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GA SB204

GA SB204
Criminal Procedure; offenses that are not serious violent felonies, sexual felonies, or other certain offenses to be charged by accusation of the district attorney; allow


summary

Introduced
02/19/2025
In Committee
03/27/2025
Crossed Over
03/06/2025
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT To amend Titles 16 and 17 of Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to crimes and offenses and criminal procedure, respectively, so as to revise certain criminal provisions relating to the authorization of certain public officers and public entities; to revise standards for bringing an action against the government for an unauthorized act relating to regulation of weapons; to provide for definitions; to allow for offenses that are not serious violent felonies, sexual felonies, or other certain offenses to be charged by accusation of the district attorney; to provide for conditions; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

AI Summary

This bill amends Georgia law to allow district attorneys to charge individuals with certain felonies by accusation rather than requiring a grand jury indictment, provided the offenses are not serious violent felonies, sexual felonies, or violations related to racketeering, illegal gambling, or the regulation of weapons. The bill also clarifies definitions for "lawful weapons carrier" and "weapon" and modifies provisions related to lawsuits against government entities for unauthorized acts concerning weapons, expanding the standing for individuals to bring such actions and increasing potential damages. Additionally, it specifies conditions under which a district attorney can prefer accusations, including when a defendant has been bound over to superior court, waived a commitment hearing, or been released on bond pending a commitment hearing, while ensuring that all rights and responsibilities applicable to indicted cases also apply to cases brought by accusation.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (6)

Last Action

Senate Agreed House Amend or Sub (on 01/13/2026)

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