Speaker of the House David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) has appointed people to study where the state has a shortage of workers in certain fields and whether HOPE scholarship adjustments to students in those fields could help eliminate the shortages. His appointments include:

• Rep. Amy Carter (R-Valdosta), Chairman

• Rep. Gerald Greene (R-Cuthbert)

• Rep. Craig Gordon (D-Savannah)

• Rep. Terry Rogers (R-Clarkesville)

As well as:

• Mr. Tracy Ireland, Associate Vice Chancellor, University System of Georgia

• Mr. Phil Smith, Chief Operating Officer, Technical College System of Georgia

• Ms. Tricia Chastain, President, Georgia Student Finance Commission