Peach Tree Times

Today marks the beginning of Georgia's 89th legislative session. Lawmakers will convene for swearing-in ceremonies and leadership votes as they commence their duties.

Rosario Palacios, executive director for Common Cause Georgia, emphasized the importance of this session in a statement: "The start of every session is an opportunity for elected officials to meet the needs of Georgia voters with their lawmaking and fiscal duties. Legislators should offer the government transparency voters are asking for in every step of the civic process and strive to increase participation in our democracy."

Palacios outlined the organization's focus during this period: "While legislators decide their priority areas these next few months, our focus as an organization is clear: Common Cause Georgia will be advocating for accessible voting rights, voting rights restoration, and government transparency throughout our legislative processes. We’ll also watch for Georgia legislators to enact protections for voters from last minute policy changes that disrupt and dissuade electoral participation."

She added that Common Cause Georgia aims to prevent restrictive voter ID and absentee voting laws by engaging volunteers and coalition partners: "We know well how these types of measures jeopardize voting rights in Georgia and stifle voters’ voices at the ballot box."

The organization intends to hold legislators accountable in various areas: "This legislative session, we plan to keep legislators accountable to all Georgians and advance democracy in the areas of election reform, money in politics, and voter access."

On Tuesday, January 14 at 12:00 p.m. ET, Common Cause’s state leaders will host a press briefing titled Protecting Democracy in the South. This event will address voting rights concerns and provide legislative updates concerning southern states including Georgia.