Tree-cutting billboard law on hold
Georgia trees on the chopping block got a respite this week after a Muscogee County judge put on hold a new law that allows billboard owners to clear-cut trees that block their signs. Superior Court Judge Frank Jordan ruled that the issues in the court case need to be decided before the state starts issuing the new cutting permits.
Environmentalists and civic boosters are suing, saying the state can't constitutionally give up its property, state-owned trees, for little in return. Billboard owners say billboards do provide value in return.
Billboard owners had long fought for the right to clear-cut before the bill passed last year.
About the Author
Ariel Hart is a reporter on health care issues. She works on the AJC’s health team and has reported on subjects including the Voting Rights Act and transportation.
