Gov. Burt Jones, a Republican, held a news conference at the Georgia Capitol alongside some Senate Republicans, where he outlined his plans to cut government regulations on businesses and give lawmakers more power over state agencies. Jones expressed his belief that reducing burdensome regulations and eliminating red tape would greatly benefit businesses in the state.

One of the proposals put forward by Jones is a bill that aims to make it easier for individuals convicted of crimes to obtain government occupational licenses. Under the proposed bill, agencies would only be able to disqualify applicants for certain serious crimes or crimes directly related to the occupation they are pursuing. Additionally, agencies would be required to publish a list of these disqualifying crimes, allowing individuals to determine in advance if their old conviction would hinder their career prospects. Senate bill 157, which encompasses this proposal, had previously passed the Senate with unanimous approval but encountered obstacles in the state House. However, there is hope that the bill could be revisited when the second year of the legislative term begins in January.

In addition to the bill addressing occupational licenses, Georgia senators are also examining the possibility of eliminating licenses for certain fields or reducing license requirements. Senator Larry Walker III, a Perry Republican, argued that such regulations disproportionately affect lower-income professions and lead to increased consumer costs. Specifically, he mentioned the potential abolition of the requirement for certain makeup artists to obtain a state cosmetology license.

Jones also expressed his desire to empower state lawmakers by allowing them to request an analysis of how much a proposed law would cost businesses, similar to the current ability to request a fiscal note on the cost to the state. Moreover, he aims to raise the threshold for special treatment of small businesses under state agencies from 100 employees to 300. According to state law, small businesses should receive easier compliance and reporting for rules that may impose financial burdens or be exempt from them.

Despite providing comprehensive details on his plans to cut regulations and empower lawmakers, Jones' office did not respond to inquiries regarding his proposal for stronger legislative oversight and review of state agency regulations.

It is worth noting that Jones' announcement is part of a series of moves he has been making in preparation for the 2024 legislative session. These actions are seen as an attempt to establish a conservative record, which could be beneficial if he decides to run for governor in 2026 against other Republicans. In addition to his efforts to reduce regulations, Jones has also proposed a $10,000 supplement for teachers who undergo firearms training and advocated for restrictions on social media use by minors.

Overall, Lt. Gov. Burt Jones' plans to cut government regulations on businesses and enhance legislative oversight over state agencies have sparked discussions and drawn attention as Georgia approaches the 2024 legislative session. The proposed bill on occupational licenses, the potential elimination of licenses for certain fields, and the desire to empower state lawmakers highlight Jones' commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and positioning himself as a conservative leader in the state.