New Laws Go into Affect
Tony Potts
07-01-2009
July 1 always brings new laws into effect. This year is no different.
Several laws went into effect including, a measure that seeks to
celebrate the Confederacy while also honoring a civil rights
leader; tighter rules targeting a long-time scourge of cotton
farmers; and a pair of new laws long sought by prosecutors as a
way to strengthen victim`s rights.
Georgia law has long required the victims to testify in person
and without any emotion about the crime`s impact. The new law,
supporters say, will mean that they will not be silenced again.
Another measure that goes into effect gives victims who have
suffered a mental injury broader access to state-funded
counseling and therapy services. The law previously extended that
help only to victims who suffered a physical injury.
MARTA could also get a boost under a new law that allows transit
systems to allow food and beverages to be consumed in rail and
bus stations, effectively allowing them to earn more revenue
by selling food and drinks.
A measure that tightens requirements on Georgia`s boll weevil eradication program takes effect, as does a law that would allow children of active duty military personnel stationed in Georgia to meet the residency requirements of the state`s popular HOPE scholarship program.
Finally, month of April is being named as `Confederate History and
Heritage Month` in Georgia.
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