General Assembly; authorization of statutory investigatory powers to certain committees of the General Assembly; codify a process

Georgia legislative committees gain formal investigation powers

The law creates a formal process for authorizing Georgia legislative committees to investigate. Each chamber can authorize its standing committees through rules or a resolution; joint committees need joint rules or a resolution. Authorized committees can administer oaths, require sworn testimony and records, take depositions, and issue subpoenas under their authorizing rules. Subpoenas can be served anywhere in Georgia using legally authorized methods. If someone refuses to comply, the committee can ask the local superior court to require an explanation and impose contempt penalties. Confidential treatment of investigation materials is legally protected when the committee’s authorizing rules or resolution allow it. Courts must protect subpoena applications requesting confidentiality, but need not keep the subpoena itself confidential. If the court rejects confidentiality, the chair can withdraw the request and keep the application private, or proceed publicly. The law preserves existing legislative powers, privileges, and immunities, along with previously authorized investigations, subpoenas, and actions. It took effect upon the Governor’s approval or becoming law without approval.