Bill > SR424

This resolution creates the Senate Study Committee on Franchise Fees to investigate issues related to electric utility franchise fees in unincorporated areas of the state. The committee will consist of five Senate members appointed by the Senate President, who will also designate the chairperson. The committee's primary purpose is to study the conditions, needs, and problems surrounding franchise fees, particularly focusing on large load electricity customers and how these customers are assessed fees for using county rights of way. Committee members will receive standard legislative allowances for up to five days, with potential for additional days, and funds will come from Senate appropriations. The committee is required to file a report with either specific findings, recommended legislation, or meeting minutes, which must be approved by a majority vote of the committee. The report must be filed with the Secretary of the Senate, and the committee will be automatically dissolved on December 1, 2025. The resolution is motivated by concerns that residents of unincorporated areas are paying franchise fees to cities where they do not reside, and that the economic value of utility rights of way is not being fully recognized for the benefit of counties and their residents.

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71482