Peach Tree Times

Gov. Brian Kemp recently announced that all Georgia public safety officials will be eligible for bonuses.

All eligible sworn law enforcement officials and first responders in Georgia are eligible to apply for a $1,000 pay supplement bonus, according to a news release. Instructions on how to apply for the bonuses are on the Office of Planning and Budget’s grant funding opportunities website and applications will be accepted through Dec. 31.

"Our law enforcement officials and first responders answered the call of duty and bravely served on the front line of our fight against COVID-19, despite the unprecedented challenges thrown their way," Kemp said in the release. "Working with Speaker Ralston and the General Assembly, today, we are taking yet another step in supporting our men and women in uniform and first responders by providing this well-deserved bonus. Like they do every day, these heroic Georgians ran toward the COVID-19 crisis and put their lives on the line to protect others. My family and the state of Georgia deeply appreciate all they do. Thank you!"

Applications for the payments are open to state, local or education entity sworn law enforcement; criminal investigators and detectives; probation and parole officers; career firefighters, emergency medical technicians and paramedics; sheriffs and deputies; correctional and jail officers; bailiffs, fish and game wardens; 911 communications officers or dispatchers.

"Yesterday, I was proud to stand with @GovKemp, @SpeakerRalston & members of our law enforcement community as the governor announced $1,000 bonuses for sworn law enforcement officials & first responders in GA. Thank you to those who keep our communities safe & secure!" Georgia State Rep. Jan Jones (R-Milton) wrote in a Sept. 28 Twitter post.

Funding for these bonus payments was made available by the American Rescue Plan Act.