Minority Leader Harold Jones II Releases Statement on Special Action to SB 204

ATLANTA (January 13, 2026) - Today, Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones II (D-Augusta) released the following statement on the Senate Special Action to Senate Bill 204:

"The original intent of this legislation was to modernize certain criminal charging procedures so district attorneys could better protect the people they serve. It was never intended to limit the ability of local governments to make public safety decisions for their own communities.

That changed when the bill was amended to prohibit local governments from regulating the storage of firearms, directly targeting the City of Savannah. Because this language represents a clear departure from the bill's original purpose, I removed my name from SB 204 in its current form.

Cities and local jurisdictions should have the authority to determine the best way to keep their residents safe, including the appropriate oversight of the purchase, ownership, storage and sale of firearms. Every Senate Democrat voted against this language because we understand the consequences of stripping local governments of that authority.

Gun violence remains a serious threat in Georgia and across the country. I remain committed to advancing the original intent of this legislation and working with my colleagues to do so in a way that respects local decision-making and protects Georgia families."

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Sen. Harold V. Jones II serves as the Democratic Leader. He represents the 22nd Senate District, which includes portions of Richmond County. He may be reached at 404.656.0036 or via email at [email protected].

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