ATLANTA- In his first week as Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) took a promised step to restore transparency and integrity to the House by rescinding the appointments of the Hawk positions. A Hawk serves as an ex officio member of all standing committees and subcommittees of the House and has a vote on all committees and subcommittees.
“While this system was initiated to enable House committees to more readily meet their quorum requirements, it has become a tool used strictly for partisan purposes,” said Speaker Ralston. “Under my leadership, I am committed to working across the aisle and ensuring an equal voice to all House members no matter their party affiliation.”
The Hawk system was created in 2005 under a series of rule changes. Before making this decision public, Speaker Ralston announced his intentions to the full Republican Caucus earlier this week. In an effort to show their support, members who previously held the position voluntarily gave up their role. Those members included Rep. Clay Cox (R-Lilburn), Rep. David Casas (R-Lilburn) and Rep. John Lunsford (R- McDonough).
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