House passes bill to extend Administrative Procedures Act oversight to state agencies

Chairman Allen Powell presented House Bill 903, saying the measure would make every state agency, board and authority subject to the Georgia Administrative Procedures Act so that rulemaking would be subject to the same notice and review mechanisms as other administrative actions.

Powell framed the bill as a matter of legislative authority and oversight, saying: "It's about your rights as an elected legislator" and urging members to scrutinize rules and regulations that have the effect of law. He described the bill as clarifying existing processes — hearings, secretary of state publication, and committee review — and said the measure was intended to ensure that agencies' rules align with legislative intent.

Members asked about the veto process and practical oversight after adjournment; Powell said an override would require extraordinary measures and suggested constitutional adjustments could be discussed in the future. After extended floor discussion that included multiple questioners and supporters, the House passed the bill (yeas 168, nays 3).