On Wednesday, September 20, 2023, the Joint Tax Credit Review Panel, Co-Chaired by Senator Chuck Hufstetler (R – Rome) and Representative Shaw Blackmon (R – Bonaire), conducted its third meeting at the Christopher Browning Pavilion at Oak Hill in Rome, Georgia. The panel heard from regional manufacturers from across the state, including local companies within Rome, Georgia.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to Berry College for their hospitality and to all the witnesses for their testimonies, said Sen. Hufstetler. “Hosting this meeting in my hometown of Rome holds special significance. This region has seen businesses, both large and small, flourish, highlighting the extensive impact of Georgia’s tax credits. As Rep. Blackmon, our panel members, and I further explore this topic, are focus continues to be on understanding the influence of tax credits on Georgia’s business landscape and competitiveness. Our overarching objective is to ensure that these tax credits are in sync with the broader economic goals and fiscal vision of our state.”

Testimonies came from the Georgia Association of Manufacturers, Mannington Mills, the Lewis Chemical Company, Pirelli Tires, Rome Floyd County Development Authority, the Pew Charitable Trusts and the American Legislative Exchange Council. Following the meeting, the panel took a tour of Berry College, hosted by Stephen R. Briggs, President of Berry College and Pam Powers-Smith, President and CEO of the Rome-Floyd Chamber.

The panel is planning a fourth meeting later this year to dive deeper into Georgia’s tax credits. The date and location have not yet been determined but will be announced on the Georgia Senate Schedule here.

The archived video from the September 20, 2023 meeting can be found here.