Speaker Jon Burns Announces $1.25 Million to Fund Georgia State Patrol Satellite Post in Buckhead Area of Atlanta

Speaker of the House Jon Burns (R-Newington) announced that the House version of the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget will contain $1.25 million for the Georgia Department of Public Safety to establish and operate a Georgia State Patrol satellite post in the Buckhead area of the City of Atlanta. Speaker Burns made the announcement in conjunction with Governor Brian Kemp and Lt. Governor Burt Jones who join in support of the proposal.

“Public safety is paramount to the quality of life our citizens enjoy, and I’m proud to work with Governor Kemp and Lt. Governor Jones on this important issue,” said Speaker Jon Burns. “This new state patrol office will improve the ability of our state troopers to respond to incidents along and inside the northern perimeter. It will also increase the visibility of our state law enforcement in this densely-populated area.”

“Our new facility is not meant to supplant the City of Atlanta’s police department,” continued Speaker Burns. “On the contrary, it is my hope this new facility will allow for better coordination and cooperation between local and state law enforcement when it comes to serving our residents and visitors.”

“On all levels in Georgia, we’re demonstrating we will not tolerate crime or street gangs,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Through strong partnerships with both state and local leaders, we’re bringing the fight to those who threaten our communities. This newest post will be the latest example of those partnerships at work, and I’m thankful for both the House and Senate’s shared dedication to this effort.”

“Addressing crime and working with law enforcement to tackle the issue head on is a top priority I will not waiver on,” said Lt. Governor Burt Jones. “Funding for this new satellite post will increase resources for an area in the state where citizens have been seeking a larger law enforcement presence. By working together, the city, county and state can increase public safety for citizens while supporting existing efforts and initiatives.”

The $1.25 million in funding will allow the Department of Public Safety to acquire mission-appropriate space and equip the facility for use. The satellite post will be able to accommodate up to 20 existing troopers detailed from the motor unit and the Nighthawks DUI Task Force.

The House version of the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget will be before the House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday and, from there, will go to the House floor for consideration in the near future. Once approved by the House, it will move onto the Senate for consideration before reaching Governor Kemp’s desk.

The FY 2024 Budget will fund state government from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024.