Sen. Golden named to Special Committee on Revenue Structure

ATLANTA, July 26, 2010 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has been appointed by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle to the new Special Joint Committee on Georgia Revenue Structure. The committee was established, along with the Special Council on Tax Reform and Fairness for Georgians, through enactment of House Bill 1405, which was passed during the 2010 legislative session. Read more...

Governor's signature finalizes VSU Health Sciences funding

ATLANTA, June 10, 2010 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) said Thursday that funding for the new Health Sciences Center at Valdosta State University in the fiscal year 2011 state budget cleared its final hurdle this week when Gov. Sonny Perdue signed the budget legislation into law. Read more...

Legislature adjourns longest session in modern history

ATLANTA, April 30, 2010 - The longest Georgia legislative session in at least 120 years reached final adjournment late Thursday night. One of the final actions of the session, which began Jan. 11, was approval of a $17.9 billion state budget for fiscal year 2011. Read more...

Lawmakers OK Health Sciences Building funding for VSU

ATLANTA, April 29, 2010 – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) said that funding for the new Health Sciences Center at Valdosta State University is included in the fiscal year 2011 state budget, which received final approval by the Senate and House of Representatives. Read more...

Funding for VSU Health Sciences building in Senate budget

ATLANTA, April 23, 2010 - The state budget for fiscal year 2011, as approved by the Senate on Wednesday, includes a $2.8 million appropriation for designing the new Health Sciences Center at Valdosta State University. This new building will provide growth space for programs to acquire more faculty members and to serve greater numbers of students. Read more...

Legislation eliminates retirement income tax, state property tax

ATLANTA, April 16, 2010 - On Wednesday, the Senate voted to approve compromise tax legislation intended to help balance the fiscal year 2011 state budget as well as phase out both the state income tax on retirement income and the state's property tax. Read more...

Senate approves 'bed tax' increase on hospitals

ATLANTA, April 5, 2010 - The Senate voted 31-15 Thursday to approve Gov. Perdue's proposal for a 1.45 percent "bed tax" increase on Georgia hospitals, a plan that would bring in approximately $169 million in new tax revenue in an effort to offset the state's Medicaid deficit. Read more...

Committee OKs Golden plan to help small business

ATLANTA, March 26, 2010 - On Monday, the Senate Insurance & Labor Committee approved legislation I introduced, which would establish a state commission to review existing and future health insurance benefit and provider mandates that are imposed on Georgia's small businesses. Hopefully this legislation will prove to be a useful tool for controlling health insurance costs for small firms. Read more...

Golden legislation aimed at protecting small business

ATLANTA, March 19, 2010 - This week, I introduced legislation that would establish a state commission to review the health insurance benefit and provider mandates that Georgia's small businesses are required to offer their employees. Read more...

Valdosta's Dori Carter visits State Capitol

ATLANTA, March 18, 2010 - Sen. Tim Golden welcomed professional golfer Dori Carter of Valdosta to the Senate Chamber during her recent visit to the State Capitol. Read more...

Click here to see Sen. Tim Golden and Rep. Calvin Smyre interviewed on March 11, 2010, by CBS Atlanta about the Georgia budget crisis.

Governor's plan would devastate rural health care

ATLANTA, March 12, 2010 - Taking dead aim at Georgia’s financially struggling hospitals, Gov. Sonny Perdue announced Thursday his plan to cut Medicaid reimbursement rates by 10.25 percent and eliminate a sales tax exemption for non-profit hospitals. These actions will cost hospitals a total of $274 million during fiscal year 2011. Read more...

Proposed cuts to higher education a major concern

ATLANTA, March 5, 2010 - The Appropriations Committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate have been meeting jointly the past two weeks to consider more potential cuts to the $18.2 billion spending plan proposed by Gov. Sonny Perdue. Read more...

Senate approves further cuts to local schools

ATLANTA, Feb. 19, 2010 - A majority of the Georgia Senate voted Thursday to approve a $17.4 billion amended state budget for the remainder of fiscal year 2010, which ends June 30. Read more...

Legislation would help veterans with college finances

ATLANTA, Feb. 12, 2010 - This week, I co-sponsored legislation that would provide much-needed assistance to U.S. military veterans who want to attend one of Georgia’s public colleges or universities. Read more...

Golden co-sponsors Transportation Jobs Development Act

ATLANTA, Feb. 5, 2010 - This week, I joined fellow Senate Democrats in co-sponsoring the Georgia Transportation Jobs Development Act, a legislative solution to the transportation funding problem that has caused Georgia to fall behind other states in recent years. Read more...

$10 million in bond funding proposed for Ga. 133

ATLANTA, Jan. 29, 2010 - In his budget recommendations for fiscal year 2011, Gov. Perdue has included $10 million in bond funding for right-of- way acquisition toward completing the four-lane expansion of Ga. 133 between Valdosta and Albany. Read more...

Sen. Golden on Georgia Trend's '100 Most Influential' again

ATLANTA, Jan. 5, 2010 – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has been recognized for the second consecutive year as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians in the 12th annual list published by Georgia Trend magazine. Read more...

Golden urges end-of-year donations to National Guard Foundation

VALDOSTA, Dec. 2, 2009 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) is asking Georgians to continue their generous financial support to the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation through an end-of-year, tax-deductible contribution. Read more...

Golden reminds residents of Georgia sales tax holidays

VALDOSTA, Sept. 29, 2009 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) reminds residents of Brooks, Cook, Lowndes and Thomas counties that Georgia’s annual sales tax holiday period for energy- and water-efficient products is scheduled for Oct. 1-4. Read more...

Sen. Golden: state is to blame for local tax increase

VALDOSTA, Aug. 31, 2009 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) said Monday that local officials are correct in placing the blame for higher property tax bills on the Perdue administration and the majority of the Georgia General Assembly because of their action during the 2009 session to eliminate the Homeowner Tax Relief Grant (HTRG) program. Read more...

Golden reminds residents of Georgia sales tax holidays

VALDOSTA, July 22, 2009 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) reminds residents of Brooks, Cook, Lowndes and Thomas counties that Georgia’s annual back-to-school sales tax holiday period is scheduled for July 30-Aug. 2. Read more...

2009 legislative session: what passed, what failed

ATLANTA, April 13, 2009 - The 2009 session of the Georgia General Assembly took place during one of the most challenging economic periods in our state's history. Lawmakers' hands were tied in many ways by a $3 billion shortfall in state revenues. But a tough economy is no excuse for failing to align public policy decisions with meeting the basic needs of our citizens. Read more...

Session ends with no transportation funding plan

ATLANTA, April 6, 2009 - In the final week of the 2009 session of the Georgia General Assembly, lawmakers approved an $18.6 billion budget for fiscal year 2010 and passed a package of tax cuts designed to spur the economy. But for the second year in a row, the Senate and House leadership failed to agree on a solution for Georgia's transportation funding problem. Read more...

Senate renews call for regional transportation solution

ATLANTA, March 27, 2009 - As the debate continued this week over the future of transportation funding in Georgia, the Senate held its ground on the position that a regional solution paid for by dollars raised within those regions is the appropriate direction to take. Read more...

Senate protects HOPE funding for books and fees

ATLANTA, March 20, 2009 - On Wednesday, the Senate passed legislation that would make it easier for college students to continue using HOPE Scholarship funds for book purchases and related fees. Read more...

Golden urges tax time donations to National Guard Foundation

ATLANTA, March 18, 2009 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) is asking Georgians to continue their generous financial support to the Georgia National Guard Foundation through a state income tax check-off contribution.

Read more...

Senate approves funding system for trauma care

ATLANTA, March 13, 2009 - The state Senate voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to approve a proposal that would provide a dedicated revenue source for the Georgia Trauma Trust Fund to expand and enhance trauma care in our state. Read more...

Bipartisan legislation calls for review of tax exemptions

ATLANTA, March 6, 2009 - The state Senate voted unanimously Thursday to approve legislation I co-sponsored, calling for regular reviews of the effectiveness of various tax exemption laws that are on the books in Georgia. Read more...

Proposed transportation power grab causes concern

ATLANTA, February 27, 2009 - In a split vote Wednesday, the Senate Transportation Committee favorably reported legislation that would reorganize the state's transportation agencies and potentially weaken rural Georgia's voice in the process. Read more...

Senate addresses economy's effect on property values

ATLANTA, February 20, 2009 - The Senate voted on a property tax relief measure this week, approving legislation that would hold down increases in valuation assessments by local tax officials. Read more...

Legislation enhances 'Made in Georgia' campaign

ATLANTA, February 13, 2009 - In an effort to step up awareness of the state's new "Made in Georgia" campaign, I have co- sponsored legislation that would direct the Department of Economic Development to create and maintain a web site informing the public of Georgia manufacturers and the goods they produce. Read more...

Senate approves regional transportation solution

ATLANTA, February 6, 2009 - Across the state of Georgia, the lack of adequate funding to improve our transportation system is a problem. But the specific needs and urgency for improvements are different in various regions of the state. This week, the Senate voted overwhelmingly for legislation I co-sponsored that would set up a regional transportation solution. Read more...

VSU well represented at Capitol Tech Day

ATLANTA, January 30, 2009 - It was a pleasure to greet representatives of the Educational Technology Center (ETC) at Valdosta State University during 2009 Capitol Tech Day in Atlanta on Jan. 28. Capitol Tech is a collaborative effort between Georgia’s schools and the state’s ETCs, featuring local students who demonstrate the application of 21st century technology skills to the educational process. Read more...

Rural health care on the line in debate over tax hike

ATLANTA, January 23, 2009 - The House and Senate Appropriations Committees met jointly Jan. 21-23 to hear details of the budget requests for Gov. Perdue’s proposed $20.2 billion spending plan for fiscal year 2010. It is well known that balancing this year’s budget in the midst of the current economic crisis will be the greatest challenge Georgia lawmakers have faced in recent memory. Read more...

Legislative session opens amid concerns over budget

ATLANTA, January 16, 2009 - The 2009 session of the Georgia General Assembly got under way Jan. 12 as lawmakers returned to Atlanta knowing that our No. 1 challenge is to balance the new state budget in the toughest economic conditions we have faced in any of our lifetimes. Read more...

Sen. Golden on Georgia Trend’s ‘100 Most Influential’ list
ATLANTA, January 8, 2009 – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has been recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians in the 11th annual list published by Georgia Trend magazine. Read more...

Memorial Hospital of Adel thanks Senator Golden

for vote to increase Medicaid funding

Adel, Ga., October 16, 2008- The Memorial Hospital of Adel hosted an event to thank Senator Tim Golden for his influential role in passing the first Medicaid funding increase in six years. Read more...

Golden reports progress of Manufacturing Study Panel

October 20 , 2008 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta), co-chairman of the Joint Legislative Panel on the Future of Manufacturing in Georgia, said the committee’s most recent meeting in Augusta focused on concerns about energy costs, environmental regulations and workforce development. Read more...

Golden reminds residents of Georgia sales tax holidays

July 21, 2008 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) reminds residents of Brooks, Cook, Lowndes and Thomas counties that Georgia’s annual back-to-school sales tax holiday period is scheduled for July 31-Aug. 3.

During that four-day period, school supplies, clothing items, computers and computer accessories and will be exempt from both state and local sales tax. Read more...

Sen. Golden congratulates Valdosta as ESPN finalist for 'TitleTown'

Senator urges all Georgians to log on and vote

July 17, 2008 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) is applauding the City of Valdosta for being named one of the 20 finalists for ESPN’s “TitleTown USA” honor, an ongoing contest featured on ESPN’s flagship show, “SportsCenter,” where sports fans throughout the nation submit nominations for what they consider to be “TitleTown USA.” Read more...

Sen. Golden honored by Georgia Retail Association
June 9, 2008 – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) was honored with a 2008 Legislative Achievement Award by the Georgia Retail Association. The presentation was made at the association’s Annual Meeting and Legislative Conference on St. Simons Island, Ga. Read more...

Sen. Golden to co-chair Manufacturing Study Committee
May 30, 2008 – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has been appointed by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle as co-chair of the newly established Senate Study Committee on the Future of Manufacturing in Georgia. Read more...

Sen. Golden’s ‘Made in Georgia’ program becomes law                     

May 15, 2008 – Legislation authored by state Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta), establishing a “Made in Georgia” program to promote the sale of products manufactured in Georgia, was signed into law Wednesday by Governor Sonny Perdue. Read more...

Golden hails state funding for Senate District 8

May 15, 2008 – More than $17 million in state funding for projects in Senate District 8 is included in the $21 billion fiscal year 2009 budget signed into law Wednesday by Governor Sonny Perdue. Read more...

Sen. Tim Golden announces candidacy for re-election

April 28, 2008 – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) qualified Monday at the State Capitol to be a candidate for re-election to the Senate District 8 post in the 2008 Democratic Primary. Read more ...

8th District budget items sent to governor’s desk

April 8, 2008 - The $21.2 billion annual state budget for fiscal year 2009, adopted by the Senate and House of Representatives on the final day of the recently completed legislative session and sent to the governor for his signature, includes a number of significant appropriations for the 8th Senate District. Read more...

2008 session outstanding for Georgia manufacturers

April 3, 2008 - Georgia manufacturers – large and small – produce the goods, provide the services and create the employment opportunities that keep our state’s economic engine running. In tough economic times, it is especially important for state officials to do what we can to support our manufacturing sector. Read more...

Senate budget includes funding for 8th District

March 28, 2008 - The Senate voted Friday to approve a $21.2 billion annual state budget for fiscal year 2009, which begins July 1. The budget legislation is now in the hands of a conference committee because of several significant differences between the Senate version of HB 990 and the proposal approved earlier by the House of Representatives. Read more...

Sen. Golden’s 'Made in Georgia' legislation passes Georgia House of Representatives

March 21, 2008 - I am very pleased to report that SB 359, “Made in Georgia” legislation that I introduced and passed in the Senate cleared the Georgia House of Representatives on Thursday by a vote of 160-1. The bill now goes to the Governor for his signature. Read more...

Senate honors Valdosta's Billy Langdale

March 20, 2008 - Sen. Tim Golden (second from right) participated in a Senate ceremony honoring Billy Langdale of Valdosta on the occasion of his retirement from the state Department of Transportation Board. Sen. Golden and Mr. Langdale are joined by (L-R) Sen. John Bulloch, Sen. Michael Meyer von Bremen and Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle.

'Made in Georgia' clears key House Committee

March 14, 2008 - I am pleased to report that SB 359, “Made in Georgia” legislation that I introduced and passed in the Senate has now cleared the House Committee on Economic Development and Tourism with a unanimous recommendation. Read more...

Senate votes to expand health care marketplace

March 7, 2008 - The Senate voted Thursday to approve legislation that would make less expensive health insurance plans available to people who are presently uninsured. SB 404, the Georgia Health Marketplace Act, would allow consumers and small business owners to shop online and compare the features of a range of health insurance plans, including deductibles, co-payment requirements, benefits and premiums. Georgians can then purchase the policy that meets their needs and budgets. Read more...

VSU’s national champs honored by state Senate

February 29, 2008 - The Valdosta State University Blazers were the honored guests of the Georgia Senate on Wednesday as the players and coaches were recognized for winning the 2007 NCAA Division II national football championship. Read more...

Senate approves supplemental budget proposal

February 22, 2008 - The Senate voted Thursday to approve a midyear adjustment to the state budget for the remainder of fiscal year 2008, which ends June 30. The Senate version includes several differences from the supplemental budget approved earlier by the House of Representatives. Read more...

Senate unanimously approves ‘Made in Georgia’

February 15, 2008 - On Thursday, legislation that I introduced as a means of promoting the sale of products manufactured in Georgia won Senate approval by a 42-0 vote. Read more...

A balanced, reasoned approach to property tax reform

February 8, 2008 - As a member of the Senate Finance Committee, I joined my colleagues this week in supporting SR 796, which would limit assessment increases to 2 percent per year for residential property and 3 percent for non-residential property. As a proposed constitutional amendment, this is one of the most effective measures to deal with rising property values that I have seen. Read more...

Senate makes history with override of governor’s veto

February 1, 2008 - History was made in the Senate chamber Monday when, for the first time in 34 years, a Georgia governor’s legislative veto was overridden by both houses of the General Assembly. Read more...

‘Made in Georgia’ boosts products; $4 million for VSU in budget

January 18, 2008 -- During the first week of the 2008 session of the Georgia General Assembly, I introduced legislation that would create a “Made in Georgia” campaign, designed to promote the sale of products manufactured in Georgia. Read more...

Sen. Golden to sponsor ‘Made in Georgia’ legislation

January 7, 2008 -- Atlanta, GA – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) plans to introduce legislation that would create a “Made in Georgia” campaign, designed to promote the sale of products manufactured in Georgia. Read more...

Golden urges year-end donations to National Guard Foundation

December 17, 2007 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) is asking Georgians to continue their generous financial support to the Georgia National Guard Foundation through a tax-deductible, year-end contribution. Read more...

Sen. Golden recognized as Industry Champion by GIA

December 5 , 2007 – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has received the first annual “Industry Champion” Award presented by the Georgia Industry Association (GIA). Read more...

State’s pediatricians name Sen. Golden Legislator of the Year

October 12, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA  – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) was honored as Senate Legislator of the Year by the Georgia Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics during the organization’s fall meeting Friday at the Georgia Tech Hotel & Conference Center. Read more...

Golden reminds residents of Georgia sales tax holidays

September 24, 2007 -- Valdosta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) reminds residents of Brooks, Cook, Lowndes and Thomas counties that Georgia's annual sales tax holiday period for certain Energy Star merchandise is scheduled for Oct. 4-7. During that four-day period, Georgians will save money while products that conserve energy and protect the environment are exempt from both state and local sales tax. Read more...

Sen. Golden named to Lien Law Study Committee
August 21, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has been appointed by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle to serve on the Senate Comprehensive Lien Law Study Committee. Read more...

Golden named Georgia Chamber’s Legislator of the Year
June 11, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) was among the five recipients of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s first “Legislator of the Year” award, presented during the state chamber’s annual spring Governmental Affairs Council (GAC) Conference last week. Read more...

Sen. Golden appointed to study committees
June 4, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has been appointed by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle to newly formed Senate study committees. Read more...

Golden’s drug-free workplace legislation signed into law
May 30 , 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) said Wednesday he is pleased that legislation he introduced, strengthening Georgia’s drug-free workplace program, has now been signed into law by Governor Perdue. Read more...

2007 session comes to a temporary end
April 20, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) The 2007 session of the Georgia General Assembly came to an end at midnight Friday, the 40th legislative day. But it will be only a temporary end as Governor Perdue has indicated he will summon lawmakers back for a special session to reconsider the supplemental budget for the remainder of this fiscal year, which he vetoed Thursday evening. Read more...

Senate to address key legislation
April 9, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) With no more than seven legislative days remaining in the 2007 session of the Georgia General Assembly, the Senate will be considering key legislation adopted earlier in the session by the House of Representatives. Read more...

Amendment would safeguard HOPE, pre-K funds
March 30, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) Thanks to bipartisan cooperation in the Senate, legislation aimed at safeguarding lottery revenues for Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship and pre-kindergarten programs was sufficiently strengthened to win the necessary two-thirds approval for a constitutional amendment.
Read more...

Constitutional amendment protecting HOPE, pre-K funds passes Senate

Senate Democrats strengthen proposed Constitutional amendment
Atlanta, GA - Thanks to an amendment offered by Sen. Ed Tarver (D-Augusta) and supported by Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) legislation aimed at safeguarding lottery revenues for Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship and pre-kindergarten programs was sufficiently strengthened to win the necessary two-thirds approval in the Senate.

Read more...

Amendment helps ensure fiscal responsibility
March 23, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) Through bipartisan cooperation the Senate approved Senate Resolution 20 this week. SR 20 would prohibit the General Assembly from increasing the annual state budget by a percentage that is more than the state’s population growth, plus inflation.
Read more...

Golden-Stoner amendment strengthens limit on state spending

Bipartisan cooperation lifts prospects for Senate Resolution 20
Atlanta, GA - The prospect of passing legislation that would limit the annual spending increases by state government was greatly improved Tuesday by an amendment offered by Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) and Sen. Doug Stoner (D-Smyrna). Read more...

Golden bill would strengthen drug-free workplace
March 16, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) The Senate Insurance & Labor Committee has favorably reported legislation I introduced that would further strengthen Georgia’s drug-free work place program. Senate Bill 96, which will now be considered by the full Senate, would authorize employers to conduct on-site and oral testing of workers for substance abuse. Read more...

Senate votes to require seat belt use in pickup trucks
March 3, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) The state Senate voted this week to approve legislation I co-sponsored that would require the drivers and passengers in pickup trucks to wear seat belts. Currently, Georgia’s seat belt law does not apply to pickup trucks. Read more...

Nothing better for our economy, citizens than tax relief

A window of opportunity for Georgia to become a world leader
March 2, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) There are numerous proposals coming from all sectors of the American political sector on how best our nation can compete with globalization, the loss of domestic manufacturing jobs, and the never-ending “brain drain” that sees our best talent and ingenuity head overseas. Read more...

State should adhere to CON panel’s recommendations
February 23, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) Last week, I was lead co-sponsor of Senate Bill 164, the Certificate of Need Reformation Act of 2007, which provides an extensive revision of Georgia’s certificate of need (CON) program for the licensure of health care facilities. Read more...

Senate rejects fiscally unsound spending proposal
February 15, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) A proposed constitutional amendment that would place limits on the state’s ability to produce fiscally sound budgets failed to receive the necessary two-thirds approval from the state Senate this week. Read more...

Georgia lawmakers fighting to save PeachCare

February 9, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) Unfortunately, there was nothing but bad news this week about the future of Georgia's PeachCare for Kids program. Read more...

Legislation says thanks to those in military service
February 2, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) The debate goes on in Washington, D.C., about the next steps in our nation’s military involvement in Iraq and the global war on terrorism. Read more...

Budget subcommittee work important to process
January 26, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) As newly introduced legislation has started to move through the committee process, so has the proposed state budget for Fiscal Year 2008.
Read more...

Legislative session opens with work on state budget
January 12, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) The first week of the 2007 session of the Georgia General Assembly was highlighted by ceremonial and organizational activities as newly elected or re-elected members took their oaths of office, leadership positions were filled, committees were assigned and the Governor came by for his annual State of the State address. Read more...

Sen. Golden named Secretary of Appropriations Committee
January 9, 2007 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) was appointed Tuesday by Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle as secretary of the Senate Appropriations Committee, which is responsible for the annual state budget. Read more...

Golden urges Georgians to Give to National Guard Fund
December 7, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) on Thursday urged residents of the 8th Senate District to continue to show generous support to the Georgia National Guard Foundation through a state income tax check-off. Read more...

Georgia Realtors Group supports Golden re-election
October 23, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has received the support of the Georgia Association of Realtors in his candidacy for re-election to Senate District 8. Read more...

National Rifle Association endorses Senator Golden
October 11, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has received the endorsement of the National Rifle Association (NRA) in his candidacy for re-election to Senate District 8. Read more...

Teachers acknowledge Golden’s support for schools
Georgia Association of Educators endorses Golden for re-election
October 2, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA -- Because of his commitment to support public schools and protect the HOPE Scholarship, state Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has again received the endorsement of the 40,000-member Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) in his candidacy for re-election to Senate District 8 in the November 7 general election. Read more...

Small Business Endorses Tim Golden in Senate District 8

September 27, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA --The National Federation of Independent Business, Georgia’s leading small-business advocacy group, today announced its endorsement of incumbent Tim Golden in Senate District 8. Golden, an NFIB member, has been a strong supporter of small business in Atlanta. Read more...

Georgia doctors endorse Senator Tim Golden

September 18, 2006 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has received the endorsement of the Medical Association of Georgia (MAG) and the Georgia Medical Political Action Committee (GAMPAC) in his candidacy for re-election to Senate District 8. Read more...

Golden recognized as Champion of Family Medicine

August 29, 2006 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) was one of three members of the Georgia General Assembly honored by the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians at the academy’s Legislative Champions of Family Medicine Dinner last weekend at Callaway Gardens. Read more...

New Medicaid program off to a rough start in Georgia
By Rep. Jay Shaw and Sen. Tim Golden

August 28, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA -- On June 1, North and Middle Georgians covered by Medicaid and Peach Care for Kids – half of 1.2 million statewide – were herded into care management organizations (CMOs) with three private insurance carriers. On September 1, another 600,000 Medicaid recipients from South Georgia are will be moved into CMO coverage. Read more...

Golden, House members help celebrate VSU centennial

August 15, 2006 -- Valdosta, GA --State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) will join other members of the Lowndes County legislative delegation Friday in ceremonies commemorating the 100th anniversary of Valdosta State University. Read more...

Golden honored for health care leadership

August 11, 2006 - Archbold Medical Center President Ken B. Beverly (left) presents Senator Tim Golden with the Georgia Hospital Association’s Legislative Leadership Award in recognition of the Senator’s strong support of legislation that positively impacts patient access to quality healthcare in Georgia.
Read more...

Golden reminds residents of Georgia sales tax holidays

July 27, 2006 - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) reminds residents of Brooks, Cook, Lowndes and Thomas counties that Georgia’s annual sales tax holiday period is scheduled for Aug. 3-6. During that four-day period, school supplies, clothing items, computers, computer accessories and certain Energy Star merchandise will be exempt from both state and local sales tax. Read more...

Commentary: Georgia should support, not impede, medical research
By Senator Robert Brown (D-Macon) and Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta)
July 25, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA -- The “no” votes by both of Georgia’s U.S. senators on legislation that would have expanded research into the life-saving benefits of stem cell research this week were very disappointing. Even more tragic was President Bush’s veto of the bill, an action that will delay a chance to help an estimated 110 million Americans who suffer from diseases like diabetes, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and various forms of cancer. Read more...

Georgia nurses endorse Senator Tim Golden
July 17, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has received the endorsement of the Political Action Committee of the Georgia Nurses Association in his candidacy for re-election to Senate District 8.
Read more...

Senator Golden cited for pro-business voting record

July 13, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA -- State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) has received a 100 percent Legislative Voting Reference from the Georgia Chamber of Commerce on six key issues during the 2005-06 session of the Georgia General Assembly. Read more...

Golden reminds residents of Georgia sales tax holidays

July 11, 2006 - Valdosta, GA - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) reminds residents of Brooks, Cook, Lowndes and Thomas counties that Georgia’s annual sales tax holiday period is scheduled for Aug. 3-6. During the four-day period, school supplies, clothing items, computers, computer accessories and certain Energy Star merchandise will be exempt from both state and local sales tax. Read more...

Senator Tim Golden endorsed by Georgia educators

July 3, 2006 - Atlanta, GA - Members of the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) have endorsed the candidacy of State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) for re-election to the Georgia Senate District 8. GAE, with 40,000 members, is the only major education employee representative with an active political action program. GAE members work hard through voluntary contributions and support for candidates to ensure friends of public education are elected to public office. Read more...

Commentary: Loss of manufacturing jobs continues to plague state

By Senator Tim Golden

June 26, 2006 - Valdosta, GA - A recent article in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that the loss of manufacturing jobs – and their replacement with lower-paying service jobs – has contributed to higher home loan delinquency rates in Georgia and the Deep South, compared with other states. Read more...

Georgians show support for Guard members, families

June 6, 2006 -Valdosta, GA - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) said Tuesday he is extremely pleased that at least $84,000 has already been donated to the Georgia National Guard assistance fund this year through a state income tax check-off. Read more...

Senator Tim Golden praises Valdosta Tech project

April 27, 2006 -- Valdosta, Ga. – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) called today’s groundbreaking for a new 100,000-square foot Academic Classroom Building on the campus of Valdosta Technical College a major boost for education and economic development in the area. Read more...

Senator Tim Golden to Seek 5th Term in State Senate

April 24, 2006 -- Valdosta, GA – State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) announced today that he will qualify at the State Capitol seeking a fifth term in the Georgia State Senate. “It has been a great honor serving our area in the State Senate for the past eight years,” said Senator Golden, a 16-year veteran of the Georgia General Assembly, having served in the Georgia House of Representatives for eight years prior to his election to the State Senate in 1999. “I have worked to reflect the views and values of the 8th District in the State Senate, and I look forward to continuing to fight for our vital interests at the State Capitol in the future.” Read more...

Senate gives final approval to Bible academic study               

March 27, 2006 – Atlanta, GA -- Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta), who first proposed 2006 legislation allowing an academic study of the Bible in Georgia public schools said he was encouraged that amendments to Senate Bill 79 made in the House of Representatives embraced some of the language of his original proposal. Read more...

Golden, Stoner amendments expand tax relief for seniors             March 13, 2006 -- Atlanta, GA – Legislation that would increase an income tax exemption for retirees, adopted by the Senate on Monday, was greatly improved by two amendments offered by Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) and Sen. Doug Stoner (D-Smyrna). Read more...

Georgia senators hold issues dialogue with Mark Warner              February 23, 2006 - Atlanta, GA – Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) recently traveled to Alexandria, Va., for an exchange of ideas on major issues with former Virginia Gov. Mark Warner, who won national acclaim for his leadership during the state’s recent period of extraordinary achievements. Read more...

Golden: state should borrow less and save more

February 14, 2006 - Atlanta, GA - State Sen. Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) introduced legislation Monday that would change the Constitution to reduce the maximum level of debt service that the state government could assume from 10 percent of the previous year’s revenues to 7 percent. Read more...

Thomasville Times-Enterprise Endorses Golden for Senate

October 27, 2004 --  Valdosta, GA  --  State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) announced today that The Thomasville Times-Enterprise endorsed his campaign for re-election today. Read more ...

Valdosta Daily Times Endorses Golden for Senate

October 27, 2004 -- Valdosta, GA  --  State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) announced today that The Valdosta Daily Times endorsed his campaign for re-election today.   The seven member editorial board was unanimous in its endorsement of Golden's re-election to a fourth term in the State Senate. Read more ...

Senator Zell Miller Supports Golden

October 20, 2004 -- Washington, D.C. -- United States Senator Zell Miller, in a mailing to the voters in the 8^th Senatorial District of Georgia, has issued a strong statement in support of State Senator Tim Golden's re-election for another term in the State Senate. Read more ...

National Rifle Association Endorses Golden for Senate

October 10th, 2004 -- Valdosta, GA  -- State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) announced today that he has been endorsed for re-election by the National Rifle Association (NRA) for re-election to a fourth term in the State Senate. Read more ...

October 4, 2004 -- Atlanta, GA  -- The Georgia Hospital Association (GHA) named State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) a recipient of the Legislative Leadership Award.  The award is presented to those state lawmakers whose leadership promotes sound health care public policy that benefits patients, hospitals and communities. Read more ...

Small Business Group Endorses Golden

September 29, 2004 -- Valdosta, GA  -- State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) announced today that the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), the largest small business association in Georgia with over 12,000 members, has endorsed his campaign for re-election to a fourth term in the State Senate. Read more ...

Sales Tax Holiday Is Coming

July 21, 2004 -- Valdosta, GA - State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) announced today that the sales tax holiday for Georgia will commence at 12:01 am on July 29^th and conclude at midnight on August 1, 2004. Read more ...

Educators Endorse Golden

July 15, 2004 --  Valdosta, GA  --  State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) announced today that the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) Fund for Public Education has endorsed his campaign for re-election to a fourth term in the State Senate. Read more ...

Medical Association of Georgia Endorses Golden 

June 28, 2004 -- Atlanta, Georgia  --  State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) announced today that the Medical Association of Georgia (MAG) and GAMPAC, the lobbying arm for Doctors and allied health care professionals in Georgia, has endorsed Golden for a fourth term in the State Senate. Read more ...

Tim Golden Named Outstanding Public Official for 2004

April 20, 2004 -- Valdosta, GA  --  State Senator Tim Golden (D-Valdosta) was named the 2004 recipient of the Loyce M. Turner Public Official of the Year for 2004 by the Public Administration Department at Valdosta State University (VSU). Read more ...