Georgia Utility Contractors Association Inc. held its annual Lobby Day Feb. 14 at the Georgia Capitol.

More than 30 GUCA members enjoyed a free breakfast buffet before being welcomed by GUCA President Jeff Steele of Steele & Associates Inc. Mo Thrash, GUCA’s lobbyist, then presented the group with a 2006 legislative session update.

GUCA members were given an insider’s look at key legislative session issues that pertain to utility contractors by members of the House and Senate. Presenters included: Sen. Mitch Seabaugh, majority whip; Sen. Chip Pearson, secretary of the transportation committee; Sen. Steve Davis; Sen. Chip Rogers; Sen. Brian Kemp; Sen. Casey Cagle, candidate for lieutenant governor; Rep. Jeff Lewis, candidate for Georgia agricultural commissioner; and Rep. Jerry Keen, House majority leader.

GUCA members were also welcomed and greeted by a letter from Secretary of State Cathy Cox, Democratic candidate for governor.

Several House and Senate bills were mentioned that could have an effect on GUCA members. The most prominent issues concerned SB 530 Lien Law, HB 1056 Contracts for Public Works/Illegal Immigrants, HB 1090 DOT Project Delays and HB 1106 Vehicle Weight of Construction Aggregates — To Add Construction to Weight Load.

Many of the members thanked the Senators and Representatives for their work on these issues.

Thrash gave the GUCA members present an update on what is occurring at the Capitol. They were given handouts with information about grassroots lobbying, government history and protocol.

Following the presentations, GUCA members were escorted to the House and Senate chambers for a tour of the Capitol and were welcomed by additional House and Senate members. After the day’s session began, GUCA members were given the time to call their personal Representative and Senator off the chamber floor to discuss utility contractors key issues.

All legislators were presented with roadside safety kit flashlights and an invitation to attend the 2006 GUCA Spring Quarterly Meeting on March 23 at the Freight Depot in Atlanta.

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