Contingency plans approved Monday will allow Georgia lawmakers to cancel session days as needed if this week’s weather turns icy, as expected.
An amended calendar resolution passed by both the House and Senate gives leaders the authority to make the call if they think conditions are unsafe. Forecasts call for possible icy conditions overnight Monday into Tuesday, and then for freezing rain and snow Tuesday night into Wednesday.
House Majority Leader Larry O’Neal, R-Bonaire, said the resolution allows the Legislature to avoid “burning days” with no work getting done. Limited to 40 days a year, lawmakers are concerned that missing several more days due to weather will cause a crunch. They missed two days two weeks ago because of a snowstorm that iced up and jammed the region’s interstates.
Tuesday is scheduled to be Day 21 on the calendar. Leaders were hopeful they could get it in, although they also seemed resigned to the power of Mother Nature.
“I am doubtful we will be here on Wednesday,” said Senate Majority Leader Ronnie Chance, R-Tyrone.
House Speaker David Ralston, R-Blue Ridge, said the first consideration in any decision “will be for the safety of the members of this body and our staff.”
About the Author
