Georgia House Passes Ethan's Law to End Out-of-State Reunification Camps

In a bustling State Capitol, the Georgia House of Representatives convened for Session Day 23, where a series of significant discussions unfolded, highlighting the state's commitment to its youth, veterans, and community initiatives. The day began with a warm welcome to guests, including scouts from across Georgia, who were honored for their contributions to youth development.

Among the notable recognitions was a tribute to two young innovators from Panter Elementary, Anna Borsch and Neli Kleiner, who created an app to assist visually impaired individuals in grocery stores. Their achievement in the Georgia Tech K-12 InVenture Prize competition was celebrated as a testament to the potential of Georgia's youth.

The session also marked PACE Center for Girls Day, where representatives acknowledged the center's vital role in providing educational and life skills support to young girls. This was followed by a heartfelt recognition of Georgia CASA, an organization dedicated to advocating for children in foster care, emphasizing the importance of community support for vulnerable populations.

As the day progressed, the House addressed several legislative measures, including House Bill 115, aimed at tackling the issue of abandoned vessels along Georgia's coast. This bill seeks to empower the Department of Natural Resources with the necessary tools to hold individuals accountable for abandoning boats, a practice that burdens taxpayers with cleanup costs.

Another significant piece of legislation discussed was House Bill 108, which aims to protect veterans seeking benefits from deceptive practices by claims consultants. This bill establishes guidelines to ensure veterans are informed of their rights and the free services available to them, while also capping fees charged by consultants.

The session concluded with a powerful discussion on House Bill 253, known as Ethan's Law, which seeks to end the practice of sending children to out-of-state reunification camps. This bill aims to protect children and uphold parental rights, ensuring that families receive support within Georgia's borders.

As the representatives moved through the agenda, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose and community spirit, reflecting the ongoing commitment of Georgia's lawmakers to address pressing issues and support the state's most vulnerable citizens. The day served as a reminder of the power of collaboration and advocacy in shaping a brighter future for all Georgians.