State Representative Josh Bonner (R-Fayetteville) today announced that Governor Brian Kemp signed House Bill 487 into law on Wednesday, August 5, 2020. Sponsored by Rep. Bonner, HB 487 provides a greater opportunity for more of Georgia’s state employees to volunteer after declared natural disasters occur.

“House Bill 487 recognizes the critical role members of the Civil Air Patrol play in responding to disasters in Georgia,” said Rep. Bonner. “Their contributions to our state are invaluable, and this measure will help provide availability of needed personnel and resources in the time of need.”

Under House Bill 487, or the Robert Argo Disaster Volunteer Relief Act, state employees who are certified volunteers of the Civil Air Patrol United States Air Force Auxiliary would be granted paid leave for up to 15 workdays per year within a 12-month period for volunteering after certain natural disasters in specialized emergency services operations for the Civil Air Patrol. Upon the employee’s agency approval, this leave will be specifically used for such operations conducted by the Civil Air Patrol upon the request of the patrol after activation by a county emergency management agency, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency or a comparable federal agency for that employee’s services.

This legislation, which is named in honor of former Georgia State Representative Robert Argo, who was active in the Civil Air Patrol during World War II, would extend the same courtesy to state employees who are members of the Civil Air Patrol that is currently provided to state employees who are members of the American Red Cross.

For more information on House Bill 487, please click here.