Senator Rogers - First Elected Official in Georgia to Sign ATR Letter Urging President Obama to Stop Plan to Regulate the Internet

 WOODSTOCK (July 9, 2010)  - “If Obamacare, cap & tax, filing suit against the state of Arizona, $1.3 Trillion annual deficit, and Elena Kagan weren’t enough, now the President has decided to use the FCC to attempt and regulate the Internet. Will this madness ever stop?” said Senator Chip Rogers, Republican Majority Leader of the Georgia Senate. “The Internet has become one of the greatest tools of information and efficiency in human history. It has done so precisely because government does not regulate it. All Americans, regardless of political party, must tell the Obama administration this plan goes too far. Keep government hands off the Internet.”

Americans for Tax Reform (ATR)are leading an effort to have all elected officials sign a letter opposing the Obama administration plan to regulate the Internet.

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT, U.S. CONGRESS, AND FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION URGING OPPOSITION TO INTERNET REGULATION
We the undersigned, representing millions of American citizens, write in strong opposition to the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) effort to regulate the Internet.

Over the past 25 years, the Internet has flourished in large part due to the extremely limited role that government has played.  In less than a decade, the private sector has expanded broadband Internet access to over 95 percent of American households.  Since 2004, the price to access the Internet has dropped by 23 percent, while during the same period overall consumer prices have trended upward.
Despite universal acknowledgement that Americans enjoy a free, open, and vibrant Internet, the FCC is relentlessly pursuing a massive regulatory regime that would stifle broadband expansion, create congestion, slow Internet speeds, jeopardize job retention and growth, and lead to higher prices for consumers.

We oppose the FCC’s effort to regulate the Internet under Title II of the Communications Act of 1934, which was written during the depression era to regulate telephone monopolies – 60 years before the Internet was ever conceived.  These proposed regulations would permit the FCC to dictate how the networks that serve as the backbone of the Internet are managed, thereby removing incentives for further investment and opening the door for price setting or future regulatory action.  It could also remove the ability for parents to prevent inappropriate material from entering the home.  This regulatory “reclassification” would effectively turn innovative private Internet services into a public utility.

Earlier this year, a U.S. Court of Appeals found that the Commission was attempting to “shatter” the bounds of its legal authority by trying to enact Net Neutrality regulations without Congressional authority.  We view this renewed effort by the FCC to reclassify the Internet under Title II as even more unfounded and onerous.

By pursuing Title II reclassification, the Commission is turning its back on years of precedent set by multiple U.S. Congresses, presidential administrations, the FCC’s own rulings, and the U.S. Supreme Court, which all found that the Internet should remain unregulated.  Even more disconcerting, the Commission’s actions show complete disdain for strong bipartisan opposition voiced by a vast majority in Congress and the American people.

Placing the nation’s 21st century communications system under a pre-World War II law is the wrong approach to continuing broadband Internet expansion and adoption.  The Internet has never been a regulated utility and we urge you to keep it that way by rejecting so-called “Net Neutrality” regulations on the Internet and the proposed Title II reclassification.

 

Senator Rogers awarded the Golden Shovel
Legislator of the Year Award

WOODSTOCK (July 7, 2010) – The Georgia Utilities Contractors Association, Inc. (GUCA) has awarded their prestigious 2010 Golden Shovel Legislative Service Award to Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock).

“I am truly honored to accept this award from GUCA. The utility contractors are a
vital part to Georgia’s economy. They provide good high-paying jobs to tens of
thousands of Georgians. The state needs to do all we can to ensure Georgia is a place where contractors can grow their businesses and create even more jobs. The men and women of GUCA believe in free markets and competition. I stand with them.” said Rogers.

GUCA stated that Senator Rogers was selected because of his long standing support for Georgia utility contractors and that he “played an integral role in passing favorable legislation for GUCA in the 2010 Legislative Session, including SB 339, GUCA’s legislation that allows utility contractor’s to directly bid on utility construction work…and specifically helped carry legislation to help reduce the property tax burden for heavy equipment operators.”

GUCA is a non-profit state trade association located in metro Atlanta. Representing more than 308 utility contractors and affiliated firms statewide, GUCA members provide the materials and workforce to build and maintain the state's network of water, sewer, gas, telecommunications and other utility
systems.

For more information about GUCA, please visit www.guca.com.

 

Senator Rogers named Legislator of the Year by the Technology Association of Georgia

WOODSTOCK (June 16, 2010) – The Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) has selected Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock) as their 2010 Legislator of the Year. Senator Rogers was instrumental in passing the Association’s key legislation this year including the Angel Investor Credit which is expected to make Georgia a national leader for investing technology start-up companies.

“I’m honored to be recognized by such a prestigious organization. The Technology Association of Georgia does so much to bring Georgia communities and businesses together while advancing Georgia’s technology sector.  Technology businesses will keep Georgia on the forefront of development, innovation and a stronger economy.  As legislators, we have a duty and responsibility do everything possible to cultivate a thriving business environment to lead our state to economic stability and strength,” said Rogers.

Rogers sponsored Angel Investor Income Tax Credit to encourage third-party investors to assist innovative, wealth-creating, and small or startup businesses in Georgia.  The total amount of allowable credits is up to $10 million per taxable year.  Incentives like these are proven to bring economic development to Georgia, which in turn creates high-paying private sector jobs.  The complete law can be found at http://www.legis.ga.gov/legis/2009_10/sum/hb1069.htm. 

The Technology Association of Georgia supports its members by generating opportunities for personal, professional and business growth. By forging these strategic alliances, TAG acts as a primary catalyst to foster a rich growth environment for technology development in Georgia. 

For more information on TAG, please visit their web site at http://www.tagonline.org/index.php.

 

Rogers Named Senator of the Year by Georgia Retailers

WOODSTOCK (June 8, 2010) – Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock) has been named Senator of the Year for 2010 by the Georgia Retail
Association (GRA) for his ongoing dedication to support Georgia businesses,
particularly retailers. 2010 marks the 4th time Senator Rogers has won this
prestigious award, more than any other legislator in state history.

“Hundreds of thousands of Georgia citizens are employed by retailers in our state. The retail industry is truly a major economic engine that drives Georgia’s economy. State government should do all we can to support our retailers so they in turn can create jobs and help grow our economy,” said Sen. Rogers. “It is a great honor to receive the industry’s highest legislative award. Together we will continue our efforts to make Georgia the best place in America to do business.”

Sen. Rogers was instrumental in passing pro-growth policies during the 2010 session aimed at creating a thriving business climate in Georgia. He is the Senate sponsor of the JOBS Act of 2010, which is considered by some to be the nation’s most pro-growth policy aimed directly at creating jobs and investors in Georgia. Senator Rogers also helped lead the way to eliminate the state nventory tax and the state portion of the property tax.

“Senator Rogers is the recognized leader in the General Assembly for supporting Georgia businesses,” said John Heavener, Executive Director of GRA, describes Sen. Rogers. “Rogers recognizes the significant role that retail plays in Georgia’s economic well-being, employing one-in-five workers and remitting nearly 42 percent of all state revenue.”

The Georgia Retail Association is the state’s largest retail organization and has represented the interests of retailers in Georgia for more than 40 years.

 

Senator Rogers’ Property Tax Overhaul Signed into Georgia Law

ATLANTA (June 4, 2010) – Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers’ (R-Woodstock)
much anticipated Property Tax Assessment and Appeals Reform Bill (SB346) was signed into law today by Gov. Sonny Perdue. The bill is aimed at
ensuring all Georgia properties are properly assessed at Fair Market Value
and that property owners have guaranteed rights to appeal.

“Georgia’s property tax system has been in desperate need of reform for decades. With the enactment of this law, property owners will be protected from unfair assessments and have a guaranteed right to appeal,” said Rogers. “Georgians ought to know that the system works for them, not against them. We have taken a major step today in protecting property owner rights, but the journey is not finished. I look forward to continuing this effort again next year and beyond.”

The overall reform includes more than 50 changes to current state law. Significant taxpayer friendly provisions include:
• Requirement that every property owner receive annual Notice of Assessment, which guarantees right to appeal
• Every Notice of Assessment must contain estimated property tax
• Expansion of appeal time-period from 30 to 45 days
• Alternative streamlined appeal option for property valued in excess of $1,000,000
• Automatic taxpayer victory on appeals when government fails to respond within 45 days

• Requirement that all relevant sales, including distress sales, be included when determining Fair Market Value
• Requirement that only “current use of property” be used in determining Fair Market Value
• Taxpayer must be given access to all data used in determining Fair Market Value
• Sales price establishes Fair Market Value for next tax year
SB 346 passed with overwhelming bi-partisan support in the Georgia Senate and House. The Property Tax Assessment and Appeals reform bill was a result of a 2009 study committee on property taxes.

A report of the study committee hearings can be found at
http://www.legis.ga.gov/legis/2009_10/senate/committeereports.htm

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Law Enforcement key to securing our Nation & Communities

ATLANTA (June 3, 2010) – Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock) released the following statement regarding the apprehension of three suspects that are suspected of being illegal aliens and possibly members of the 18th Street Gang:

"I want to personally thank Sheriff Garrison and Chief Bores for the outstanding work performed by their agencies. The arrest of these suspected illegal aliens on serious criminal charges highlights again why border enforcement and law enforcement remains the key to securing our nation and our communities. The idea that members of the violent 18th Street Gang may be living in and around our neighborhoods should send shockwaves through our community. We must continue to support these type law enforcement efforts and use all the tools at our disposal to combat illegal activities."

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department, working with the Woodstock Police Department and the FBI, yesterday released information that they apprehended the suspects and recovered during the search warrant two firearms, computers, printers, laminators, printing paper, as well as laminate with official seals of the United States and Mexican governments. Also recovered was approximately $15,725.00 cash and receipts indicating the suspects had sent more than $75,000.00 of their proceeds from this enterprise back to Mexico. Other evidence located at the apartment indicated this counterfeit operation was extensive and had been operating for some time.

 

Senator Rogers Sponsored Measure to Reform Georgia’s Tax System Becomes Law

WOODSTOCK (June 2, 2010) – Governor Sonny Perdue has signed into law House Bill 1405, legislation creating the Special Council on Tax Reform and Fairness for Georgians.  Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock) sponsored the legislation through the Senate.  The council will be charged with weeding through Georgia’s cumbersome tax system to bring balance, transparency and fairness to Georgia taxpayers.  Rogers will be one of 12 leaders selected to sit on the special tax reform committee.

"Georgians deserve a tax code for our 21st century economy; a system that encourages entrepreneurship, hard work, savings, and investment.  Our current tax system simply does not work for Georgia.  We have a personal income tax that punishes success with a top rate higher than Massachusetts. We have a corporate income tax that discourages good companies from moving to our state. And we have an unbalanced sales tax with hundreds of special exemptions. We can do better than this. Georgians deserve better than this," said Rogers.  “The Council will find ways to create a system that transparent, fair and balanced; a tax system that grows the economy not restricts it.”

The members of the council, as specified in the legislation, are Governor Perdue, Dr. David Sjoquist of Georgia State University, Dr. Jeffrey Humphreys of the University of Georgia, Dr. Roger Tutterow of Mercer University, Dr. Christine Ries of Georgia Tech, the 2010 chairperson of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the 2010 Georgia chairperson of the National Federation of Independent Business and two members each appointed by the Lt. Governor and Speaker of the House.

The Special Council on Tax Reform and Fairness for Georgian will conduct a study of the state’s current revenue structure.  Following their study, the Council will make a report of its finding and recommend legislation to the Lieutenant Governor, the Speaker of the House and the Special Joint Committee on Georgia Revenue Structure.  The Special Joint Committee will then write a bill which will be voted on by the General Assembly without amendments.

 

Rogers named Legislator of the Year by Georgia
Property Taxpayer Committee

ATLANTA (May 10, 2010) – The Georgia Property Taxpayer Committee has selected Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers (R - Woodstock) as their 2010 Legislator of the Year because of his dedication and service to Georgia’s property owners.

“We applaud Senator Rogers for his property tax reform bill (SB 346). He has given Georgia homeowners more rights with this one piece of legislation than the Georgia General Assembly has in the past ten years combined. Our selection of him as our Legislator of the Year is an obvious choice," said RJ Morris, President of the Georgia Property Taxpayers Committee.

Championed and authored by Rogers, the Property Tax Assessment and Appeals reform bill is aimed at ensuring all Georgia properties are properly assessed at Fair Market Value and that property owners have guaranteed rights to appeal. This is the most sweeping overhaul of the Georgia property tax system in decades.

“I’m honored to accept this award from the Georgia Property Taxpayers Committee. Their dedication to protecting property owners’ right to a fair and transparent tax system helped provide the General Assembly with valuable information as Senate Bill 346 was written and moved through the legislative
process. While the passing of this bill was a triumph for Georgia’s property owners, this is just the first step in reforming the entire tax system,” said Rogers.

The Georgia Property Taxpayers Committee is a coalition of organizations designed to provide research and advocacy on behalf or property owners in Georgia. For more information, the website is www.gaptc.com.

Rogers has a proven track record of conservative legislative achievements. He has worked to bring transparency in government, create fairness and balance to Georgia’s property tax system, uphold citizens Second Amendment rights, and protect Georgians’ choices in health care by standing up to federal mandates.

For more information on Sen. Rogers issues and initiatives, visit his web site at
www.SenatorChipRogers.com.

 

Senator Rogers Seeks Re-Election & Announces Support Team

WOODSTOCK (April 19, 2010) – Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers has announced he will seek re-election for Senate District 21 and Senate Majority Leader.

“It has truly been one of the great honors of my life to serve the citizens of Cherokee and Cobb counties in the General Assembly. I am humbled by the trust they have placed in me, as well as, the overwhelming support from community leaders," said Senator Rogers.   "I have also been honored by my Senate colleagues to serve as Majority Leader. This position has allowed me to champion less government, more freedom, and common sense government.  I believe Georgia is uniquely positioned to lead our nation in recovery as we continue to lower taxes, reduce spending, and promote free-market solutions for our state.  I pledge to continue leading on each of these issues.”

Senator Rogers also announced his re-election support team which includes a broad base of community leaders from Cobb and Cherokee counties.

Majority Leader Chip Rogers Re-Election Support Team

  • Cherokee Sheriff Roger Garrison
  • Cobb Sheriff Neil Warren
  • Cherokee Commission Chairman Buzz Ahrens
  • Former Cobb Commission Chairman Sam Olens
  • Former State Representative Steve Stancil
  • Former Cobb Senator Chuck Clay
  • Former Cobb Commission Chairman Bill Byrne
  • Former Cherokee Commissioner Chairman Mike Byrd
  • Cobb Commissioner Tim Lee
  • Cherokee Commissioner Derek Good
  • Cherokee Commissioner Karen Bosch
  • Cherokee Commissioner Harry Johnston
  • Cherokee Commissioner Jim Hubbard
  • Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques
  • Holly Springs Mayor Tim Downing
  • Marietta Mayor Steve Tumlin
  • Former Woodstock Mayor Bill Dewrell
  • Woodstock Council Member Randy Brewer
  • Woodstock Council Member Steve Faris
  • Woodstock Council Member Bud Leonard
  • Former Woodstock Council Member Liz Baxter
  • Cherokee School Board Member Rick Steiner
  • Cherokee Clerk of Courts Patty Baker
  • Former Cherokee GOP Chair Linda Parker
  • Former Cherokee GOP Chair Pete Castello
  • Former Cherokee GOP Chair Sheila Auffrey
  • Dr. John Peacock
  • Cindy Castello
  • Don Conkey
  • JoAnn and Dave Birrell
  • David and Pam Connell
  • Steve Sandridge
  • Julie Brennan
  • Babe Byrne
  • Drew Davis
  • Jo Ellen Smith
  • George McClure

Senator Chip Rogers has previously been endorsed by the NRA, the Georgia Association of Educators, Georgia Right to Life, and the National Federation of Independent Business.

Senator Rogers has won more than a dozen “Legislator of the Year” awards. He has also been named:
·         3-time winner of the “Environmental Leadership Award”
·         “Friend of Education” Award – Cobb County Educators Association
·         Georgia Chamber “Legislator of the Year”
·         Americans for Prosperity “Legislator of the Year”
·         2-time winner of the ACCG of Georgia Legislative Service Award”

Senator Rogers has authored and sponsored a number of the major legislative victories over the last eight years including:

  • One of America’s strongest Identity Fraud Laws
  • Outlawing Dog-Fighting
  • Overhaul of Georgia’s Property Tax Law
  • America’s First Comprehensive State Law to Stop Illegal Immigration
  • Transparency in Government Act and creation of Open.Ga.Gov website
  • Grade Integrity Act to protect Georgia’s Teachers
  • Georgia’s Sales Tax Holiday
  • JOBS Bill making Georgia the national leader for creating investment          and jobs
  • Most significant expansion of Gun-Owner Rights in a generation
  • Amendment to Prevent Eminent Domain taking of Private Property

 

Senate Passes GA Taxpayer Relief Act

ATLANTA (April 14, 2010) – On the eve of national tax day, the Georgia General Assembly has passed major tax relief, HB 1055 called by some the “Georgia Taxpayer Relief Act of 2010”. The measure eliminates retirement income tax on Georgia seniors and eliminates the state property tax. Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock) lead the efforts in the Senate to help add the tax elimination measures to HB 1055.

“This was a great day for Georgia as the General Assembly has moved to completely eliminate two separate taxes. The elimination of the state property tax is a true tax cut for every Georgian who owns property or a vehicle. We coupled this with the elimination of retirement income tax on Georgia senior
citizens,” said Rogers. “Georgians need a financial break during these tough economic times. The General Assembly delivered real relief today by actually eliminating two forms of taxation. It was a good day for Georgia.”

The Act eliminates by phase-out the taxes on senior retirement income and the state property tax. Once fully enacted the tax cut is expected to be more than $250 Million per year. Another major component of the act reduces taxpayer subsidizing services for others by adjusting outdated and antiquated state fees and fines. When a fee does not cover the cost of the service provided, Georgia taxpayers subsidize the activities of specific individuals or businesses by paying the remaining cost. By addressing this issue now, users will rightfully pay the bulk of the cost of services provided.

Finally, at the request of every hospital in Georgia the Act creates a 1.45 percent hospital fee to fund the state Indigent Care Trust Fund. This funding formula is phased-out in three years. All funds raised from hospitals will go straight into the Indigent Care Trust Fund, which will be used to provide medical care for Georgia’s children and the poor. No revenue from the hospital fee will go into the state General Fund. The requested fee fund is expected to prevent major cuts to Medicaid funding and help keep open at least thirty Georgia hospitals that were rumored to close without additional funding.

Overall, the Georgia Taxpayer Relief Act of 2010 will provide relief for almost every taxpayer in Georgia while making significant progress in alleviating the state budget crisis.

For more information on the Act and other legislation, go to www.senate.ga.gov.