ATLANTA (AP) - Georgia lawmakers are advancing a proposed state constitutional amendment that would let members meet electronically or away from the state Capitol during a pandemic or disaster.
The House voted 151-6 on Tuesday for Senate Resolution 19. It goes back to the Senate for more debate.
The measure would require voters statewide to decide on the changes in a referendum.
The amendment would let the General Assembly choose another place or electronic means of meeting as long as lawmakers and the general public can see and hear any meetings.
It also requires that all lawmakers must be able to see the contents of legislation being considered and be able to submit proposed legislation or amendments through electronic means.
House Majority Leader Jon Burns, a Newington Republican, told House members the current COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced lawmakers to meet under difficult conditions, has proved the need for more flexibility.