ATLANTA – State Representative Sandra Scott (D-Rex) recently introduced House Resolution 47, which would create a House Study Committee on the Decriminalization of Traffic Violations.
“The State of Georgia is the only state that considers all traffic offenses misdemeanor crimes,” said Rep. Scott. “We need a study committee to look at these archaic laws and effectively change most traffic violations to civil offenses.”
“Georgia has been a shining example of criminal justice reform for our nation. The current penalties and the threat of jail time that result from traffic violations should be reserved for serious criminals that endanger the safety of our citizens,” added Rep. Scott.
The proposed legislation would create a House study committee that would examine Georgia’s current traffic laws and determine which offenses should be classified as a criminal misdemeanor and which should be downgraded to a simple civil penalty.
Traffic violations are currently a misdemeanor in Georgia, and a person found guilty of such misdemeanors can face a fine up to $1,000 and a year in jail.
To read the full text of HR 47, please click here.
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes portions of Clayton and Henry counties. She was first elected to the House Representatives in 2010 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Legislative and Congressional Reapportionment, Science and Technology and Special Rules committees.
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