On April 25th almost 80 Georgia credit union advocates convened at the state Capitol for the 11th annual State GAC. This was the largest group ever for this event, and was a “do-over” from January, as it was originally put on hold due to a potential threat of snow that closed of all state offices. But while rescheduled, this alternate date could not have been more enjoyable! The weather was perfect, but beyond that, this post-session date provided the unique window to have a complete state session wrap of all the issues of note to credit unions, and where things stand for the future. Given the multiple twists and turns this state legislative session has taken and the multiple statewide issues (some quite controversial), it was a good opportunity for a quick wrap-up to gain insight into the madness!
Sharing their insight during the day included:
- Phil Kent, CEO and Publisher of Insider Advantage and regular panelist on the Fox5 TV show “The Georgia Gang” with a deep dive into the new leadership of Georgia, the new political dynamics of the state, post-election thoughts and trends, and the unfolding legislative agenda of both parties and the potential impact on businesses
- Commissioner of the Department of Banking and Finance Kevin Hagler and Deputy Commissioner Melissa Sneed on what credit unions can anticipate from the Department and the state legislative process in the upcoming year
- Atlanta Journal-Constitution veteran political reporter Jim Galloway on his perspective of covering the Capitol, what political forces are in play, and how those impact the state
- Speaker of the House Chief of Staff Spiro Amburn for personal insight into the leadership of the state, how the budget process works, and what it takes (and takes out of you) to be a legislator.
- Senate President Pro Tem Butch Miller (R-Gainesville) on the state legislative session and his viewpoints from this top leadership role in the Senate
- House Minority Caucus Chairman James Beverly (D-Macon) on the legislative process and the focus of the Democratic Caucus in the House
The day also unfolded with some fun surprises, from the magazines, to the advance insight into who will (and won’t) run for U.S. Senate, and private access into the Senate Chambers complete with individual gavel pictures, thanks to Sen. Miller! This event only comes around once a year and is held specifically to put credit unions in direct contact with the movers and shakers in the political world. Our thanks to all the attendees who made the day the best yet.
