Senate cuts DOT pollution exemptions from bill

A proposal that would have exempted the state Department of Transportation and its contractors from some fines involving pollution of Georgia's waterways died Monday in the state Senate.

Over the past decade, the DOT racked up $2 million in fines for allowing dirt and surface pollutants to run off construction projects and into the state's streams. It paid $800,000 of the fines while contractors settled the rest.

Senate Transportation Chairman Jeff Mullis, R-Chickamauga, added to a transportation omnibus bill a section that would give the department two passes when cited by environmental authorities and refer fines to a mediation committee. Environmental groups opposed the amendment, which also drew concerns from legislators.

When House Bill 137 came to the Senate floor for debate, Sen. Steve Gooch, R-Dahlonega, amended the bill to remove the controversial provisions. Gooch is a former DOT board member. The amended bill passed 52-1.

About the Author

Georgia State Election Board rule on paper ballots fails in tie vote

The State Election Board on Wednesday failed to pass a rule that would establish qualifying circumstances under which Georgia's touchscreen voting system could be eliminated.

Who will replace Marjorie Taylor Greene in Congress?

Now that U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has announced her plans to resign, attention turns to who might replace her in Georgia's 14th Congressional District.

Firebrand state senator running for Marjorie Taylor Greene’s seat

State Sen. Colton Moore, R-Trenton, announced plans to seek the 14th District seat, although it wasn't clear whether he will run in a special election or in November.

The Latest

Credit: arvin.temkar@ajc.com