Peach Tree Times

Sen. Chuck Payne (R–Dalton) recently participated in the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Youth Site Visit on Community-Based Models in San Diego, California. The two-day event focused on community-based juvenile justice models and brought together legislators from across the country to explore innovative approaches to supporting and rehabilitating youth. Sen. Payne was one of 10 state legislators nationwide selected to attend.

Having worked nearly 30 years within the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, Sen. Payne has long advocated for juvenile justice reform. During the site visit, he engaged directly with the Foundation’s programs, which empower youth through music, technology, and education, providing a model for effective community-based interventions.

Sen. Payne spoke about this opportunity, stating, “It was an honor to represent Georgia at this impactful event and to learn from the David’s Harp Foundation, which is doing extraordinary work with at-risk youth. I look forward to applying the lessons learned during the conference to continue making Georgia a safer, more supportive place for our youth. This experience only strengthens my commitment to juvenile justice reform and ensuring that every young person in our state has the opportunity to succeed.”

Sen. Chuck Payne serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Military and Homeland Security. He represents the 54th Senate District, which includes Whitfield and Murray County, as well as part of Gordon County. He may be reached at 404-463-5402 or by email at chuck.payne@senate.ga.gov.

For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.