Georgia Restaurant Association - Advocacy Bulletins

Week 9: Sine Die Summary, Bill Tracking, Final Fun Fact

04 Apr 2013 9:14 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

Advocacy Bulletin

A Service Provided by the Georgia Restaurant Association
Weekly During Legislative Session

Sine Die Summary

At midnight on Thursday, March 28, the 40-day legislative session came to a close. We would like to thank our elected officials. Above all, we thank you, our members, for your support. Whether it's through membership dues, reading these advocacy bulletins, or helping us spread the word, our members make us a stronger voice for Georgia's restaurants.

Bill Tracking

Bill Tracking: PASSED, Sent to Governor Deal for Signature

Ethics:
HB 142, Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission: $75.00 value cap placed on gifts to legislators from lobbyists, requires anyone expecting more than $250.00 in reimbursement for advocating to register as a lobbyist.

HB 143, Campaign contributions; disclosure reports: Non-incumbents for House and Senate seats cannot fundraise during legislative session, gives the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Commission more flexibility with late filing notice procedures.

Healthcare:
SB 236, Insurance; require insurers; indicate amount of the premium increase; Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act: Would require insurers to notify patients of premium increases and indicate what percentage is attributed to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Immigration:
SB 160, Public Employers; provide annual report relative to compliance with certain laws; provide for certain report to Dept. of Audits and Accounts: Intended to streamline license renewal process through Secretary of State’s office. Adds new public benefits which require proof of legal status in U.S.

Judiciary Non-Civil:
HB 141, Kidnapping; certain businesses and establishments post a model notice to enable persons who are the subject of human trafficking to obtain help and services; require: Would require businesses to post assistance notices to potential victims of human trafficking.
• GRA was successful in keeping restaurants out of the "certain business and establishment" definition.

HB 407, Drivers' licenses; mandatory use of ignition interlock devices following second conviction for driving under influence of alcohol or drugs: Ignition interlock device would be mandatory after a second DUI conviction.

Insurance & Labor:
HB 154, Worker's compensation; awards and benefits: For more detailed information on the effects of the bill, here is a summary. Also, bill author Rep. Mark Hamilton discusses its impact on Georgia businesses (courtesy of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce).

HB 361, Labor organizations membership: Allows workers to opt out at any time from having union dues deducted from their paychecks.

Natural Resources & Environment:
SB 136, "Kyle Glover Boat Education Law" and "Jake and Griffin BUI Law"; provide for greater public protection for hunting and boating: Lowers blood alcohol level while operating a boat. Restaurants operating near boating areas would need heightened awareness in proper alcohol training for staff.

Regulated Industries:
HB 99, Malt beverages; amount produced by a person in his or her private residence: Changes the allotted brewing amounts for private home malt beverage producers and allows special event permit to be issued for home-brew events. Passed in committee with amendments; modified to allow for more local jurisdiction on enforcement on home-brew special events, permits and transportation.

HB 487, Public health and morals; Georgia Lottery: Georgia Lottery Commission will oversee and regulate the use of video poker machines instead of GA Dept. of Revenue.

HB 517, Alcohol; local control of distance requirements of grocery stores and other licensees for retail sale of wine and malt beverages near college campuses: Allows for local governments to decide distance requirements in retail sales of beer and wine near college campuses.

Ways & Means:
HB 193, Sales and use tax; tangible personal property to certain nonprofit health centers; provide exemption only for a limited period of time: Reinstates three important sales and use tax exemptions for food banks (which expired in 2011).

Bill Tracking: DEAD for This Session, Possibly Active in 2014

Labor:
HB 290, Labor; employees use sick leave for care of immediate family members: Would apply to employers who currently offer sick leave to their employees.

Judiciary Non-Civil:
Entrapment (HB 43) – Clarifies that under certain circumstances, patrons leaving establishments licensed to sell alcohol are entitled to use entrapment by law enforcement as a defense.

SB 101, Firearms; regulate the sale, use and possession in this state: Would allow firearms in churches, college campuses, unsecured government buildings and bars.

Regulated Industries:
Breathalyzers (HB 58) – Would require all retail alcohol consumption and retail dealers to provide a breathalyzer device to patrons in a visible place in their establishments.

HB 185, Tastings; retail sales of distilled spirits manufactured by a distillery to be sold on premises: Would allow on-premise retail sales at distilleries.

HB 313, Alcoholic beverages; change definition of the term "brewpub": Limit exceptions to the three-tier system - the amount that can be sold for retail to a max of 288 ounces per person per day for off-premise consumption, keeps the 50% F&B sales/10,000 allotted brewing/5,000 distribution amounts, would not allow free samplings on-premise (see HB 314), and would require that beer from other manufacturers be sold along with the establishment’s brews from licensed wholesalers.

HB 314, Alcoholic beverages; change definition of the term "brewpub": Clarifies wording in Section 3, Line 56-58, Paragraph 2B regarding the brewpub being the sole retail outlet for malt beverages brewed on premise; and Paragraph 4 would allow for on-premise sampling.

Georgia Officials Team Up To Fight Childhood Obesity

Georgia lawmakers and public and private organizations, including the Georgia Restaurant Association, met recently in Atlanta to discuss ways of reducing childhood obesity in the state. The event, “United Against Childhood Obesity,” was held March 27 at the state capitol and addressed the issue of childhood obesity and joint efforts to reverse the trend.

Karen Bremer, executive director of the Georgia Restaurant Association, said her organization is committed to helping educate the public about the National Restaurant Association’s Kids LiveWell initiative and how to make better, more healthful choices when they dine out. “It is important for us to showcase for legislators the healthy options our industry offers, let them know we will continue to provide healthier options in our restaurants and create more awareness among parents and children on what healthy dining can be when they eat out,” she said. Read More...

Coming Soon:
NRA Public Affairs Conference
April 17 to 18, 2012, Washington, D.C.

Join hundreds of politically active restaurateurs for the National Restaurant Association’s Public Affairs Conference. Attendees hear from top leaders about what’s happening on Capitol Hill and in the regulatory agencies. House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and political consultants Paul Begala and Alex Castellanos are among the speakers. You’ll get briefed on critical issues for the restaurant industry: health care, immigration reform, tax reform, and more.

Attendees spend two days in Washington, DC, with hundreds of industry peers and colleagues talking about the issues that matter to their restaurant company. Conference attendees will gain valuable political insights and get a better understanding of how today's top legislative issues will affect their business -- and bottom line -- in the coming year.

Advocacy Bulletin - Signing Off

The end of the legislative session brings with it the end of our weekly Advocacy Bulletins. Don't worry - we'll still be bringing you the latest advocacy updates through our website, facebook and in our weekly GRA Connect eNews. Here's one final Fun Fact to tide you over until next session.

Fun Fact

The term "sine die" is a Latin term defined as "without day," but more specifically meaning "without assigning a day for further meeting or hearing." By constitutional mandate, each session of the Georgia Legislature must be adjourned by midnight on the 40th session day - Sine Die. In some rare cases, the clocks in the chambers have been stopped just prior to midnight to allow debate to run past the end of the calendar day. When the session is gaveled to a close, members cheer and toss papers into the air in celebration.

Week 8: Count Down to Sine Die, Immigration Update, Healthcare Flexibility

28 Mar 2013 9:52 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

United Against Childhood Obesity Day

The Georgia Restaurant Association attended the United Against Childhood Obesity Day at the Capitol on Wednesday, March 27th. We were there to promote Kids LiveWell to our state legislators and describe how restaurants are highlighting their healthy meal choices. Learn more on Kids LiveWell.

Bill Tracking - Sine Die Countdown

Tomorrow is scheduled to be "Sine Die" - the 40th and final day of session.

This week's AJC has an excellent summary on where bills stand as the session nears Sine Die.

HB 154: Workers Compensation - Passed Senate and will be referred to a Senate Insurance & Labor Committee. For more detailed information on the effects of the bill, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce has provided both a summary and a video of bill author Rep. Mark Hamilton discussing its impact on Georgia businesses.
Status: Senate Passed/Adopted

HB 32 & HB 125: Lawful Presence – HB 32 started as a way to fix the professional licensing bottleneck resulting from HB 87, then the bill was “hijacked” into HB 125. The new version attempts to give the state more control in enforcing immigration laws by creating a state audit of worker programs. HB 32 had support from many faith-based groups but they are now opposed to HB 125. This bait-and-switch tactic can be common in the final days of session so we will continue to monitor bills closely through Sine Die.
Status: Senate Read Second Time

HB 142: Ethics Reform - This bill has undergone revision. We will keep you informed as we monitor developments.
Status: Senate Conference Committee Appointed

HB 99: Malt Beverages - Changes the allotted brewing amounts for private home malt beverage producers and allows special event permit to be issued for home-brew events. Passed in committee with amendments; modified to allow for more local jurisdiction on enforcement on home-brew special events, permits and transportation.
Status: Senate Read Second Time

HB 101: Non-Profit Event Exemption – Exempts certain non-profit events from the foodservice establishment definition. This includes any state, county, municipality events, or public or private school outdoor functions that are sponsored by a political subdivision or tax-exempt organization. Must last 120 hours or less, event sponsor must have a permit.
Status: House Agree Senate Amend or Sub

HB 361: Labor Organizations Membership - Reiterates Federal law with employee and employer labor rights – allows for secret ballot, labor organization dues must be deducted with employee’s annual consent, collective bargaining, etc.
Status: Senate/Passed Adopted by Substitute

HB 36: Revise Definition of "Game Fish" - Would classify red drum as a salt water fish and restrict commercial fishing.
Status: Senate Passed/Adopted

HB 199: Expand Georgia Reservoir Fund - Would allow “smart” water meters to be used to locate leaks and compare to water billing statements.
Status: Senate Read Second Time

HB 193: Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Food Banks - Reinstates three important sales and use tax exemptions for food banks (which expired in 2011).
Status: Senate Passed/Adopted By Substitute

SR 427: Brewpub Committee - Calls for the creation of a Senate Study Committee on Brewpubs and Alcoholic Beverage Tastings.
Status: Senate Read Second Time

Immigration Update

- U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Thrash recently overturned a provision in HB 87 that would have made it against the law to transport, harbor illegal immigrants or convince them to cross our state border.

- Tad Mitchell, Owner of Six Feet Under restaurants, was a featured speaker at an ImmigrationWorks-sponsored briefing for congressional staffers in DC earlier this month. A panel of employers from across the U.S. explained their reliance on immigration to help them keep their operations running and contributing to the economy.

- Reminder: New I9 form is mandatory beginning May 8th. Download the new form.

Healthcare: How About Some Flexibility?

The National Restaurant Association and its partners in the Employers for Flexibility in Health Care (E-FLEX) coalition submitted comments Friday on the IRS's proposed regulations to explain the health care law's employer mandate. The jist of our commentary: with the nation just about 9 months away from the most sweeping health-system changes in decades, critical guidance and education for businesses remains strikingly missing. View the IRS Proposed Regulations and the corresponding commentary.

Fun Fact:

Did you know that Georgia had three governors at one point? Georgia's "three governors controversy" of 1946-47, which began with the death of Governor-elect Eugene Talmadge, was one of the more bizarre political spectacles in the records of American politics. In the wake of Talmadge's death, his supporters proposed a plan that allowed the Georgia legislature to elect a governor in January 1947. When the General Assembly elected Talmadge's son as governor, the newly elected lieutenant governor, Melvin Thompson, claimed the office of governor, and the outgoing governor, Ellis Arnall, refused to leave office. Eventually, the Georgia Supreme Court settled the controversy claiming Melvin Thompson was the rightful governor. -Georgia Encyclopedia

Week 7: Red Tape Watch, Count Down to Sine Die

19 Mar 2013 5:37 PM | Kelly Hornbuckle (Administrator)

HB 314 Rally Held on 3/14

The GRA was in attendance at 5 Seasons Brewery’s “HB 314 Rally” on Thursday. While passage of an HB 314-style bill is unlikely this session, we will continue to monitor progress like SR 427 which calls for the creation of a Senate Study Committee on Brewpubs and Alcoholic Beverage Tastings. We support the betterment and growth of our state brewpubs and we will continue to work with our brewpub members and elected officials.

Bill Tracking

The General Assembly adjourned last Thursday to complete Day 34 and will reconvene Wednesday, March 20th for Day 35.
According to HR 738, "Sine Die" - the 40th and final day of session - will be Thursday, March 28th.

HB 154: Workers Compensation - Passed Senate and will be referred to a Senate Insurance & Labor Committee. For more detailed information on the effects of the bill, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce has provided both a summary and a video of bill author Rep. Mark Hamilton discussing its impact on Georgia businesses.
Status: Senate Passed/Adopted

HB 142 & HB 143: Ethics Reform - There has been a great deal of conversation surrounding these bills. We will keep you informed as we monitor developments.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

HB 99: Malt Beverages - Changes the allotted brewing amounts for private home malt beverage producers and allows special event permit to be issued for home-brew events. Passed in committee with amendments; modified to allow for more local jurisdiction on enforcement on home-brew special events, permits and transportation.
Status: Senate Read Second Time

HB 101: Non-Profit Event Exemption – Exempts certain non-profit events from the foodservice establishment definition. This includes any state, county, municipality events, or public or private school outdoor functions that are sponsored by a political subdivision or tax-exempt organization. Must last 120 hours or less, event sponsor must have a permit.
Status: House Agree Senate Amend or Sub

HB 361: Labor Organizations Membership - Reiterates Federal law with employee and employer labor rights – allows for secret ballot, labor organization dues must be deducted with employee’s annual consent, collective bargaining, etc.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

HB 36: Revise Definition of "Game Fish" - Would classify red drum as a salt water fish and restrict commercial fishing.
Status: Senate Read Second Time

HB 199: Expand Georgia Reservoir Fund - Would allow “smart” water meters to be used to locate leaks and compare to water billing statements.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

HB 193: Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Food Banks - Reinstates three important sales and use tax exemptions for food banks (which expired in 2011).
Status: Senate Read and Referred

"Red Tape Watch" Hearings Begin Thursday

The House Small Business Development & Job Creation Committee will hold another installment of its series of hearings on burdensome government regulations. Hearings are scheduled to begin next week and will allow for public testimony from business owners on specific regulatory “red tape” inhibiting business development. The first hearing will be Thursday, March 21, at 2 p.m. in Room 406 of the Coverdell Legislative Office Building.
If you are interested in participating, please contact katie@garestaurants.org. Comments may also be submitted at www.house.ga.gov/redtapewatch or by contacting Jenee' Burke (jenee.burke@house.ga.gov, 404-657-7683).

Reminder: NRA Public Affairs Conference

It's not too late to sign-up for NRA's Public Affairs Conference - April 17-18. Register today. Priority issues for this Public Affairs Conference include the health care law, immigration reform, wage issues and tax reform.

Want to join the Georgia delegation for the annual Washington Fly-Up, April 17-18? ContactKatie@garestaurants.org.

Fun Fact:

The word of the day is: Aerotropolis.
As in...
"An urban plan in which the layout, infrastructure, and economy is centered around an airport, existing as an airport city. It is similar in form and function to a traditional metropolis, which contains a central city core and its commuter-linked suburbs. The term was first proposed by New York commercial artist Nicholas DeSantis, whose drawing of a skyscraper rooftop airport in the city was presented in the November 1939 issue of Popular Science. The term was revived and substantially extended by academic and air commerce expert Dr. John D. Kasarda in 2000, based on his prior research on airport-driven economic development."
- Wikipedia

Also, as seen in HB 545 (Senate Read and Referred) which would create the Metropolitan Atlanta Aerotropolis Development Authority.

Crossover Day Edition

13 Mar 2013 12:16 PM | Kelly Hornbuckle (Administrator)

15,000 Georgians Take to the Streets...
And Take the Next Step to Help Prevent Hunger

Many thanks to all of our members who made donations, formed teams, joined our team and helped spread the word about the 2013 Hunger Walk/Run benefiting the Atlanta Community Food Bank. We could not have asked for a more beautiful day or a more positive crowd. We are particularly proud of the strong restaurant industry presence - including Title Sponsor: the Arby's Foundation, and top fundraising team: Fifth Group Restaurants - not to mention the 60+ restaurants who participated in the Hunger Walk/Dine Out Program.
Donations Accepted Through March 31st

Bill Tracking

Today marked Day 32 of the 40-day Legislative Session. HR 548 sets the calendar of the General Assembly of Georgia through Day 35, Wednesday, March 20th.

Last week was very important because it included “Crossover Day” - Day 30 of the legislative session. A bill must pass through its individual chamber on or before Crossover Day to have the opportunity to become a law. However, because we are in a new two-year session (2013-2014), any bills that do not crossover can still be considered again next year.

If you are interested, the AJC has summaries of Crossover Day from both the House and the Senate.

Crossed Over:

HB 154: Workers Compensation - Passed Senate and will be referred to a Senate Insurance & Labor Committee. For more detailed information on the effects of the bill, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce has provided both a summary and a video of bill author Rep. Mark Hamilton discussing its impact on Georgia businesses.
Status: Senate Read Second Time

HB 99: Malt Beverages - Changes the allotted brewing amounts for private home malt beverage producers and allows special event permit to be issued for home-brew events. Passed in committee with amendments; modified to allow for more local jurisdiction on enforcement on home-brew special events, permits and transportation.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

HB 101: Non-Profit Event Exemption – Exempts certain non-profit events from the foodservice establishment definition. This includes any state, county, municipality events, or public or private school outdoor functions that are sponsored by a political subdivision or tax-exempt organization. Must last 120 hours or less, event sponsor must have a permit.
Status: Senate Passed/Adopted By Substitute

HB 361: Labor Organizations Membership - Reiterates Federal law with employee and employer labor rights – allows for secret ballot, labor organization dues must be deducted with employee’s annual consent, collective bargaining, etc.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

HB 36: Revise Definition of "Game Fish" - Would classify red drum as a salt water fish and restrict commercial fishing.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

HB 199: Expand Georgia Reservoir Fund - Would allow “smart” water meters to be used to locate leaks and compare to water billing statements.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

HB 193: Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Food Banks - Reinstates three important sales and use tax exemptions for food banks (which expired in 2011).
Status: Senate Read and Referred

Did Not Crossover:

HB 58: Breathalyzers - Would require all alcohol retailers (including restaurants) to provide a breathalyzer device to patrons.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 314: "Fill the Growler" - Alcoholic beverages; change definition of the term "brewpub"; provisions: Clarifies wording in Section 3, Line 56-58, Paragraph 2B regarding the brewpub being the sole retail outlet for malt beverages brewed on premise; and Paragraph 4 would allow for on-premise sampling. Read the summary from GRA member Max Lager's Wood-Fired Grill & Brewery. The Georgia Restaurant Association supports the betterment and growth of our state brewpubs.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 97: Minimum Wage – Proposes to raise state minimum wage to $6.20 beginning January 1, 2014, and raise each successive year by any cost of living increase.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

SB 20: Employee Credit Reports – Would prohibit employers from requesting credit reports of current and prospective employees.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

Court Strikes Down Beverage Ban

In a decisive victory for restaurants and consumer choice, a New York court struck down NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg's beverage ban. The court ruled that the beverage ban -- enacted by the mayor's board of health last September -- was arbitrary and capricious and violated the “separation of powers” doctrine. Hence, the ban will not go into effect.
The NRA was one of the lead plaintiffs in the lawsuit, along with the American Beverage Association and others. The mayor's proposal would have banned most sugar-sweetened beverages over 16 ounces in restaurants and other foodservice venues.
Read the full decision. Read our op-ed on the beverage ban.

Friday Deadline for NRA Public Affairs Conference

This Friday, March 15, is the deadline to book hotel rooms for the NRA's April 17-18 NRA Public Affairs Conference at preferred rates. Rooms are going quickly. Sign up today. Priority issues for this Public Affairs Conference include the health care law, immigration reform, wage issues and tax reform.

Want to join the Georgia delegation for the annual Washington Fly-Up, April 17-18? ContactKatie@garestaurants.org.

National News Round-Up: New I-9 Form, Menu Labeling, and more...

New I-9 Form
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released a new I-9 form March 7 and gave employers a 60-day grace period to begin using it for all new hires. Starting May 8, the new form is mandatory. Learn more. View the new form.

Menu Labeling a "Thorny Issue"

FDA Secretary Margaret Hamburg said in an AP story today that coming up with regulations to implement the menu-labeling law for chain restaurants is one of the thornier issues the FDA faces. "In practice it really would be very hard" for some restaurants to add calorie counts to menus, menu boards and drive-thru menus, Hamburg said. The NRA and a group of its members met with White House staff last week to reiterate the need for flexibility and enough time for restaurants to implement the law once final regulations are issued. The FDA issued proposed regulations nearly two years ago and could issue final regulations during the second quarter of 2013.

Comprehensive Immigration Reform Coming Together

Immigration reform seems to be gathering momentum. “It looks like a very promising year for immigration,” says Angelo Amador, vice president, labor and workforce policy, National Restaurant Association. The House and the Senate want to do something, and the President invited Sens. John McCain (R-Arizona) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) to the White House to discuss bipartisan immigration reform efforts, he noted. "It is good news that they’re talking about it.” Read the full story.

Know Your Options in Swipe-Fee Settlement: March 27 Webinar

Gain a better understanding of a federal court proposal to settle a lawsuit over payment-card acceptance practices and fees. Join Jeffrey Shinder of Constantine Cannon, the NRA’s outside counsel, for a webinar March 27, 2:30 p.m. ET, to discuss the settlement and your options. Learn why the National Restaurant Association believes the settlement would do little, if anything, to address fundamental problems in the way fees are set. Register today.

Fun Fact:

Did you know that "Filibuster" comes from the Dutch word "Freebooter" - which is another term for Pirate?
Last week's filibuster by Sen. Rand Paul brought attention to this legislative tactic, which became popular in the 1850s and continues through today. Read the fact sheet from the US Senate.

Week 5: State Restaurant Day & Taste of Georgia (gallery+video), National News Round-Up, Deadline for New FMLA Poster

27 Feb 2013 10:34 AM | Kelly Hornbuckle (Administrator)

State Restaurant Day & Taste of Georgia - Thank You!

From Left: GRA Past Chair Patrick Cuccaro, GRA Public Affairs Coordinator Katie Jones, Sen. Don Balfour, GRA Chair Hank Clark and Lt. Governor Casey Cagle present SR 205 Recognizing February 19 as State Restaurant Day

A special "thank you" to all who attended and participated in last week’s Taste of Georgia Legislative Reception! It was a resounding success and we have received positive feedback from assembly members and staff who attended.
Our Board of Directors kicked-off the morning with a GRA board meeting at the GA Dept. of Agriculture catered by Another Broken Egg Cafe. Then, they cheered on from the gallery as SR 205 proclaimed it State Restaurant Day. Watch the video of GA Senate Day 19 AM - presentation begins at 40:50.
That evening, nearly 30 restaurants and organizations provided tastes to a crowd of approximately 300 legislators, dignitaries and guests - including Governor Nathan Deal, Wendi Sastrum, VP of Educational Programs at NRAEF, and Commissioner of Agriculture Gary Black.
View the photo gallery from this year's Taste of Georgia.

Bill Tracking

Today marked Day 24 of the 40-day Legislative Session. HR 50 sets the calendar of the General Assembly of Georgia through Day 29, Tuesday, March 5th. We are anticipating that next Wednesday, March 6th will be Crossover Day - the last chance for bills to "crossover" from the legislative chamber where they were introduced.

On the Front-Burner:

In addition to Taste of Georgia and State Restaurant Day, we attended many committee meetings at the Capitol last week and are closely monitoring the following legislation.

HB 154: Workers Compensation - Passed Senate and will be referred to a Senate Insurance & Labor Committee. For more detailed information on the effects of the bill, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce has provided both a summary and a video of bill author Rep. Mark Hamilton discussing its impact on Georgia businesses.
Status: Senate Read Second Time

HB 314: "Fill the Growler" - Alcoholic beverages; change definition of the term "brewpub"; provisions: Clarifies wording in Section 3, Line 56-58, Paragraph 2B regarding the brewpub being the sole retail outlet for malt beverages brewed on premise; and Paragraph 4 would allow for on-premise sampling. Read the summary from GRA member Max Lager's Wood-Fired Grill & Brewery. The Georgia Restaurant Association supports the betterment and growth of our state brewpubs.
Status: House Second Readers

House Bills:

HB 58: Breathalyzers - Would require all alcohol retailers (including restaurants) to provide a breathalyzer device to patrons.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 97: Minimum Wage – Proposes to raise state minimum wage to $6.20 beginning January 1, 2014, and raise each successive year by any cost of living increase.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 99: Malt Beverages - Changes the allotted brewing amounts for private home malt beverage producers and allows special event permit to be issued for home-brew events. Passed in committee with amendments; modified to allow for more local jurisdiction on enforcement on home-brew special events, permits and transportation.
Status: House Committee Favorably Reported By Substitute

HB 101: Non-Profit Event Exemption – Exempts certain non-profit events from the foodservice establishment definition. This includes any state, county, municipality events, or public or private school outdoor functions that are sponsored by a political subdivision or tax-exempt organization. Must last 120 hours or less, event sponsor must have a permit.
Status: Senate Read Second Time

HB 361: Labor Organizations Membership - Reiterates Federal law with employee and employer labor rights – allows for secret ballot, labor organization dues must be deducted with employee’s annual consent, collective bargaining, etc. NOTE: There is a similar bill (HB 144) that repeats that Georgia is Right to Work State.
Status: House Committee Favorably Reported By Substitute

Senate Bills:

SB 20: Employee Credit Reports – Would prohibit employers from requesting credit reports of current and prospective employees.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

GRA Speaks to Need for Comprehensive Federal Immigration Reform at Civil Rights Panel

Our own Karen Bremer participated in a panel discussion last week for the Georgia Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. She discussed our industry’s need for comprehensive federal immigration reform and cited findings from The Essential Economy Council. "We cannot have white-collar jobs if we don't have entry-level jobs," said Bremer, who suggested one part of a solution could be a flexible worker program to deal with seasonal issues. While outsourcing may be a solution in some industries, it's not one for the restaurant industry, she said. "You can't outsource a dishwasher to India, or a hostess to China," Bremer said.
Media Coverage: CBS Atlanta, Gainesville Times, Gwinnett Daily Post

NRA Public Affairs Conference Keynote Speakers Announced

The political duo of Paul Begala and Alex Castellanos will be among the speakers at the NRA Public Affairs Conference. They’ll provide bipartisan political insights on the happenings inside Congress and the White House as we prepare to CARRY OUR MESSAGE to Capitol Hill.
- Paul Begala, a political analyst for CNN, was a counselor to President Clinton. He has advised political campaigns throughout the country and around the world. At CNN, he is part of the political team, he also is a columnist for Newsweek and The Daily Beast.
- Alex Castellanos is one of the Republican Party’s best-known and most successful media consultants and strategists. He was a media consultant to seven U.S Presidential campaigns and helped elect nine U.S. senators and six governors. He has more than 20 years of political consulting experience.

Want to join the Georgia delegation for the annual Washington Fly-Up, April 17-18? Contact Katie@garestaurants.org.

National News Round-Up: New FMLA Posters, ADA Rules on Food Allergens, and more...

Deadline March 8 for New FMLA Poster
The U.S. Department of Labor has issued regulation changes to the Family and Medical Leave Act that will take effect March 8. As a result, employers with 50 or more workers are required to post an updated poster on premises that depicts the changes. Employers must post the new information no later than March 8. The new regulations, which the Department of Labor issued Feb. 6, relate to such provisions as allowing for military caregiver leave for veterans, qualifying exigency leave for parental care, and job-protected leave for airline personnel and flight crews. View the new regulations.

What's Your Food Cost? National Average Stands at 33%

Food and nonalcoholic beverage costs represented a median of 33 percent of total food and nonalcoholic beverage sales in December. According to the National Restaurant Association’s Tracking Survey, the casual dining segment reported the highest food cost ratio, at 34 percent. Restaurant operators: Participate in this monthly survey to see how your restaurant stacks up on a variety of key indicators.

Restaurants Not Required to Serve Allergen-Free Foods

The Justice Department reaffirmed that the Americans With Disabilities Act doesn't require restaurants to provide gluten- or allergen-free food.

Tip Questions for Tax Season

Tip-reporting paperwork is on restaurateurs' minds as tax season approaches. Learn about IRS tip-reporting requirements and more.

Fun Fact:

Which Georgia Congressman has the most restaurants in his legislative district?
That would be Congressman Tom Price (R) of District 6, with 1,788 eating and drinking establishments and 32,856 foodservice employees. In a close second is Congressman John Lewis (D) of District 5 with 1,726 eating and drinking establishments and 31,715 foodservice employees.

You can learn more about Georgia's restaurants, plus data on jobs, locations, and sales in Georgia's Restaurant Industry at a Glance.

Week 4: GRA Goes to Washington, Georgia's Newest Trustees, State of the Union, The Restaurant of the Future

27 Feb 2013 10:32 AM | Kelly Hornbuckle (Administrator)

GRA Goes to Washington for 2013 Fisheries National Outreach Day

Photo: Chef Dave Snyder poses with blue crab at 2012 Golden Onion Professional Cooking Competition

This week, representatives from the GRA will join the South Atlantic Fisherman's Association at the 2013 Fisheries National Outreach Day in Washington D.C. We will meet with our Congressional delegates to support solutions which ensure healthy, affordable and sustainable seafood for our restaurant members and their guests. We thank Chef Dave Snyder of Halyards Restaurant Group in St. Simons for connecting us with SouthernCATCH and bringing this important issue into focus for our association.

Speaking of Washington...

The NRA’s Public Affairs Conference is set for April 17-18 in Washington, D.C. where hundreds of restaurateurs will attend this two-day event and visit more than 300 congressional offices. The meetings with representatives, senators and legislative staff help lawmakers understand how frustrating and expensive some issues can be for restaurateurs.
Want to join the Georgia delegation for the annual Washington Fly-Up? Contact Katie@garestaurants.org.

Bill Tracking

Today marked Day 16 in Week 4 of the 40-day Legislative Session. HR 50 sets the calendar of the General Assembly of Georgia through Day 29, Tuesday, March 5th.

On the Front-Burner:

It was a busy week of session after last week’s budget and appropriation hearings. We are closely monitoring the bills below - in addition to doing research on several pieces of potential legislation.

HB 58: Breathalyzers - Would require all alcohol retailers (including restaurants) to provide a breathalyzer device to patrons.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 43: Entrapment – Clarifies that under certain circumstances, patrons leaving establishments licensed to sell alcohol are entitled to use entrapment by law enforcement as a defense.
Status: House Second Readers

House Bills:

HB 97: Minimum Wage – Proposes to raise state minimum wage to $6.20 beginning January 1, 2014, and raise each successive year by any cost of living increase.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 99: Malt Beverages - Changes the allotted brewing amounts for private home malt beverage producers and allows special event permit to be issued for home-brew events.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 101: Non-Profit Event Exemption – Exempts certain non-profit events from the foodservice establishment definition. This includes any state, county, municipality events, or public or private school outdoor functions that are sponsored by a political subdivision or tax-exempt organization. Must last 120 hours or less, event sponsor must have a permit.
Status: House Committee Favorably Reported

Senate Bills:

SB 20: Employee Credit Reports – Would prohibit employers from requesting credit reports of current and prospective employees.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

What Do These Two New Georgia Trustees Have in Common?

They are both recipients of the GRACE Lifetime Achievement Award! And now, Truett Cathy, of Chick-fil-A, and Herman Russell, of Concessions International and Paschal's Restaurant, are this year’s recipients of the highest honor the State of Georgia confers on a citizen - designation as Georgia's Trustees.
They were selected by the Georgia Historical Society and the Office of the Governor and will be honored Saturday, Feb. 16, at the historical society’s gala in Savannah, a part of its annual commemoration of Georgia history.
The original trustees were chartered by England’s King George II in 1732 and charged with establishing the new colony but disbanded in 1752; the state re-established the honor in 2009 to honor contemporary Georgians.
Heartiest congratulations to these two outstanding ambassadors of both our state and our industry.

State of the Union Preview: Restaurant Edition

Ahead of the President’s State of the Union address this evening, the National Restaurant Association’s (NRA) President and CEO Dawn Sweeney said economic stability and progress in key policy areas is critical to the restaurant industry’s continued growth and success.

“While the restaurant industry is expected to grow in 2013, operators continue to face a wide range of challenges, chief among them concerns about consumer confidence and the economy,” said Sweeney. “On behalf of our members, the National Restaurant Association urges policymakers to provide long-term, sustainable solutions necessary to keep our economy moving.” Read on..

Don't Miss It: Taste of Georgia Legislative Reception

When: Thursday, February 19, 2013, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Where: The Freight Room at the Georgia Railroad Freight Depot
65 Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive, S.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30334

What: This annual event is an opportunity for GRA members to showcase their food to elected officials, and for our legislators to network with our state’s second largest employer.
Space is Limited - Register Today

Fun Fact:

From the The Washington Post

In this retro-futuristic video, Walter Cronkite gives viewers a glimpse of the kitchen of tomorrow (from the perspective of 1967). Thankfully, this vision was off. However, today's restaurant kitchens are technologically advanced and constantly evolving. We may not be melting down our plastic dishware in our kitchens, but we are reducing, reusing and recycling to ensure a bright future for restaurants in 2067, and beyond.

As Scott DeFife, the National Restaurant Association’s executive vice president of policy and government affairs, recently said at the U.S. Composting Council’s annual conference, he is excited about the future of sustainability and the Association’s role in sharing the information with its members. “I think the future is strong,” he said. “From the restaurant perspective, I think we’ve really just touched the beginning. We’ve got a lot of education to do and we’ve only just started. We have some survey results that show while there is great interest, many have not yet started down this path. And even if they are [already involved], they’ve got much more to do going forward.”

Visit the conserve.restaurant.org to learn more about the NRA's Conserve program. Plus, sign up for our Restaurant Recycling Made Easy program.

Week 3: Savannah Brings Seafood to the Capitol, Norovirus in the News, Exercise Credit Card Caution

05 Feb 2013 5:49 PM | Kelly Hornbuckle (Administrator)

Savannah Chatham Day - Seafood & Southern Hospitality

Photo Credit: Bunny Ware, Spotted® at SavannahNow.com
From Left to Right: Niraj Shetty with Gas South, Katie Jones with the Georgia Restaurant Association and Chris Coan with Gas South at Savannah Chatham Day

Last Thursday more than 200 members and supporters of the Savannah Area Chamber met in Atlanta with our state elected officials to share legislative priorities while also providing some Southern hospitality through the annual Seafood Festival. The Chamber’s legislative priorities for this year include funding the state’s share of harbor deepening and state support for a Savannah Cruise Terminal feasibility study. Representatives from the GRA attended this annual seafood event in support of our coastal restaurants and fisheries.

Bill Tracking

Today marked Day 11 in Week 3 of the 40-day Legislative Session. HR 50 sets the calendar of the General Assembly of Georgia through Day 29, Tuesday, March 5th.

On the Front-Burner:

It was a busy week of session after last week’s budget and appropriation hearings. We are closely monitoring the bills below - in addition to doing research on several pieces of potential legislation.

HB 58: Breathalyzers - Would require all alcohol retailers (including restaurants) to provide a breathalyzer device to patrons.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 43: Entrapment – Clarifies that under certain circumstances, patrons leaving establishments licensed to sell alcohol are entitled to use entrapment by law enforcement as a defense.
Status: House Second Readers

House Bills:

HB 97: Minimum Wage – Proposes to raise state minimum wage to $6.20 beginning January 1, 2014, and raise each successive year by any cost of living increase.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 99: Malt Beverages - Changes the allotted brewing amounts for private home malt beverage producers and allows special event permit to be issued for home-brew events.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 101: Non-Profit Event Exemption – Exempts certain non-profit events from the foodservice establishment definition. This includes any state, county, municipality events, or public or private school outdoor functions that are sponsored by a political subdivision or tax-exempt organization. Must last 120 hours or less, event sponsor must have a permit.
Status: House Second Readers

Senate Bills:

SB 20: Employee Credit Reports – Would prohibit employers from requesting credit reports of current and prospective employees.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

Norovirus in the News

The new strain of Norovirus is in the news, receiving coverage fromWSBTV, CBS Atlanta, Fox 5 Atlanta and WABE.
Our message to the media is that we take food safety very seriously and work closely with our restaurants and health officials year-round. The most important steps in controlling the spread of Norovirus are to regularly wash hands with soap and water and to avoid bare hand contact with Ready to Eat food - both practices are already required in restaurants by the Georgia Food Code. As a public service, we offer free Food Code Briefings and discounts on to our members on ServSafe®, the industry-leading food safety training product. Learn more about preventing Norovirus.

Want to Go to Washington with Us?

The NRA’s Public Affairs Conference is set for April 17-18 in Washington, D.C.where hundreds of restaurateurs will attend this two-day event and visit more than 300 congressional offices. The meetings with representatives, senators and legislative staff help lawmakers understand how frustrating and expensive some issues can be for restaurateurs.
If you are interested in joining the Georgia delegation for the annual Washington Fly-Up, please contactKatie@garestaurants.org.

Get Up to Speed on Health Care

Join us for our first Health Care Briefing of the year - a discussion of the health care reform mandates that will impact your business, and strategies to minimize or avoid the impact of these mandates. March 6th from 2-4pm at the offices of Jackson Lewis with Monique Warren, a Partner in the White Plains, New York office of Jackson Lewis LLP.

Also, if you missed the NRA's "Health Care Law: Next Steps for Restaurateurs" webinar on January 17, it is now available online. A member login is required. Visit http://www.restaurant.org/Events-Networking/Events/Webinars.

Plus, we've got a series of short-but-informative videos at www.garestaurants.org/HealthcareResources - courtesy of UnitedHealthcare.

Credit Card Surcharges & Antitrust Settlement - Cause for Caution

Visa and MasterCard are sounding the alarm that America’s businesses are going to start tacking on millions of dollars in surcharges in coming months for guests who pay by credit card. The National Restaurant Association thinks that’s a tactic to draw attention away from the real issue: That card companies have a stranglehold on merchant swipe fees and don’t want American consumers to know they already pay billions of dollars in hidden swipe fees.

As expected, a federal court last week rejected an appeal by the NRA and other merchants to block a tentative class-action settlement, putting in motion a long series of next steps. This is set to start with court notification of up to 8 million merchants about their potential eligibility for claims in the case. NRA will provide members ongoing information as next steps become clear. No claims will be paid until the court holds a final fairness hearing -- expected in late 2013 at the earliest -- on whether to give final approval to the settlement.

In the meantime, the NRA urges restaurateurs to proceed cautiously if they are approached by third-party companies offering to help merchants “claim” their share of the settlement. Also, be aware of thefine print if you decide to proceed with surcharges.

RSVP: Taste of Georgia Legislative Reception

When: Thursday, February 19, 2013, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Where: The Freight Room at the Georgia Railroad Freight Depot
65 Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive, S.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30334

What: This annual event is an opportunity for GRA members to showcase their food to elected officials, and for our legislators to network with our state’s second largest employer.
Space is Limited - Register Today

Fun Fact:

Dining out is good for business... and not just your business.

Lakshmi Balachandra, of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, recently conducted two experiments. As reported in the Harvard Business Review, "The first compared negotiations that took place over a meal in restaurants to negotiations in conference rooms, without any food to eat. In the second, negotiations were conducted with or without a meal in a business conference room. In the experiments, 132 MBA students negotiated a complex joint venture agreement between two companies."

Those who ate together while negotiating in a restaurant created significantly increased profits compared to those who negotiated without dining. "Individuals who negotiated in restaurants created 12% greater profits and those who negotiated over food in a conference room created 11% greater profits. This suggests that eating while deciding important matters offers profitable, measurable benefits through mutually productive discussions." Read the full article - Should You Eat While You Negotiate?

The Georgia Restaurant Association supports an increase in federal tax deductions for business meals. Business meals were once fully deductible. In 1986, the deduction was reduced to 80 percent. In 1993, the deduction was further reduced to its current level of 50 percent. Both the 1986 and 1993 changes from 100 to 80 to 50 percent were revenue-driven and had no policy basis.

An 80 percent business meal deduction would increase business meal sales by $7 billion. This would boost the overall economy by $22 billion and add 244,000 jobs, according to National Restaurant Association research. Increasing the deduction to 100 percent would have an even more dramatic impact: It would boost business-meal sales by $13 billion; drive a $40 billion increase in the economy overall; and add 442,000 jobs.

And that's not even counting the boost in increased profits experience by those who negotiate while dining out!

Week 2: Norovirus Alert, Important Health Care News, Progress on Federal Immigration Reform

30 Jan 2013 5:47 PM | Kelly Hornbuckle (Administrator)

Norovirus Alert

Late last year, we alerted our members that Norovirus was occurring at 3 times the normal rate in Georgia - and that handwashing was paramount to helping prevent the spread of this gastrointestinal illness. Today, the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness issued a Norovirus warning. In response, we shared the following messages with the media.

- Restaurants take food safety very seriously and we urge our members, and their guests, to stay vigilant and proactive.
- The most important steps in controlling the spread of Norovirus are regular hand washing with soap and water, and avoiding bare hand contact with Ready to Eat foods - practices required in all restaurants by the Georgia Food Code.
- As a public service, we offer free Food Code Briefings for all restaurants, in partnership with the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness, and are in open communication with the Department on how to best contain this outbreak.
- Restaurants focus on food safety year-round. Plus, the GRA offers member discounts on industry-leading ServSafe® Food Safety Training.

Please share these best practices as a refresher for your staff. How to prevent the spread of Norovirus:
• Do not prepare food while sick or until three days after the illness ends
• Wash hands carefully and frequently with soap and water
• Avoid bare hand contact with Ready to Eat food
• Wash fruits and vegetables and cook shellfish thoroughly
• Clean and disinfect kitchen utensils, counters, and surfaces that may have norovirus on them
• Wash table linens, napkins, and other laundry thoroughly

Bill Tracking

Today marked Day 6 in Week 2 of the 40-day Legislative Session. HR 50 sets the calendar of the General Assembly of Georgia through Day 29, Tuesday, March 5th.

On the Front-Burner:

There was not much movement on the legislative front last week as the General Assembly met to amend the 2013 FY budget and to finalize the 2014 budget (effective on July 1st). We are still monitoring the following bills.

HB 58: Breathalyzers - Would require all alcohol retailers (including restaurants) to provide a breathalyzer device to patrons.
The Bill also states:
- The device must be placed in a visible location within the establishment.
- Retailers would not be liable for a patron’s device readings or be required to monitor patrons should they choose to use it.
- Retailers may charge up to a $2.00 fee for device usage.
- Retailers would be provided with a list of approved devices and the device cost would not exceed $2,000.00.
- Failure to provide an approved device after the 30 day requirement period will result in a $100.00 penalty.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 48: Entrapment – Clarifies that under certain circumstances, patrons leaving establishments licensed to sell alcohol are entitled to use entrapment by law enforcement as a defense.
Status: House Second Readers

House Bills:

HB 97: Minimum Wage – Proposes to raise state minimum wage to $6.20 beginning January 1, 2014, and raise each successive year by any cost of living increase. This would not apply to:
- Employers with sales of $50,000 or less per year who have 5 employees or less.
- Any high school/college student employees, those employed by newspaper carriers, non-profit child caring institutions or long-term care facilities serving children or mentally disabled adults.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House First Readers

HB 99: Malt Beverages - Changes the allotted brewing amounts for private home malt beverage producers and allows special event permit to be issued for home-brew events.
- Private residence amounts: 100 gallons a calendar year for single, legal drinking age resident; 200 gallons for two, legal drinking age residents; only 50 gallons can be produced in a 90 day period. Must be consumed on premise.
- Special event permits can be issued to allow home-brew producers to transport product to licensed home-brew events (cost $50.00, valid for up to 6 events in a calendar year).
Status: House First Readers

HB 101: Non-Profit Event Exemption – Exempts certain non-profit events from the foodservice establishment definition. This includes any state, county, municipality events, or public or private school outdoor functions that are sponsored by a political subdivision or tax-exempt organization. Must last 120 hours or less, event sponsor must have a permit.
Status: House First Readers

Senate Bills:

SB 20: Employee Credit Reports – Would prohibit employers from requesting credit reports of current and prospective employees.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

Check for $1.263 Billion Presented at Georgia Tourism & Hospitality Day

Representatives from the tourism & hospitality industries, including the Georgia Restaurant Association, presented Gov. Nathan Deal with a check representing the $1.263 billion in state tax revenue generated from tourism-related expenditures in 2011. “Georgia’s tourism industry is a main driver of our economy and employment with 10.3 percent of all jobs in the state directly or indirectly sustained by tourism activities,” said Deal. “The tourism industry has a positive effect on nearly every community in Georgia.”
Tourism generated $49 billion, an increase of 8.9 percent, in business sales, including indirect and induced impacts. Georgia now ranks seventh in the U.S. in both travel-generated employment and travel expenditures, second only to Florida in the Southeast.

DELAYED: March 1 Employer Health Care Deadline

The Labor Department will delay the health care law's March 1 deadline for employers to begin notifying employees about state-based "health care marketplaces" (a.k.a. exchanges). Required notice includes information on how employees can contact exchanges and which employees may be eligible for financial help to buy insurance on an exchange. DOL has moved the employee-notice rule to late summer or early fall. The reason for the delay: Employers need more time to prepare, and the government hasn't publicized or provided regulatory guidance on critical aspects of the law. More info.FAQs.

HHS Releases Draft Exchange Forms

Also, yesterday the Department of Health & Human Services released drafts of the forms it plans to make available to employees to take to an exchange to find out if they qualify for government assistance to obtain coverage. The HHS also released draft forms for small businesses that want to buy coverage through "SHOP" (Small Business Health Options) exchanges, and forms for employees in these small businesses to enroll in coverage.
The NRA is reviewing these forms and welcomes members' feedback. HHS draft forms for employees seeking government assistance; small businesses buying insurance through SHOP exchanges; small-business employees enrolling in SHOP coverage. Send feedback to Michelle Neblett,mneblett@restaurant.org.

Immigration Reform Making Progress on Federal Level

Throughout our opposition to the HB 87 (Illegal Immigration Reform and Enforcement Act of 2011) we underscored the need for sensible, comprehensive immigration reform at the federal level, including increased border security, a workable employment verification system, a worker program and an earned path to permanent residence for certain undocumented immigrants.
We are pleased to see bipartisan progress on the national level, and applaud any efforts that help address the patchwork of state and local worksite enforcement efforts which restaurants currently face.

RSVP: Taste of Georgia Legislative Reception

When: Thursday, February 19, 2013, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Where: The Freight Room at the Georgia Railroad Freight Depot
65 Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive, S.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30334

What: This annual event is an opportunity for GRA members to showcase their food to elected officials, and for our legislators to network with our state’s second largest employer.
Space is Limited - Register Today

Fun Fact:

Last week we talked about PORC. This week, let's talk about PORK. A favorite of restaurateurs throughout Georgia, commodity prices for pork are forecast to grow 2-10% in the coming year. In contrast, turkey and eggs are the only major commodities for which the USDA expects some downward pressure on prices in 2013.
So what does the price of a pig have to do with politics? To learn more, register for this week's NRA-Exclusive Webinar: "Impact of 2012 Elections on U.S. Agriculture, Commodity Policy" - January 31, 2013 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.

Week 1: A Swift Start, Breathalyzers Lead Bill Tracking

22 Jan 2013 5:38 PM | Kelly Hornbuckle (Administrator)

Session Off to a Swift Start

Last week marked days 40-37 of the 40-day legislative session. An early highlight was HR 23, commending Chef Jay Swift of 4th & Swift for receiving the Restaurateur of the Year GRACE Award. The resolution was sponsored by Speaker of the House David Ralston, Rep. Margaret Kaiser and Rep. Jason Shaw (of Georgia Olive Farms - 2012 GRACE Finalist, Innovator Award). Chef Swift made a moving speech on behalf of Georgia's restaurants and the importance of small businesses to our communities. Watch the video(starts around 40:00).
The General Assembly will reconvene Monday, January 28th for budget and appropriation meetings.

Refresher: How a Bill is Passed in the Georgia Legislature

One of the services the GRA provides is Bill Tracking on the national and state level. What may seem likejust a bill could turn into harmful legislation. To follow along with our bill tracking, brush up with this helpful chart: How a Bill is Passed in the Georgia Legislature. Also, Tracking a Bill Through the General Assembly.

Bill Tracking

On the Front-Burner:

HB 58: Breathalyzers - Would require all alcohol retailers (including restaurants) to provide a breathalyzer device to patrons.
The Bill also states:
- The device must be placed in a visible location within the establishment.
- Retailers would not be liable for a patron’s device readings or be required to monitor patrons should they choose to use it.
- Retailers may charge up to a $2.00 fee for device usage.
- Retailers would be provided with a list of approved devices and the device cost would not exceed $2,000.00.
- Failure to provide an approved device after the 30 day requirement period will result in a $100.00 penalty.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Second Readers

HB 48: Entrapment – Clarifies that under certain circumstances, patrons leaving establishments licensed to sell alcohol are entitled to use entrapment by law enforcement as a defense.
Status: House Second Readers

House Bills:

HB 97: Minimum Wage – Proposes to raise state minimum wage to $6.20 beginning January 1, 2014, and raise each successive year by any cost of living increase. This would not apply to:
- Employers with sales of $50,000 or less per year who have 5 employees or less.
- Any high school/college student employees, those employed by newspaper carriers, non-profit child caring institutions or long-term care facilities serving children or mentally disabled adults.
Note: GRA opposes this bill and is commenting on behalf of the restaurant industry.
Status: House Hopper

HB 99: Malt Beverages - Changes the allotted brewing amounts for private home malt beverage producers and allows special event permit to be issued for home-brew events.
- Private residence amounts: 100 gallons a calendar year for single, legal drinking age resident; 200 gallons for two, legal drinking age residents; only 50 gallons can be produced in a 90 day period. Must be consumed on premise.
- Special event permits can be issued to allow home-brew producers to transport product to licensed home-brew events (cost $50.00, valid for up to 6 events in a calendar year).
Status: House Hopper

HB 101: Non-Profit Event Exemption – Exempts certain non-profit events from the foodservice establishment definition. This includes any state, county, municipality events, or public or private school outdoor functions that are sponsored by a political subdivision or tax-exempt organization. Must last 120 hours or less, event sponsor must have a permit.
Status: House Hopper

Senate Bills:

SB 20: Employee Credit Reports – Would prohibit employers from requesting credit reports of current and prospective employees.
Status: Senate Read and Referred

Arby’s Foundation Commits $3 Million to "No Kid Hungry in Georgia" Campaign

On Thursday, January 10, with the help of Governor Nathan Deal, Arby’s President Hala Moddelmog, and Arby’s Foundation Executive Director Kate Atwood, the Arby's Foundation committed $3 million to help end childhood hunger in Georgia. We were on-hand to help celebrate the announcement at the Capitol, and applaud Arby's for taking such a strong leadership role.

Coming Soon: Taste of Georgia Legislative Reception

When: Thursday, February 19, 2013, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Where: The Freight Room at the Georgia Railroad Freight Depot
65 Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive, S.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30334

What: This annual event is an opportunity for GRA members to showcase their food to elected officials, and for our legislators to network with our state’s second largest employer.
Space is Limited - Register Today

Fun Fact:

Did you know that PORK is really PORC? According to the AJC's immensely useful "Legis-speak: A Gold Dome Glossary," Projects of Regional Concern (PORC) are put into the budget to help one area or legislator. These "used to be small grants for ballfield lights, band uniforms, small-town park improvements, etc." but are "now more likely to be bond projects, with the state borrowing money for construction or improvements."

SCOTUS Rulings, New Laws, Golf Tournament

02 Jul 2012 5:04 PM | Kelly Hornbuckle (Administrator)

SCOTUS Rulings

Health Care Law: Compliance Efforts Move Forward
On June 28th the high court affirmed most provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). "Implementation is going to continue," Jennifer Kraft, an attorney with Seyfarth Shaw, told nearly 400 National Restaurant Association members who participated in a June 29 NRA webinar on the Supreme Court decision. "Employers should start looking ahead about how the employer mandate would affect them."

To learn how this decision will impact you and your business, visit the Health Care Knowledge Center.

In the News

We have taken a public stance in opposition to the employer mandate of PPACA and have been featured in news outlets such as the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 11Alive and Marketplace.

Immigration: Supreme Court Rules on Arizona's Policing Law

On June 25, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Arizona v. United States, voting 5-3 to block three provisions of Arizona's controversial 2010 policing law while upholding the section that requires police to inquire about the immigration status of people they stop for other reasons who they suspect are in the country illegally. Many observers see the ruling as a split decision, offering a little something to both sides in the case. Others believe it will deal a significant blow to immigration lawmaking in the states, leaving less room than many are anticipating for state enforcement and other measures.Analysis from ImmigrationWorks USA.

This decision comes in the wake of President Obama's executive order "Exercising Prosecutorial Discretion with Respect to Individuals Who Came to the United States as Children." It remains to be seen exactly how the Supreme Court's ruling may affect state immigration legislation, including Georgia's Illegal Immigration Reform and Enforcement Act of 2011 (HB 87).

Effective July 1: Next Step in Georgia's E-Verify Requirement

Georgia's Illegal Immigration Reform and Enforcement Act of 2011 (HB 87) became law on July 1, 2011. It requires all employers with 10 or more employees to use E-Verify, the online federal work authorization program.

- Employers with 500 employees or more are required to utilize E-Verify effective January 1, 2012.

- Employers with 100 employees or more but less than 500 are required to utilize E-Verify effective July 1, 2012.

- Employers with 11 employees or more but less than 100 are required to utilize E-Verify effective July 1, 2013.

Also, to renew a business license, an affidavit must be signed indicating that the employer is using E-Verify. The law gives businesses 30 days to correct any “good faith” violations before they face penalties for not complying with the E-Verify requirement. More information.

Law Tracking

Legislators often use July 1 as an effective date for their bills because it is the start of the state’s fiscal year.

HB 683: Garnishment - Grants businesses the power to file garnishment requests instead of having to hire legal counsel. Saves members thousands of dollars.
Status: Successfully Supported
Effective: Feb/07/2012

HB 472: Brewpub - Increases the amount of beer brewpubs can produce annual from 5,000 to 10,000 barrels, and allows sales to distributors.

Status: Successfully Supported

Effective: Jul/01/2012

HB 100: Tax Court - Establishes a tax court, providing streamlined resolution and alleviating unpredictability in recent proliferation of tax audits.

Status: Successfully Supported

Effective: Jul/01/2012

HB 514: Distilled Spirits - Allows for free on-premise tastings at distilleries.

Status: Successfully Supported

Effective: Jul/01/2012

HB 713: Quality Education Act Extension - Extends by one year the planning period to better prepare the career pathways initiative. We are advising on the hospitality pathway.

Status: Successfully Supported

Effective: Jul/01/2012

HB 347: Unemployment - Cuts length of state unemployment benefits, increases rate. We don’t support rate increase, but do support stabilizing the fund. The new maximum falls between 14 and 20 weeks, down from 26 weeks. The actual length grows when the state’s unemployment rate rises.

Status: Neutral

Effective: Jul/01/2012

HB 1066: Alcohol License & Fees - Staggers license renewal dates, changes provisions on distance requirements and license fees for special event applicants.

Status: Successfully Supported

Effective: Jul/01/2012

GRA-PAC Scores Hole in One with Inaugural Golf Invitational

Many thanks to all of the sponsors, players, legislators, restaurants and volunteers who helped make our Inaugural Golf Invitational a smashing success. The tournament was held on June 26th at Ansley Golf Course at Settindown Creek and was presented by Coca-Cola. In addition to a sold-out course and delicious tastings from Bhojanic, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Low Country BBQ, and Pitty Pat's Porch, we collected over 250 lbs of food donations for the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

The funds raised support the GRA-PAC - the only Political Action Committee dedicated to serving the restaurant industry in Georgia. Your contributions help us fight legislation that can hurt your business and organize grassroots campaigns to advocate for our industry. We are now accepting reservations for next year's golf tournament.