Cobb Reporter

State Representative Jordan Ridley (R-Woodstock) has introduced House Bills 879 and 898, proposing a per diem compensation of $25.00 a day and an increased income tax deduction for members of the State Defense Force. His office states that these bills are designed to support the defense force's service in emergencies and civic duties.

The Georgia General Assembly released a statement in which Ridley said, "House Bills 879 and 898 would provide a two-prong approach to helping take care of our valuable State Defense Force members. These are common-sense solutions to support our hard-working and much-deserving State Defense Force members who work to ensure the welfare and safety of all Georgians. I urge my fellow colleagues to favorably consider HB 879 and HB 898 and look forward to seeing these bills make their way through the legislative process this session."

According to another press release by the Georgia General Assembly, the proposed legislation outlines eligible services for members of the State Defense Force. This includes activities such as drills, training, field exercises, civic engagement, and other duties essential to the organization's mission. The legislation also seeks to provide a $2,500 tax exemption for individuals who dedicate their entire taxable year to State Defense Force service, requiring certification of good standing from their unit commander. Currently, State Defense Force members do not receive per diem or tax deductions on their Georgia taxable income.

In further information provided by the Georgia General Assembly, it is stated that the Georgia State Defense Force operates under the direction of the governor and the Adjutant General of Georgia as a legally constituted element of the Georgia Department of Defense. Ordered by the adjutant general, their mission is providing a disciplined, trained, rapid response volunteer force for assistance in emergencies to state and local government agencies and civil relief organizations.

Ridley's profile according to the Georgia General Assembly shows that he was elected in 2022 representing District 22, which encompasses parts of Cherokee and Cobb counties. He currently serves as the Secretary of the Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications Committee and is a member of the Code Revision, Public Safety, and Homeland Security committees.