Governor Brian P. Kemp has signed three legislative bills aimed at providing relief to Georgia’s agriculture and forestry sectors, particularly benefiting those affected by Hurricane Helene. The signing took place in Atlanta with First Lady Marty Kemp, Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, Georgia Forestry Commission Director Johnny Sabo, constitutional officers, and members of the Georgia General Assembly in attendance.
“Our farmers and foresters are tough people,” stated Governor Kemp. “Their commitment to moving forward after all they’ve faced is an inspiration to us all. There is still more work to be done, but I’m proud to sign these bills and deliver on our promises to the men and women who are the backbone of our state. I’m also grateful for the dedicated efforts of all of our partners in the General Assembly whose steadfast leadership and determination helped make today possible.”
House Bill 223 was a priority for Governor Kemp. It exempts federal crop loss payments and disaster payments from state income tax, establishes a reforestation tax credit for timber producers impacted by the storm, allows local governments to temporarily suspend their collection of harvest tax on timber producers during cleanup efforts, and adds a temporary provision to the Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption (GATE) for building materials needed for repairing agricultural structures.
Senate Bill 201 aims to provide increased consumer protection when entering contracts with contractors following natural disasters. House Bill 143 shifts responsibility for agricultural water metering equipment installation and maintenance back to the state from farmers.
Governor Kemp expressed his gratitude towards everyone involved in making this legislation possible.
