Military families in Georgia got some well deserved attention this week with passage of a measure which ensures that their children are granted five days of excused absence from school to visit with a returning parent on leave.

The House also moved to create incentives for land conservation. Under House Bill 1107 Georgian’s who donate property for conservation purposes will receive up to $250,000 income tax credit for the gift.

The program will be administered by the Department of Human Resources and is expected to strengthen the state’s overall conservation strategy both for environmental protection and public enjoyment.

Another measure which received wide support was the “TASER and Electronic Control Weapons Act” which will ensure that public safety officers are properly trained in the use of stun guns.

The measure requires police departments to establish written policies and directives for TASER use which are consistent with policies established by the Peace Officers Standards and Training Council.

Also passed was a statewide alert plan which is being called “Matties’ Bill” after Mattie Moore, an Alzheimer patient who wandered from her home, became lost, and perished.

The system calls on law enforcement, broadcasters and others to work together to get the word out when someone with a mental disability is missing.

I’m Rep. _____________ reporting from the capitol.