State Representative Rhonda Burnough
Georgia State House District 77
Representing Riverdale, Forest Park, College Park and unincorporated Riverdale
Click the image above each entry or the date in red to view website link if available.
January 9, 2023
“It is really unfortunate that the life of an individual is not valued,” said Rep. Burnough. “More importantly, it is a shame that none of those police officers were willing to stand up and do the right thing.”
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July 26, 2022
“What makes this so significant is that fathers can come together to grieve and connect with others who have lost a child,” Burnough said during the highway dedication.
March 21, 2022
Georgia Democrats spoke just outside the state Capitol Monday afternoon to address Governor Brian Kemp's support of anti-Critical Race Theory bills.
October 27, 2021
Democratic state lawmakers gathered Tuesday to urge Gov. Brian Kemp to add Medicaid expansion to the agenda of next week's special legislative session.
March 25, 2021
State Rep. Burnough speaks to Senate Bill 202 on the House floor
March 18, 2021
New omnibus election bill appears in Georgia House, sparks backlash
Democrats on the committee cried foul over the speed and sparse advance notice of the bill, as did some voting-rights advocates who spoke up to denounce what they view as closed-door crafting of legislation that would bring major changes to how, when and where Georgians can vote.
“I’m just trying to understand the process here of how we’re doing things,” said Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale. “Are we just taking bills piece-by-piece and just putting them in when we want to? … Something’s not right.”
Click here to read the article.
March 1, 2021
Georgia House passes sweeping voting bill, advances to Senate
“Georgia Republicans are lashing out after the back to back losses in the last election cycle and trying to turn back the clock on our voting rights,” said state Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale.
Click here to watch the video.
February 18, 2021
Georgia Republicans File Sweeping Elections Bill That Limits Early, Absentee Voting
Rep. Rhonda Burnough (D-Riverdale) expressed concern that Democrats did not have any input into the 48-page measure, and the quick timing of the bill.
February 4, 2021
Special Georgia House committee approves new absentee ballot request deadline
"Burnough's amendment would change the language from "no absentee by mail ballot shall be mailed or issued by the registrars or absentee ballot clerk if there are less than ten days remaining before a primary or election" to "the registar or absentee ballot clerk shall mail an absentee by mail ballot to any eligible voter who requests an absentee by mail ballot ten or more days before an election."
January 12, 2021
Georgia House Democratic Caucus seek more aggressive plan to fight new strain of COVID-19
“The Georgia House Democratic Caucus (GHDC) Subcommittee on COVID-19 is urging Gov. Brian Kemp take more aggressive action to slow the spread of a new strain of COVID-19. The new strain, recently confirmed in Georgia, is reported to be more contagious.
Members of the subcommittee, which includes State Representatives Rhonda Burnough (D-Riverdale), Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain), Shelly Hutchinson (D-Snellville), Donna McLeod (D-Lawrenceville), Sandra Scott (D-Rex) and Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) are asking Kemp to re-evaluate his current response plan regarding the spread of COVID-19 within the state of Georgia.”
Click here to read the full article.
January 9, 2023
Rep. Rhonda Burnough (D-77, Riverdale) has resigned as head of the Clayton County Legislative Delegation.
April 5, 2022
"We're coming up with a whole lot of requirements for them, but nobody wants to give them any money to either hire extra people or make sure everything runs smoothly," said state Rep. Rhonda Burnough, a Democrat from Riverdale.
March 1, 2022
Georgia Democrats spoke just outside the state Capitol Monday afternoon to address Governor Brian Kemp's support of anti-Critical Race Theory bills.
October 1, 2021
“I find it insulting that the commissioner, who is an elected official like us, would now want to shift the responsibility for unemployment claims to the legislators,” Burnough said. “Legislators have tried to work with him over the past two years to resolve unemployment claims, and now he wants us to work together. This Legislator Portal would be an insult to all those Georgians who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. We are not going to sit back and sing ‘Kumbaya.’ We are going to continue to push for a federal investigation of the GDOL.”
March 23, 2021
Georgia panel passes bill to limit drop boxes, expand weekend voting
“People like the drop boxes. I don’t know why, if someone likes something, we need to get rid of it,” said state Rep. Rhonda Burnough, a Democrat from Riverdale. “And then we’ve got to have a guard sitting next to it — that’s a form of intimidation.”
March 15, 2021
Ga. House thanks Congress for unemployment investigation
“And a lot of these things are very simple things. Like we’re still getting people–I had a couple of people e-mail for their PIN. You know? Things that people, if you had–we asked for a call center. If I could just talk to somebody for 10 minutes, talk to them, they’d reset my PIN, then I could go on about my way. One guy, he was waiting on the [debit] card because the money’s in the bank, but he can’t use it, because he doesn’t have the debit card. And so, it’s little things like that that become frustrating, and those are things that could have been resolved early on. Those are things that did not have to happen. And I think that if [Georgia Department of Labor Commissioner Mark Butler] had resolved the little things that were going on, I think that the big things would have taken care fo themselves. People just want somebody to talk to. And they never did get that opportunity.”,” said state Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale.
Click here to read the article.
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February 22, 2021
Watch the 2021 Clayton County Legislative Delegation Virtual Forum
Click here to watch the video.
February 4, 2021
Ga. House committee advances bill to set earlier ballot request deadline
Rep. Rhonda Burnough, a Riverdale Democrat, said she’s worried without the additional week, longer lines will result in the final week of early voting or on Election Day.
Click here to read the full article.
February 2, 2021
Rhonda Burnough appointed to minority deputy whip team for 2021-22 legislative term
"Burnough was appointed by House Minority Whip David Wilkerson (D-Powder Springs), and her appointment is for the 2021-2022 legislative term, which is concurrent with her service as member of the Georgia House of Representatives."
December 23, 2020
Georgia elections chief seeks to end no-excuse absentee voting
“This will disenfranchise a lot of voters because they wouldn’t want to come out and stand in line,” said state Rep. Rhonda Burnough, a Democrat from Riverdale. ”If you don’t want to have a no-excuse-based system for absentee voting, what are we going to do about all the lines and the perception that Georgia doesn’t know how to run an election?”
Click here to read the full article.
December 3, 2020
Democrats call on Ga. Department of Labor to establish 24/7 call center
Rep. Rhonda Burnough, who represents District 77 in Clayton County, said she and other representatives still get two or three people calling each day seeking help on unemployment issues, unable to reach anyone at the state phone line at 1-800-GEORGIA (1-800-436-7442).
Click here to read the full article.
July 27, 2022
“We know that the road naming or the honoring will not bring back their son or their daughter, but we want them to know that we appreciate [them] and we are with them and the ultimate sacrifice that was made,” Burnough said at the ceremony.
March 30, 2022
Rep. Rhonda Burnough (D-77, Riverdale) concurred: “After listening to families struggle with the decision to call 911 on a family member who suffer from mental illness this will be a welcome relief,” she said. “No one wants their relative to be placed in jail for a condition that needs hospitalization. Our county has the money to build a mental health facility but we need the state to provide funding for the employees. I hope the state will consider building a regional center for individuals suffering from mental health [issues] on the South Side. This would be a welcome relief to our law enforcement and paramedics.”
March 1, 2022
Georgia Democrats spoke just outside the state Capitol Monday afternoon to address Governor Brian Kemp's support of anti-Critical Race Theory bills.
July 27, 2021
Franklin seeks state, federal road safety funds
“State Rep. Rhonda Burnough has a very personal reason for backing the funding request: “The increase of pedestrian deaths on Tara Boulevard is a concern for me especially since one of the victims was the parent of a student at Hawthorne Elementary. The Clayton County Delegation plans to make it a part of our legislative priorities when we return to session. However, in the interim, we plan to set up a meeting with the [Board of] Commissioners and Georgia Department of Transportation to determine what we can do immediately.”
March 22, 2021
New version of voting bill passes out of committee, adds back Sunday early voting
Riverdale lawmaker Rhonda Burnough said by shortening voting days and making absentee voting more complicated, you can expect to see more African Americans voting on those Sundays.
“I’m sure that once we start to continue to reduce the number of days and the fact of who can get an absentee ballot and who cannot, that those numbers will increase on Sunday,” Burnough said.
March 3, 2021
Georgia House Dems Condemn Passage of HB 531: ‘This Is A Step In The Wrong Direction’
“Georgia Republicans are lashing out after their back to back losses in the last election cycle and trying to turn the clock back on voting rights,” said Representative Rhonda Burnough (D-Dist. 77, Riverdale).
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February 19, 2021
Watch State Rep. Burnough on MSNBC's the Rachel Maddow Show!
Rep. Rhonda Burnough discussed the Georgia Republicans unexpected introduction of an elections bill limiting early and absentee voting.
Click here to watch the video, which starts around the 16:58 mark.
February 4, 2021
Bill setting earlier Georgia absentee ballot request deadline advances
State Rep. Rhonda Burnough, a Democrat from Riverdale, said voters need a full set of absentee and in-person opportunities in the days prior to an election.
January 19, 2021
Georgia Legislators Officially Request Commission on Slavery Reparations
“The Georgia House Democratic Caucus (GHDC) Subcommittee on COVID-19 is urging Gov. Brian Kemp take more aggressive action to slow the spread of a new strain of COVID-19. The new strain, recently confirmed in Georgia, is reported to be more contagious.
Members of the subcommittee, which includes State Representatives Rhonda Burnough (D-Riverdale), Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain), Shelly Hutchinson (D-Snellville), Donna McLeod (D-Lawrenceville), Sandra Scott (D-Rex) and Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) are asking Kemp to re-evaluate his current response plan regarding the spread of COVID-19 within the state of Georgia.”
December 9, 2020
Clayton Board of Education celebrates outgoing board members
Rep. Rhonda Burnough presented Burroughs with House Resolution 1651 recognizing and commending Burroughs for her service to Clayton County and her retirement. Before her time on the board Burroughs taught English at Jonesboro High for 23 years.
October 20, 2020
State House Dems call for congressional investigation of Department of Labor over unemployment
"As elected officials, we truly hope our federal and state legislature and administration can work in true partnership to address the backlog in unemployment insurance claims to help stop the suffering of our constituents," the letter states.
It was signed by Georgia House Democratic Caucus Chairman Rep. James Beverly, Rep. Rhonda Burnough, Rep. Viola Davis, Rep. Kim Schofield, Rep. Sandra G. Scott and Rep. Shelly Hutchinson.
October 19, 2020
Rep. Burnough, members of Georgia House Democratic Caucus Subcommittee on COVID-19 request congressional investigation into Georgia Department of Labor
ATLANTA – State Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale, along with other members of the Georgia House Democratic Caucus Subcommittee on COVID-19, recently submitted a letter to U.S. Congressman Hank Johnson calling for the U.S. Congress to investigate the Georgia Department of Labor’s Unemployment Insurance payment processes.
“Georgians who lost their jobs as a result of COVID-19 and are waiting for their Unemployment Insurance payments should be able to contact the Georgia Department of Labor and have their concerns addressed,” said Burnough. “Since the U.S. Department of Labor has awarded the state a million dollars to inquire about the fraud claims, the GDOL should dedicate a portion of their staff to deal with fraud, while the others continue to work on paying the claims in a timely manner.”
September 01, 2020
State Rep. Burnough encourages residents in House District 77 to participate in 2020 U.S. Census
ATLANTA – State Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale, is encouraging residents in House District 77 to participate in the 2020 U.S. Census before the Sept. 30 deadline. As of Sept. 1, Georgia’s self-response rate was 60.2 percent, which is behind the national average of 64.6 percent; Clayton County’s response rate was 57.4 percent.
“We need residents in House District 77 to complete the 2020 U.S. Census before the deadline,” said Burnough. “Residents are always asking why we don’t have certain restaurants and businesses in our neighborhood. The decision-making starts with census data. Let’s let them know we are open for business.”
August 26, 2020
Democratic state legislators urge Gov. Kemp to issue statewide mask mandate
“As the number of COVID-19 cases rise daily, so do the number of deaths,” said Burnough. “If we can prevent just one person from contracting COVID-19 or even one person from dying by mandating the wearing of masks statewide, why wouldn’t we do so? Perhaps doing so will help us get this pandemic under control.”
April 29, 2020
Clayton planning for tough future, school alternatives amid pandemic
“The state could face a $4 million shortfall over the next 15 months without federal aid, likely meaning furloughs and layoffs across the government,” state Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale, told the audience. “The shortfall could top 10% to 20% of the current state spending, which goes for everything from teacher salaries to prisons to health care to road building and other programs.”
April 09, 2020
Clayton holding town hall Friday to address coronavirus impact on county
Clayton residents hoping to get more information about the impact of the coronavirus on the county have a couple of opportunities to have their questions answered this week.
County Commissioner Felicia Franklin-Warner is holding a discussion on emotional well-being during the pandemic at 2 p.m. Thursday on mixx106radio.com.
Her guests will be Ga. Rep. Rhonda Burnough, Center for Behavioral Health Program Counselor Miki Savage and nurse Renae Patterson.
March 26, 2020
Clayton Legislative Delegation holding virtual town hall meetings to address COVID-19 questions
The Clayton County Legislative Delegation, which was exposed to COVID-19 while addressing the emergency under the Gold Dome, will hold a a series of virtual town hall meetings to address constituent concerns about the COVID-19 emergency, elections and the U.S. Census.
• On Saturday, March 28 at 10 a.m., the Clayton County Legislative Delegation will hold a Virtual Town Hall meeting by phone on Zoom.
March 20, 2020
Clayton Legislative Delegation self-quarantining after entire General Assembly exposed to COVID-19
JONESBORO—The entire Clayton legislative delegation, along with the full Georgia Assembly, is now in self-quarantine after State Sen. Brandon Beach, R-Alpharetta, exposed them to COVID-19.
The situation only adds to the difficulty of governing under the coronavirus emergency. Rep. Rhonda Burnough said the Clayton County Delegation will hold a virtual town hall meeting at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 28. Information on how to take part in the meeting will go out next week, she added.
"If constituents have questions, they can e-mail us at our Senate or House e-mail addresses," Burnough said. "It will be our firstname.lastname at house.ga.gov" — for example, rhonda.burnough@house.ga.gov .
March 10, 2020
Clayton, Henry women leaders lay down marker against human trafficking in Red Sand ceremony
Burnough said she had everyone wear white in honor of International Women’s Day “because women know that we are very powerful. We make a decision and changes come within our community.” She said she is “that nosy neighbor” who turned in two men in a car who had picked up a couple of girls in her neighborhood and she urged others to do likewise.
“Just because (a house) is quiet doesn’t make it good. It just makes it quiet,” Burnough said. “And we’ve seen so many times on TV where people have been in houses for years and have been held captive.”
January 28, 2020
Bill to create partisan primary for US Senate race advances
A panel of Georgia representatives voted Monday in favor of creating a partisan primary in the state’s upcoming U.S. Senate election, introducing a new challenge to Republican Sen. Kelly Loeffler’s candidacy despite Gov. Brian Kemp’s veto threat.
January 18, 2020
Gold Star Fathers Recognition Day Can Go National (page 33)
“Recognizing Gold Star Fathers on a national level will not only allow them to personally honor their child’s sacrifice, but will also provide Americans with one more opportunity to acknowledge the bravery of our military heroes,” concludes Rep. Burnough.
November 21, 2019
Congressman Johnson, Woodall introduce bipartisan “Gold Star Father’s Day” to honor veteran families
The bipartisan effort stems from the work done in 2018 on Georgia’s state level, where State Rep. Rhonda Burnough (D-77 Riverdale) introduced the unanimously passed H.R. 655, which designated Nov. 9 as Gold Star Father’s Day in Georgia.
October 03, 2019
Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and State Legislator Host Voting System Demonstration in Clayton County
(ATLANTA) – Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and State Representative Valencia Stovall (HD 74) hosted a demonstration to showcase the new paper based voting systems. The demonstration was led by Secretary of State Election Director Chris Harvey and was accompanied by representatives from Dominion Voting.
“This is an opportunity for citizens to practice casting their ballots, ask any questions they may have, and learn about the new, improved voting system that all counties will use in upcoming elections,” said Raffensperger.
The event was held at the Frank Bailey Senior Center in Clayton County. Participants were able to learn about the new system, ask questions, and participate in a mock election, casting their ballot. Attendees included Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, Representative Valencia Stovall (HD 74), Representative Rhonda Burnough (HD 77), and Clayton County residents.
May 20, 2019
Mayfest draws crowd to Lovejoy
Some of the morning talent included the Cotton’Nem Band, old school music from Tyrone Jenkins, lip syncing from Maurice “Big Mitch” Mitchell, and members of a combined singing and dancing team from county senior centers. Speakers included Morcease J. Beasley, Clayton County school superintendent, and Charles A. Brooks, chief assistant solicitor general. Rep. Rhonda Burnough read a proclamation. The afternoon program featured the band Leonard Julien and Friends.
May 16, 2019
Clayton County Gold Dome legislative wrap
JONESBORO — Longtime members of the Georgia House Delegation called this legislative session, which ended April 2, the ugliest they’d ever seen and described their efforts to get Clayton County a seat at the table as Atlanta and state officials carve up Hartsfield-Jackson revenues.
Other hot topics at the End of Session Forum May 16 at the Clayton County Library Headquarters in Jonesboro included the abortion bill; maternal health; feminine hygiene product access, ingredients and warnings; Rep. Valencia Stovall’s e-mail chains with Clayton County School Superintendent Dr. Morcease Beasley and Forest Park Councilwoman Latresa Wells; and Gov. Brian Kemp’s veto of the recess bill.
The delegation includes Sen. Valencia Seay, D-Riverdale; Sen. Gail Davenport, D-Jonesboro; Rep. Kim Schofield, D-Atlanta, Rep. Debra Bazemore, D-South Fulton; Rep. Valencia Stovall, D-Forest Park; Rep. Mike Glanton, D-Jonesboro; Rep. Sandra Scott, D-Rex; Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale; and Rep. Demetrius Douglas, D-Stockbridge. Glanton and Davenport were not present at the meeting.
March 11, 2019
State lawmakers call for unity on airport bill
JONESBORO — Many of Clayton County’s most powerful political players turned out for an emergency meeting about the airport takeover bill at school board headquarters Monday.
Rep. Rhonda Burnough called on local leaders to take “collective” action, to get their constituents up to speed on Senate Bill 131 — the Georgia Major Airport Authority Act , which as of press time sits in the House Rules Committee and the Senate Transportation Committee — and to be ready to come to the Gold Dome if called.
Among those present were Clayton County Commission Chair Jeff Turner, Commissioners Felicia Franklin Warner and Demont Davis, Chief Operating Officer Detrick Sanford, Rep. Valencia Stovall, Clayton County Tax Commissioner Terry Baskin, Clayton County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Morcease Beasley, Rep. Mike Glanton, Rep. Kim Schofield, Rep. Debra Bazemore, Mayor Joy Day and City Manager Ricky Clark Jr. of Jonesboro, Mayor Paul DeTar of Morrow, Mayor Ron Dodson and City Manager Chris Leighty of Lake City, Clayton County School Board Chair Jessie Goree and members Victoria Williams and Dr. Aleika Anderson, County Attorney Jack Hancock, Forest Park City Manager Angela Redding and City Attorney Michael Williams, Riverdale City Attorney Erin Wiggins and others.
February 08, 2019
Lottery could be ticket to ending veteran homelessness
The legislation would not divert funds from existing homelessness or veterans’ organizations, she added, nor would it take away HOPE scholarship funds.
HB 14 is before the House Appropriations Committee and would allow the Georgia Lottery Corporation to offer one or more lottery games to assist homeless military veterans in Georgia. Proceeds would go into the state’s general fund. From there, the governor would make specific recommendations on how best to appropriate the funds for ending homelessness, preventing near-term homelessness and providing veterans with safe and secure living conditions.
HR 7 would create a companion constitutional amendment, giving the General Assembly the power to appropriate those lottery proceeds for the benefit of homeless veterans.
Cosponsors of both measures include Rep. Rhonda Burnough (D-Riverdale), Rep. Billy Mitchell (D-Stone Mountain), Rep. Sharon Beasley-Teague (D-Red Oak), Rep. Sheila Nelson (D-Augusta), and Rep. Park Cannon(D-Atlanta).
January 24, 2019
Clayton delegation’s Gold Dome priorities
ATLANTA — The Clayton County Legislative Delegation has announced its priorities under the Gold Dome this session.
Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale, who chairs the delegation through 2020, will present local leaders’ legislation on the House floor, including requests from the Board of Commissioners, Clayton County Public Schools, State Court, Solicitor General’s Office, and City of Forest Park, as well as the Clayton County Chamber of Commerce. House Bill 34, cosponsored by Burnough, Rep. Valencia Stovall, D-Forest Park, Rep. Deborah Bazemore, D-Riverdale, Rep. Mike Glanton, D-Jonesboro, and Schofield, would rein in controversial development authority appointments and allow business taxpayers to sit on those boards.
Burnough also continues her work on behalf of Georgia’s Gold Star Fathers. Burnough’s district covers parts of Clayton County. She serves on the Economic Development and Tourism, Governmental Affairs, Higher Education, and Small Business Development Committees.
January 24, 2019
State HB 34 would rein in development authorities
ATLANTA — A bill that would allow business owners to serve as directors of development authority boards and crack down on any member’s “unethical or dishonorable conduct” is up for consideration in the Georgia House of Representatives. If passed, the bill would strengthen the power of local governments statewide to hold those boards accountable.
House Bill 34, which is cosponsored by Reps. Rhonda Burnough, D-77, Valencia Stovall, D-74, Debra Bazemore , D-63, Mike Glanton, D-75 and Kim SchofieldD-60, would revise existing state code on development authorities, allowing the authority director to be “residents or licensed business owners paying ad valorem taxes on real or personal property within the county or municipal corporation for which the authority is created.”
Development authorities are appointed boards that provide some legal separation for a county or city government from efforts to attract business and developers to the area.
June 21, 2018
ARC Selects 56 Leaders for 2018 Regional Leadership Institute
The Atlanta Regional Commission has selected 56 public, private, education, and nonprofit leaders from metro Atlanta to take part in the 2018 Regional Leadership Institute (RLI). RLI participants will explore key regional issues facing metro Atlanta, from transportation to housing, during the immersive, week-long leadership development program held in Savannah Sept. 30 - Oct. 5.
April 24, 2018
ONEClayton Community Resource Guide launched
The site was developed as a team project by 2018 Leadership Clayton Class members: Eric Bell; Faye Evans; Kimberly Golden-Benner; Judy Mapp; Michael Montgomery; Chantara Rumph-Carter; and Judge Marcus Thorpe. A community collaborative effort, the website was created with support and guidance from Clayton County Chamber of Commerce; Clayton County Library System; John Brinson, Clayton Collaborative Authority; and State Rep. Rhonda Burnough, the team’s lead adviser.
March 06, 2018
UPDATE: Clayton County delegation announces soloution to jet-fuel tax problem
On March 5, the Clayton County delegation announced they have reached a solution with Deal and Delta over HB 821. The governor and Delta have agreed to hold harmless and make Clayton County whole until the end of the current Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax and Local Option Sales Tax, delegates stated in a press release.
Rep. Rhonda Burnough said the solution was a “great example of teamwork." "The Clayton County delegation, alongside our elected officials and local leaders, fought to ensure that the services our communities and businesses depend on will continue to operate as usual,” Burnough said.
February 20, 2018
Press Conference: Clayton County Delegation Responds to House Bill 821 Resolution
CLICK HERE TO VIEW Remarks in response to House Bill 821 Resolution from: State Rep. Rhonda Burnough, State Rep. Valencia Stovall, CCPS Superintendent Dr. Morcease Beasley, and Commissioner Jeff Turner.
February 20, 2018
Clayton County Officials and State Legislators Commit to Work Collaboratively to Support Local Schools and Communities
JONESBORO – Clayton County Public Schools (CCPS) Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Morcease J Beasley, and Clayton County entities continue to work in collaboration with state legislators in relation to House Bill (HB) 821.
Earlier today in a press conference held by Governor Nathan Deal, a solution was agreed upon and there is a commitment that would help all communities impacted by House Bill 821. The Governor publically stated his commitment to hold harmless communities impacted by HB 821, including Clayton County. Additionally, Delta Airlines is working to ensure the school district Education-SPLOST is not negatively impacted.
“I’d like to acknowledge Governor Nathan Deal and his team, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and House Speaker David Ralston on their exceptional leadership in addressing this matter and committing to ensure that support is extended to sustain Clayton County Public Schools and the Clayton County communities. Also, we appreciate Delta Airlines for committing to seek a solution and agreeing to explore more ways to strengthen partnership opportunities within the school district,” stated Dr. Morcease Beasley, Superintendent of Schools.
“I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Clayton County Delegation, Clayton County Chairman Jeffery Turner and the Clayton County Commission, along with Mayors and leaders representing all municipalities, the Clayton County Board of Education, our school district leaders, school administrators, students, parents and community for working in collaboration to seek a solution that is mutually beneficial to our county at-large,” Superintendent Beasley added.
“As previously shared, our representatives are consistently working in the best interest of all Clayton County stakeholders which is evident in reaching a mutual solution that does not jeopardize the future of our students and the ability of our county to continue to flourish. We are Clayton Strong and I believe as we continue to grow even stronger as a community we will accomplish many great things,” stated Superintendent Beasley.
February 11, 2018
Eliminating jet fuel tax could cost Clayton County schools
CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. - Jet fuels and children’s education don’t seem to have much in common except in Clayton County.
A proposal at the state capitol would eliminate state sales taxes on jet fuel, and in Clayton County, those tax dollars make up a big part of the public education budget.
That’s why county leaders met with parents on Saturday to discuss possibly losing $20 million over the next two years.
In front of a packed cafeteria, Clayton schools superintendent Morcease Beasley said his district could lose a large portion of its budget.
"It would be about 17 percent of our SPLOST budget,” he said. “Now which corporation, Delta included can maintain its level of operations with a reduction of 17 percent in its revenue? That is not moral. We wouldn't allow Delta to experience it, so why would we allow our children to experience such?"
Beasley said several capital projects around the district would be changed or eliminated. "And this is a statewide issue,” he said. “Because there are other locations, other jurisdictions that are being affected by the loss of this revenue."
But Clayton could lose the most. According to Clayton public schools, 3,000 acres of Hartsfield-Jackson’s footprint are in Clayton.
House Bill 821 would update the state tax code and eliminate state sales tax on jet fuel.
Gov. Nathan Deal wrote this week the bill would help Georgia and by eliminating the tax, “encourage airlines to fly additional direct flights from Georgia to destinations around the globe.
“Georgia and our businesses are global competitions,” Deal wrote. “We need direct air travel to provide our companies with immediate access worldwide.”
Several state representatives from Clayton spoke at Saturday’s meeting, including Rep. Demetrious Douglas, who’s against eliminating the sales tax simply because of the consequences.
"Right is right and wrong is wrong,” he said. “If you're for kids and you expect kids to read by the third grade, why hinder the kids by taking a tax-base that is going directly to the kids and our schools?"
February 01, 2018
Clayton County Legislative Delegation elects new officers
ATLANTA – The Clayton County Legislative Delegation recently elected new officers for the 2018 legislative session.
State Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale, was elected to serve as chair of the Clayton County Legislative Delegation.
“As a citizen, elected official and now chair of the delegation, I look forward to continue working on behalf of Clayton County’s residents and businesses in this new role alongside my legislative peers,” Burnough said in a press release.
January 19, 2018
Power to the Polls scheduled for Monday
A few state representatives gathered Friday to encourage women to join the Power to the Polls movement.
Power to the Polls will take place in Atlanta on Monday to honor women and social justice.
Participants will enjoy guest speakers, engagement workshops, and more.
A few legislators said they are ready to stand with those who will gather for the Power to the Polls movement.
Atlanta women legislators said they stand together to support women helping their government and country.
January 02, 2018
Congressman David Scott Secures over $4 million in Grants for Clayton County
Congressman David Scott worked Clayton County leaders to secure over $4 million dollars in grants for various initiatives. Thank you to Congressman David Scott and his congressional staff for all that you do for Clayton County!
November 21, 2017
Jonesboro H.S. Finishes Third in Empire World Mock Trial Championship
Jonesboro, GA. Jonesboro High School was the only Georgia team competing at the invitation-only Empire Mock Trial World Championship in New York City this week. Thirty-six teams representing 18 states including Canada, China, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and South Korea were invited.
November 21, 2017
Sandra Deal visits, reads to Clayton students
Rep. Rhonda Burnough invited First Lady Sandra Deal to kick off her day of reading at Tara Elementary, the school Rhonda where began her CCPS career. “I had such a wonderful experience [at Tara Elementary School] and I wanted the boys and girls here to have the experience of meeting Mrs. Deal,” Burnough said.
September 04, 2017
Father of fallen soldier to speak at Gold Star Fathers event
Carey Brown lost his son, 1st Lt. Tyler Brown, more than a decade ago.
Brown's son died by enemy gunfire Sept. 14, 2004, at the age of 26 while serving in Ar Ramadi, Iraq.
The tragedy made Brown a Gold Star Father, a group which will be recognized 11 a.m., Nov. 9, at the State Capitol in Atlanta.
Brown, the founder of The Benefits Company, will be one of the speakers at the Gold Star Fathers Recognition Event held on Gold Star Father's Day.
August 26, 2017
Fathers of fallen soldiers to be recognized
Fathers who have lost children in the line of duty are invited to the inaugural Gold Star Fathers recognition event, 11:30 p.m., Nov. 9, at the Georgia State Capitol. State Rep. Rhonda Burnough said Gold Star Fathers are fathers of soldiers who have lost their lives in combat or as a result of combat.
June 12, 2017
Rep. Burnough Honors Gold Star Fathers with House Resolution
ATLANTA – State Representative Rhonda Burnough (D-Riverdale) sponsored House Resolution 723 during the 2017 legislative session of the Georgia General Assembly recognizing Thursday, November 9, 2017, as Gold Star Father Day in Georgia. HR 723 was adopted by the Georgia House of Representatives on Friday, March 24, 2017.
January 01, 2020
CCPS superintendent honored for dedication, commitment to education
Ga. Representatives Debra Bazemore and Rhonda Burnough, Sen. Valencia Seay and Juvenile Court Judge Bobby Simmons presented Jackson with House Resolution 2176 commending her on her role in the teaching profession. Seay also awarded Jackson with a proclamation for her accomplishments as a leader and educator.
Rep. Burnough to Hold Press Conference Announcing Gold Star Father Day
ATLANTA – State Representative Rhonda Burnough (D- Riverdale) will hold a press conference to announce Gold Star Father Day on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, at 10 a.m. in room 610 of the Coverdell Legislative Office Building in Atlanta.
Rep. Burnough and Gold Star father Carey H. Brown are scheduled to speak during the press conference.
Rep. Burnough sponsored House Resolution 723 during the 2017 legislative session of the Georgia General Assembly recognizing Thursday, November 9, 2017, as Gold Star Father Day in Georgia.
April 25, 2017
Riverdale honors the life, memory of Tuskegee Airman Hiram E. Little
RIVERDALE — A staple of the Atlanta veteran community and Civil Rights hero was honored by the Riverdale City Council at its meeting Monday.
Hiram Emory Little died on Feb. 18 at the age of 98. An original Tuskegee Airman, former U.S. postal worker, father and friend, Little was an Atlanta native and frequent honored participant in Riverdale veterans’ parades and events.
“He was a person of magnanimous strength with an unimpeachable reputation for integrity, intelligence, fairness and kindness, and by the example he made of his life, he made this world a better place in which to live,” State Rep. Rhonda Burnough, D-Riverdale, read from an official Georgia General Assembly proclamation commemorating Little’s life and honoring his death.
February 27, 2017
Georgia Representatives Host Delta Sigma Theta Day at the Capitol
Georgia Representatives Host Delta Sigma Theta Day at the Capitol
ATLANTA, GA – On Monday, February 27, 2017, Representatives Rhonda Burnough, Sheila Jones, Marie Metze, and Pam Stephenson will host Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for the 2017 Delta Days at the Georgia State Capitol (DDAC).
Over 200 sorority sisters will visit the capitol for DDAC. The theme is “Defining the Moment…Believing in the Power of ‘We.’” The sisters will visit legislators, receive legislative briefings, and develop political strategies to take back to their local communities.
For 104 years, Delta Sigma Theta has played a critical role in this country by advocating and fighting for change and social justice. With the current political environment, the sisters stand ready to continue that legacy.
Rep. Rhonda Burnough Sworn in, Receives Committee Assignments for the 2017-2018 Legislative Term
State Representative Rhonda Burnough (D-Riverdale) was sworn into office as a member of the Georgia House of Representatives on Monday, January 9, 2017, marking her first day of the 2017-2018 legislative term. Monday was the first day of the first term of the 154th Legislative Session of the Georgia General Assembly.
“I am honored and humbled to have been elected by my neighbors and friends to represent District 77,” said Rep. Burnough. “I will work hard to continue the forward trends paved, and I look forward to all that we can accomplish together as we unite, serve and empower District 77.”
Clayton Legislative Delegation elects officers
“I’m pleased to be a part of the Clayton County Delegation and for the opportunity to serve as secretary,” State Rep. Rhonda Burnough said in a press release. “I look forward to working together in order to accomplish great things for our constituents during the 2017 session and beyond.”