DELIVERING RESULTS FOR CHEROKEE COUNTY
press releases, News Articles, and latest Developments
I have been diligently working at the Capitol to tackle several critical issues. My focus has been on fostering responsible growth, safeguarding election integrity by penalizing deep fakes, easing the regulatory burden and fees on small businesses, and finding a solution for high property taxes. Additionally, I have worked towards ensuring that the teaching of Critical Race Theory is NOT allowed in public schools. While my tenure has been busy, I am determined to continue my efforts and achieve even more in the future.
Senior Property Tax Relief Becomes Law
On May 21, 2024, Cherokee voters approved a referendum to remove the school portion of the property tax for homesteaded residents aged 62 and older. Individuals moving to Cherokee on or after January 1, 2025, will need five years of homesteaded residency to be eligible for the exemption. If all owners on the deed are not on the homestead exemption you must contact the Tax Assessor's Office by no later than April 1, 2025. I have put a link to the Cherokee tax assessor's office for more information.
Association County Commissioners of Georgia, Awards Rep. Brad Thomas with 2023 Legislative Service Award
The ACCG selected Rep. Thomas for his legislative efforts to balance the rights of both property owners and local governing bodies. During the 2023 legislative session, Rep. Thomas introduced House Bill 374, legislation that addresses a long-standing ACCG policy by allowing property owners to de-annex from a city without the city having unilateral veto authority over the de-annexation. This legislation also included safeguards for cities, including the ability for a city to object to a de-annexation if it harms the public’s health, safety, and welfare.
Rep. Thomas Presents House Bill 986: Artificial Intelligence
Transparency and Protection Act
While Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an incredible tool, it's crucial to have sensible regulations on its use in political campaigns; HB 986's aim is to do just that. This prohibits campaigns and untraceable money groups from intentionally creating false, but realistic, portrayals of someone else with the goal of unduly influencing an election. It is important to note that this legislation only applies to campaigns and campaign organizations, not to regular citizens. It only pertains to false depictions of another person, and never to satire or content that any reasonable person can tell is fake. This law exclusively targets career politicians and political operatives, making it an obvious choice.
Stopping Critical Race Theory
GEORGIA CHARTER SCHOOL ASSOCIATION AWARDS CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN AWARD TO
REP. BRAD THOMAS
"We are grateful for Rep. Thomas' unwavering dedication to Georgia’s children," said Tony Roberts, President and CEO of the Georgia Charter Schools Association. "His leadership and support have improved funding, resources, and access to Georgia’s public charter schools and benefited more than 62,000 students across the state."
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