The sixth week of the 2007 Legislative Session has now drawn to a close. Only 16 days remain in this year's Session, and many important issues remain on the table.

The General Assembly welcomed four members of Georgia's Congressional delegation this week. Senators Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson, along with U.S. Representatives Sanford Bishop and Hank Johnson, visited the State Capitol to brief lawmakers on the PeachCare funding crisis. All assured state lawmakers that they support the program and are committed to its reauthorization later this year. They also gave assurances that they are working on a fix to Georgia's short-term financial shortfall.

On Friday, I introduced a comprehensive bill dealing with the state's certificate of need (CON) process. As mentioned in previous weeks, this issue is being debated for the first time in a number of years, and has major implications for healthcare in Georgia. My bill attempts to ensure that Georgians have a multitude of healthcare options while preserving access for all our citizens. This bill will be considered by the Special Committee on CON.

The Health Subcommittee of Appropriations, which I chair, began work this week on the 2008 Budget. We heard testimony from the Department of Community Health and various interested individuals. We will have a number of other public hearings before this budget goes to the full House for consideration.

I was pleased to welcome Rob Jackson and two of his FFA students from Oglethorpe County High School to the Capitol. It is always great to see constituents and friends in Atlanta. If you are planning a trip to the Capitol, please contact my office in advance so that we can arrange a time and place for a visit.

I will keep you posted on these issues as they continue to move through the legislative process. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me. During the session, I can always be reached at 404-656-7855; mickey.channell@house.ga.gov; or State Capitol, Room 401, Atlanta, Georgia 30334.