Lt. Governor Burt Jones Backs Georgia’s Veterans Community; Senate Passes Veterans Package

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 21, 2024

ATLANTA | Today, Lt. Governor Burt Jones’s veterans legislative priority package passed the Senate. Senate Bills 375, 385, and 398, along with Senate Resolution 527 were all passed to help address the educational, mental health, and housing needs of Georgia’s veterans.

“It is a priority of mine to highlight and improve the needs of our veteran community,” said Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones. “This legislative package makes great advancements in assisting veterans through increased educational and workforce opportunities as well as expanded mental health and housing services. While Georgia can never fully repay our veterans and their families for the sacrifices they have made, this legislative package is a step in the right direction to ensure that this community’s needs are met.”

Senate Bill 375 - Adds the Commissioner of Veterans Service to the Behavioral Health Coordinating Council. Sponsored by Senator Brian Strickland (R – McDonough).

Senate Bill 385 – Expands degree options for Georgia Military College. Sponsored by Senator Rick Williams (R – Milledgeville).

Senate Bill 398 – Reforms Georgia Joint Defense Commission to help grow Georgia’s defense industry. Sponsored by Senator Kay Kirkpatrick (R – Marietta).

Senate Resolution 527 – Establishes a Senate Study Committee on Veterans Mental Health and Housing. Sponsored by Senator Chuck Payne (R – Dalton).