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Committee approves bill to create GBI searchable registry for repeat domestic‑violence offenders
Summary
The Judiciary committee passed House Bill 11‑42 to create a state registry of repeat domestic‑violence offenders convicted after 2027; survivors and service providers testified the tool could save lives, while discussion touched on privacy protections and an estimated $3.5–4 million start‑up cost for the GBI.
Representative Hagen presented House Bill 11‑42, which would require the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to maintain a searchable registry of individuals convicted two or more times of defined domestic‑violence offenses after Jan. 1, 2027.
The author emphasized that the registry is intended to be a narrowly tailored public‑safety tool: an offender would be placed on the registry only after a court order and would roll off after specified periods (five years after two convictions, 10 years after three or more). The presenter said information would exclude addresses and limit what is published to avoid unintended consequences for victims living with offenders.
Several survivors and advocates spoke in support. Zareta Reyes Garcia recounted abuse beginning at 17 and said a registry could have been a lifesaving warning: "This registry can save women," she testified. Shelter directors and advocates said the registry would help identify repeat offenders who move jurisdictions and create a more complete record for victims and courts. The Georgia Public Defender Council asked for careful language around compelled disclosure and attorney‑client privilege; the author and committee discussed amendments and oversight mechanisms.
Committee members asked about cost and logistics; the presenter said GBI estimated establishing the registry would cost between $3.5 million and $4 million. After questions and public testimony, the committee moved and passed the bill; the transcript records a unanimous voice vote.
Why it matters: Supporters said a searchable registry makes repeat offending visible across jurisdictions and could help victims, advocates and courts make more informed safety decisions. Critics and some members urged careful protection of victims’ privacy and procedural safeguards for due process.
Next step: The bill was advanced by the committee and will proceed to the next stage.
