial capabilities in Georgia to meet any federal notification requirements;

(2) Moving forward to achieve reliable governmental data interoperability and enhanced delivery of services to Georgia citizens through the geospatial approach; and

(2) Moving forward to achieve reliable governmental data interoperability and enhanced delivery of services to Georgia citizens through the geospatial approach; and

(3) Any other aspects of data collection, information optimization, and innovation determined by the council to be necessary for the advancement of geospatial technology.

(3) Any other aspects of data collection, information optimization, and innovation determined by the council to be necessary for the advancement of geospatial technology.

(e) The council may closely coordinate its efforts with the Georgia Technology Authority to ensure compliance with all state and federal standards, contracts, and procedures.

(e) The council may closely coordinate its efforts with the Georgia Technology Authority to ensure compliance with all state and federal standards, contracts, and procedures.

(f) Any reports generated by the council shall be made available on an annual basis by the department to the members of the General Assembly, all departments and agencies of state government, all county and municipal governments, and members of the general public by posting such reports on the appropriate state agency websites.

(f) Any reports generated by the council shall be made available on an annual basis by the department to the members of the General Assembly, all departments and agencies of state government, all county and municipal governments, and members of the general public by posting such reports on the appropriate state agency websites.

(g) The department shall promulgate such rules and regulations as may be reasonable and necessary for the administration of this article.

(g) The department shall promulgate such rules and regulations as may be reasonable and necessary for the administration of this article.
O.C.G.A. § 50-34-12 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 34 / Section 50-34-12
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-34-12
Status: in_force

(a) All moneys received pursuant to the authority of this chapter, whether as proceeds from the sale of bonds or other obligations, as grants or other contributions, or as revenues and earnings, shall be deemed to be trust funds to be held and applied solely as provided in this chapter. The authority shall, in the resolution providing for the issuance of bonds or in the trust indenture, provide for the payment of the proceeds of the sale of the bonds and the earnings and revenues to be received to any officer who, or any agency, bank, or trust company which, shall act as trustee of such funds and shall hold and apply the same to the purposes expressed in this chapter, subject to such regulations as this chapter and such resolution or trust indenture may provide.

(a) All moneys received pursuant to the authority of this chapter, whether as proceeds from the sale of bonds or other obligations, as grants or other contributions, or as revenues and earnings, shall be deemed to be trust funds to be held and applied solely as provided in this chapter. The authority shall, in the resolution providing for the issuance of bonds or in the trust indenture, provide for the payment of the proceeds of the sale of the bonds and the earnings and revenues to be received to any officer who, or any agency, bank, or trust company which, shall act as trustee of such funds and shall hold and apply the same to the purposes expressed in this chapter, subject to such regulations as this chapter and such resolution or trust indenture may provide.

(b) The authority may pledge for the payment of its bonds such assets, funds, and properties as the resolution providing for the issuance of its bonds may provide. Any such pledge made by the authority is valid and binding from the time when the pledge is made; the moneys or properties so pledged and thereafter received by the authority are immediately subject to the lien of such pledge without any physical delivery thereof or further act; and the lien of any such pledge is valid and binding as against all parties having claims of any kind against the authority, irrespective of whether such parties have notice thereof. No resolution or any other instrument by which a pledge is created need be recorded.

(b) The authority may pledge for the payment of its bonds such assets, funds, and properties as the resolution providing for the issuance of its bonds may provide. Any such pledge made by the authority is valid and binding from the time when the pledge is made; the moneys or properties so pledged and thereafter received by the authority are immediately subject to the lien of such pledge without any physical delivery thereof or further act; and the lien of any such pledge is valid and binding as against all parties having claims of any kind against the authority, irrespective of whether such parties have notice thereof. No resolution or any other instrument by which a pledge is created need be recorded.
O.C.G.A. § 50-7-111 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 7 / Section 50-7-111
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-7-111
Status: in_force

In order to acknowledge the increasing production of films and television in this state, in order to promote the enjoyment and appreciation of the film and television industry in Georgia, and in order to provide public interest and enjoyment in visiting and viewing the location sites of films and television productions made in Georgia, a trail shall be developed to provide an opportunity for the public to be aware of these locations and visit film and television location sites throughout this state. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to provide for a Georgia Film and Television Trail.
O.C.G.A. § 50-3-51 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 3 / Section 50-3-51
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-3-51
Status: in_force

The bobwhite quail is designated as the official Georgia state game bird.
O.C.G.A. § 50-5-121 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 5 / Section 50-5-121
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-5-121
Status: in_force

For the purposes of this part, the term:

(1) “ Department ” means the Department of Administrative Services.

(1) “ Department ” means the Department of Administrative Services.

(2) “ Georgia resident business ” means any business that regularly maintains a place from which business is physically conducted in Georgia for at least one year prior to any bid or proposal to the state or a new business that is domiciled in Georgia and which regularly maintains a place from which business is physically conducted in Georgia; provided, however, that a place from which business is conducted shall not include a post office box, a leased private mailbox, site trailer, or temporary structure.

(2) “ Georgia resident business ” means any business that regularly maintains a place from which business is physically conducted in Georgia for at least one year prior to any bid or proposal to the state or a new business that is domiciled in Georgia and which regularly maintains a place from which business is physically conducted in Georgia; provided, however, that a place from which business is conducted shall not include a post office box, a leased private mailbox, site trailer, or temporary structure.

(3) “ Small business ” means a business which is independently owned and operated and: (A) Tier one: has ten or fewer employees or $1 million or less in gross receipts per year; (B) Tier two: has 100 or fewer employees or $10 million or less in gross receipts per year; or (C) Tier three: has 300 or fewer employees or $30 million or less in gross receipts per year.

(3) “ Small business ” means a business which is independently owned and operated and:

(A) Tier one: has ten or fewer employees or $1 million or less in gross receipts per year;

(A) Tier one: has ten or fewer employees or $1 million or less in gross receipts per year;

(B) Tier two: has 100 or fewer employees or $10 million or less in gross receipts per year; or

(B) Tier two: has 100 or fewer employees or $10 million or less in gross receipts per year; or

(C) Tier three: has 300 or fewer employees or $30 million or less in gross receipts per year.

(C) Tier three: has 300 or fewer employees or $30 million or less in gross receipts per year.
O.C.G.A. § 50-26-7 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 26 / Section 50-26-7
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-26-7
Status: in_force

(a) The powers of the authority shall be vested in the members of the board of directors in office from time to time; and a majority of members in office shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business and for the exercise of any power or function of the authority.

(a) The powers of the authority shall be vested in the members of the board of directors in office from time to time; and a majority of members in office shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business and for the exercise of any power or function of the authority.

(b) Action may be taken and motions and resolutions adopted by the board at any meeting thereof by the affirmative vote of a majority of present and voting board members.

(b) Action may be taken and motions and resolutions adopted by the board at any meeting thereof by the affirmative vote of a majority of present and voting board members.

(c) No vacancy in the membership of the board shall impair the right of the members to exercise all the powers and perform all duties of the board.

(c) No vacancy in the membership of the board shall impair the right of the members to exercise all the powers and perform all duties of the board.
O.C.G.A. § 50-17-52 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 17 / Section 50-17-52
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-17-52
Status: in_force

The board shall make with depositories the most advantageous contracts for interest to be paid by them to the state for the use of the state's money which may be deposited therein, as provided by this article. In so doing, the board may authorize the state treasurer to negotiate with depositories explicit fees in payment for the state's banking services. Such fees shall be paid by the state treasurer from interest earned and shall be subject to the board's approval. In the event any depository so named shall refuse to make a satisfactory contract with the board as to interest to be paid and fees to be charged, it shall have authority to remove state funds from such depository.
O.C.G.A. § 50-5-138 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 5 / Section 50-5-138
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-5-138
Status: in_force

(a) The Department of Administrative Services shall contract with the central nonprofit agency to pay a fee to such agency on the basis of contracts procured from the state. This fee shall be not less than 5 percent nor more than 8 percent of the total contract fee awarded for a particular project. The fees will be added to the fair market price paid by the state agencies and political subdivisions or will be paid from assessments received from the state agencies and political subdivisions by the Department of Administrative Services. The timeliness and methodology of collection of these fees will be decided upon between the Department of Administrative Services and the central nonprofit agency and shall be incorporated into such contract.

(a) The Department of Administrative Services shall contract with the central nonprofit agency to pay a fee to such agency on the basis of contracts procured from the state. This fee shall be not less than 5 percent nor more than 8 percent of the total contract fee awarded for a particular project. The fees will be added to the fair market price paid by the state agencies and political subdivisions or will be paid from assessments received from the state agencies and political subdivisions by the Department of Administrative Services. The timeliness and methodology of collection of these fees will be decided upon between the Department of Administrative Services and the central nonprofit agency and shall be incorporated into such contract.

(b) The commissioner of administrative services retains the right to cancel or modify contracts which have been selected for procurement under this part for nonperformance and noncompetitive pricing reasons.

(b) The commissioner of administrative services retains the right to cancel or modify contracts which have been selected for procurement under this part for nonperformance and noncompetitive pricing reasons.

(c) All contracts which presently exist between the State of Georgia and community based rehabilitation programs and training centers in Georgia, including the State of Georgia administered Georgia Industries for the Blind, shall be grandfathered in perpetuity, excepting for nonperformance reasons according to the policies, regulations, and determination of the Department of Administrative Services.

(c) All contracts which presently exist between the State of Georgia and community based rehabilitation programs and training centers in Georgia, including the State of Georgia administered Georgia Industries for the Blind, shall be grandfathered in perpetuity, excepting for nonperformance reasons according to the policies, regulations, and determination of the Department of Administrative Services.
O.C.G.A. § 50-5-122 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 5 / Section 50-5-122
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-5-122
Status: in_force

(a) The legislative intent of this part is declared to be as follows: The most important element of the American economic system of private enterprise is free and vigorous competition. Only through the existence of free and vigorous competition can free entry into business and opportunities for personal initiative and individual achievement be assured. The preservation and expansion of such competition is essential for our economic well-being. In order to encourage such competition, it is the declared policy of the state to ensure that a fair proportion of the total purchases and contracts or subcontracts for property, commodities, and services for the state be placed with Georgia resident businesses and small businesses so long as the commodities and services of small businesses are competitive as to price and quality.

(a) The legislative intent of this part is declared to be as follows: The most important element of the American economic system of private enterprise is free and vigorous competition. Only through the existence of free and vigorous competition can free entry into business and opportunities for personal initiative and individual achievement be assured. The preservation and expansion of such competition is essential for our economic well-being. In order to encourage such competition, it is the declared policy of the state to ensure that a fair proportion of the total purchases and contracts or subcontracts for property, commodities, and services for the state be placed with Georgia resident businesses and small businesses so long as the commodities and services of small businesses are competitive as to price and quality.

(b) The department shall be authorized to effectuate the legislative intent as set forth in this Code section.

(b) The department shall be authorized to effectuate the legislative intent as set forth in this Code section.

(c) Every state agency, office, board, bureau, commission, public corporation, institution, authority, or other entity of this state, including but not limited to the Department of Labor and the Department of Revenue, is authorized to provide data related to Georgia resident businesses and small businesses to the department, subject to any confidentiality requirements otherwise provided by law, to be utilized for the purpose of effectuating the legislative intent as set forth in this Code section.

(c) Every state agency, office, board, bureau, commission, public corporation, institution, authority, or other entity of this state, including but not limited to the Department of Labor and the Department of Revenue, is authorized to provide data related to Georgia resident businesses and small businesses to the department, subject to any confidentiality requirements otherwise provided by law, to be utilized for the purpose of effectuating the legislative intent as set forth in this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 50-3-5 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 3 / Section 50-3-5
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-3-5
Status: in_force

The flags of the Georgia troops who served in the army of the Confederate States, and which have been returned to the state by the United States government, shall be preserved for all time in the capitol as priceless mementos of the cause they represented and of the heroism and patriotism of the men who bore them.
O.C.G.A. § 50-18-35 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 18 / Section 50-18-35
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-18-35
Status: in_force

During the term of his contract, the publisher shall maintain the means to reproduce any volume published during the term of the contract at a time subsequent to the printing of that volume.
O.C.G.A. § 50-4-2 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 4 / Section 50-4-2
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-4-2
Status: in_force

For its internal structure, each department shall adhere to the following standard terms:

(1) The principal unit of a department is a division. Each division shall be headed by a director or deputy, except as otherwise provided; and

(1) The principal unit of a department is a division. Each division shall be headed by a director or deputy, except as otherwise provided; and

(2) The principal unit of a division is a section. Each section shall be headed by a supervisor.

(2) The principal unit of a division is a section. Each section shall be headed by a supervisor.
O.C.G.A. § 50-12-42 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 12 / Section 50-12-42
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-12-42
Status: in_force

The purpose of this article is:

(1) To promote the health and physical fitness of the citizens of this state;

(1) To promote the health and physical fitness of the citizens of this state;

(2) To promote participation in amateur sports by citizens of all ages and skill levels;

(2) To promote participation in amateur sports by citizens of all ages and skill levels;

(3) To promote a state-wide program of amateur athletic competition, culminating in state championship competitions; and

(3) To promote a state-wide program of amateur athletic competition, culminating in state championship competitions; and

(4) To promote state, national, and international amateur sports through the establishment of Olympic training facilities within the state.

(4) To promote state, national, and international amateur sports through the establishment of Olympic training facilities within the state.
O.C.G.A. § 50-23-29 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 23 / Section 50-23-29
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-23-29
Status: in_force

The authority may promulgate and adopt rules and regulations to carry out the purposes of this part.
O.C.G.A. § 50-9-14 — GA Code / Title 50 / Chapter 9 / Section 50-9-14
Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-9-14
Status: in_force

Any action to protect or enforce any rights under this article and Article 2 of this chapter shall be brought in the Superior Court of Fulton County, and any action pertaining to validation of any bonds issued under this article and Article 2 of this chapter shall likewise be brought in such court which shall have exclusive, original jurisdiction of such actions.