As we reached the halfway point in the 2007 session, we paused to pay respect to a great Georgian, Congressman Charlie Norwood.  By now, I am sure that most of you have heard the news of his passing on February 13.  Rep. Norwood served seven terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, from 1995-2007, representing most of east Georgia at some point during his congressional career.  He was a hugely popular man, who was respected by virtually everyone in Georgia politics.  He won re-election every year since 1998 by landslide margins, and was again elected to the 110^th Congress last November.  Congressman Norwood leaves behind a legacy of great work on the issues of healthcare reform and education for the citizens of this state.  The news of his death was especially difficult for my wife Jill and I.  Congressman Norwood urged me to run for the Senate in 2004.  He was a great supporter during my campaign, and he endorsed me for the state Senate.  He also was a guest of honor at our campaign kick-off event.  All of the flags on state buildings are at half mast, as we pay our condolences to Rep. Norwood and his family.  He was a great man and a great public servant.

In other Senate-related news, I am pleased to report that a bill I've sponsored has now passed overwhelmingly and heads to the House for consideration.  Senate Bill 87 aims to incorporate the use of "RV friendly" markers on specific signs for business establishments that cater to the needs of persons driving recreational vehicles.  By directing the Georgia DOT to get this process started, we are not only helping families in Georgia, but we are also supporting the growing RV-tourism industry, which will bring needed tourism dollars to our state.

Another bill I have sponsored, SB 81 is now working its way through the legislative process, and hopefully will come up for a vote in the Senate soon.  The legislation will provide for a special license plate commemorating 100 years of boy scouting, and provide that a portion of the funds generated by the sale of these plates will be disbursed to the Boy Scouts of America.  I strongly feel that scouting has always carried with it a special significance, which leads a young man to further success in higher education, business or industry and community service.  As an Eagle Scout, I feel it's extremely important that we preserve the scouting heritage and values for generations to come.

One more bill of interest is SB 92, which will benefit consumers by directing the Department of Revenue to collect, compile and maintain retail sales tax data showing separately retail sales made within each county, as well as showing separately retail sales made within the limits of a municipality.  By doing this, the Department will be able to more accurately track the amount of tax that each local entity is paying.  SB 92 has passed the Senate Finance Committee and should come to a floor vote soon.

Also passed in the state Senate this week was:

• SB 1 - A bill making it unlawful for persons required to register as sexual offenders to take any photographs of a minor.
• SB 9 - A measure providing that teachers cannot be coerced into changing a students grade.  The legislation is otherwise known as the Grade Integrity Act of 2007.
• SB 23 - Legislation that allows the State Board of Pardons and Paroles to inquire into and consider the legality of a prisoner's presence in the U.S. when making parole decisions.
• SR 123 - A Senate Resolution urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to study the costs and effects of raising the water level of Lake Lanier about two feet.

We are halfway through with the 2007 legislative session, and there is still a great deal we aim to accomplish this year.  Remember to contact me in my office on the issues that are affecting you and your area.