Debate over tort reform continues; Pesticides bill passes House; Georgia Film Week

Summary

Georgia Today Podcast – March 14, 2025

Host: Orlando Montoya
Producer: Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB)
Duration: Approximately 13 minutes

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1. Heated Debate Over Lawsuit Reform at the State Capitol

The episode opens with GPB's Sarah Kallis reporting on the intensifying debate surrounding lawsuit reform in Georgia. Two significant bills, Senate Bills 68 and 69, aiming to limit lawsuits in the state, are currently navigating the House after successfully passing the Senate.

Governor Brian Kemp has prioritized lawsuit reform, highlighting its importance in the legislative agenda. Michael Edwards of Mannington Mills Flooring Company supports the bills, stating, “the cost of lawsuits are burdening businesses” (01:21).

However, the proposed reforms have sparked opposition from various corners. Melanie Martinez, a sex trafficking survivor, voiced her concerns, emphasizing the potential negative impact on justice for victims. At 03:04, she states, “I refuse to be used by a corporation as a shield for the consequences of their actions,” underscoring fears that the reforms could hinder survivors from seeking rightful damages against negligent parties.

Alexis Jolly adds, “We finally have a voice, and now... these settlements allow women like myself to rebuild themselves” (02:05), highlighting the critical role that civil lawsuits play in the lives of survivors.

The bills have yet to reach the House floor for final approval, leaving the outcome uncertain as both supporters and detractors continue to advocate fervently for their respective positions.

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2. Pesticides Liability Bill Passes Georgia House

In a significant legislative move, the Georgia House of Representatives approved Senate Bill 144, which restricts liability for pesticide manufacturers beyond the warnings mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The bill passed with a decisive vote of 101 to 58 and is now awaiting Governor Brian Kemp’s signature.

Representative Robert Dickey, a proponent of the bill, argues that it will bolster protections for pesticide manufacturers, thereby enabling farmers to access a broader range of materials and enhance food production capabilities (02:26).

Conversely, Representative Rua Roman opposed the bill, cautioning that it could jeopardize consumer health by limiting accountability for manufacturers (02:53). Melanie Martinez reinforces this viewpoint, stating, “I refuse to be used by a corporation as a shield for the consequences of their actions” (03:04).

The passage of SB 144 marks a pivotal moment in Georgia’s approach to balancing agricultural advancement with public health considerations.

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3. Controversial Annexation Plans for Mulberry

Further legislative discussions centered on Senate Bill 139, which proposes allowing the city of Mulberry to annex additional territories from unincorporated Gwinnett County. The bill passed along party lines, reflecting a deep divide between Democrats and Republicans.

Democrats voiced concerns over the lack of resident input, emphasizing that annexation decisions should involve community consent. Representative Sam Park highlighted the county-wide impact, noting, “Annexation impacts every single citizen of Gwinnett County. It impacts every single legislator who represents and is a member of the Gwinnett delegation because it is county money that is otherwise being taken away” (03:09).

On the other hand, Republicans supported the measure, advocating that it would foster local growth and development within Mulberry.

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4. Tribute to Grammy-Nominated R&B Singer Angie Stone

The podcast paid homage to the late Angie Stone, a Grammy-nominated R&B and hip-hop artist who tragically passed away in a vehicular accident near Montgomery, Alabama. Known for her pioneering work with the hip-hop trio the Sequins and her subsequent solo success as the “Queen of Neo Soul,” Stone left an indelible mark on the music industry. Tributes poured in from fans and fellow artists, celebrating her legacy and contributions to Georgia’s vibrant music scene.

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5. Severe Weather Advisory for Georgia

Attention was drawn to a severe weather outlook for Georgia over the upcoming weekend. Ty Vaughn, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, warned of a significant severe weather outbreak beginning Saturday afternoon, with threats of damaging winds and potential tornadoes (05:08).

Grant Blankenship highlighted the proactive measures being taken, such as the distribution of nearly 2,000 emergency weather radios by Macon-Civil County's Emergency Management Agency, funded through a FEMA grant. Alexis Jolly emphasized the importance of these radios, particularly for individuals with disabilities, stating, “We like to be aware when bad weather is coming and most bad weather nowadays comes while we're asleep so want to be awakened” (05:55).

The initiative includes radios equipped with flashing strobe lights and extra loudspeakers to assist those who may need additional help in responding to weather alerts.

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6. Wayfair to Open Second Large-Format Store in Atlanta

E-commerce giant Wayfair announced plans to inaugurate a 150-square-foot storefront on Howell Mill Road in Atlanta next year, marking its second large-format location following an Illinois store opened in 2024. This strategic move aims to merge online convenience with in-store accessibility, allowing customers to purchase and take home items like furniture, home decor, and appliances on the same day.

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7. Georgia Film Week Celebrates State's Growing Entertainment Industry

Georgia Film Week is set to launch on Monday, celebrating the state's burgeoning film industry with what is anticipated to be the largest event to date. Amanda Andrews from GPB reports on the week's activities, which include:

• Georgia Film Day Party: Scheduled for March 20th at Atlanta City Hall, expecting around 400 attendees.
• Independent Filmmaker Panel: Showcasing local talent and fostering industry discussions.
• Union Information Sessions: Providing insights into the benefits and structures of industry unions.
• Legislator Meet and Greet: Facilitated by the Georgia Production Partnership (GPP), a film industry advocacy group.

Darius Evans, President of GPP, remarks, “Film Week is about celebrating the economic growth in Georgia since the film Office was founded 50 years ago” (07:05). Michael Edwards highlights the industry's expansion, noting, “We were doing two to three films a year, making about 500 to a couple million dollars a year to where we are now, where in our biggest year in the last three years we were doing $4 billion in production” (07:28).

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8. Upcoming Season of GPB’s 'Viewfinders' Adventure Photography Program

The podcast features a segment on the third season of Viewfinders, an adventure photography program airing on GPB TV. Hosts Chris Greer, a Georgia College professor and award-winning photographer, and Paul Daniel, an Atlanta-based freelance photographer, discuss the upcoming season's focus on diverse and stunning locations.

Melanie Martinez praises the integration of music into the show, stating, “It's music that you would normally hear on the radio, and it's... something that's different and maybe new for GPB” (09:19). The hosts elaborate on their plans to explore both domestic and international destinations, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining a strong connection to Georgia’s landscapes.

Ty Vaughn expresses excitement about showcasing Georgia’s coast, calling it “a beautiful 100 miles and offers tons of photography” (11:34).

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9. Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Ranked Third Nationwide

Orlando Montoya highlights that Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration has been ranked the third-best in the nation by WalletHub. The annual parade draws hundreds of thousands of visitors, making it one of the South’s largest events. The celebration excelled in categories such as traditions, weather, and affordability, surpassing notable cities like Boston and Philadelphia, and only trailing behind Chicago and New York.

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Conclusion

The March 14th episode of Georgia Today delves into critical legislative debates, celebrates cultural milestones, and provides essential updates on weather and local happenings. From the contentious discussions on lawsuit reform and pesticide liability to the vibrant festivities of Georgia Film Week and Savannah’s acclaimed St. Patrick’s Day parade, the podcast offers a comprehensive overview of the issues and events shaping Georgia.

Notable Quotes:

• Melanie Martinez: “I refuse to be used by a corporation as a shield for the consequences of their actions.” (03:04)
• Michael Edwards: “We were doing two to three films a year, making about 500 to a couple million dollars a year to where we are now, where in our biggest year in the last three years we were doing $4 billion in production.” (07:28)
• Ty Vaughn: “All the ingredients are there for a pretty significant severe weather outbreak and with that does cause the risk of some potentially strong to dangerous tornadoes.” (05:08)

For more detailed coverage and updates, listeners are encouraged to visit gpb.org/news.

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Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Opioid Alternatives Advertisement (Skipped)
• 00:20 – Podcast Introduction
• 01:21 – Lawsuit Reform Discussion
• 02:26 – Pesticides Bill Passage
• 03:04 – Melanie Martinez on Lawsuit Reform
• 05:08 – Severe Weather Advisory
• 07:05 – Georgia Film Week Coverage
• 09:19 – 'Viewfinders' Show Discussion
• 11:34 – Georgia Coast in 'Viewfinders'
• 13:24 – Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Ranking Announcement

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Note: Advertisements, introductory remarks, and concluding segments not related to content were omitted in accordance with summarization guidelines.

Transcript

[Sarah Kallis]

DBHDD is reminding Georgians to ask their doctor about alternatives to opioid pain medication. Alternatives like over the counter medications and physical therapy can be used to manage pain. More [e-mail].

[Orlando Montoya]

Hello and welcome to the Georgia Today Podcast from GPB News. On this podcast, you'll hear the latest reports from our GPB newsroom. You can send us story tips or feedback to Georgia todaypb.org Today is Friday, March 14th. I'm Orlando Montoya. On today's episode, the debate over lawsuit reform heats up at the state Capitol. A bill limiting liability for pesticide manufacturers passes the House, and Georgia Film Week celebrates contributions of the state's growing film.

[Michael Edwards]

Industry and our biggest year in the last 33 years we were doing $4 billion in production.

[Orlando Montoya]

These stories and more are coming up on this edition of Georgia Today. The debate over lawsuit reform bills at the State Capitol is heating up. GPB's Sarah Kallis reports that advocates on both sides of the issue spoke about it yesterday.

[Sarah Kallis]

Two bills that would limit lawsuits in Georgia are making their way through the House after passing the Senate. Governor Brian Kemp said that lawsuit reform was his top legislative priority. And business leaders like Michael Edwards of Mannington Mills Flooring Company say that the cost of lawsuits are burdening businesses.

[Melanie Martinez]

Businesses are at a constant risk of.

[Orlando Montoya]

Being sued, even when we abide by all the rules.

[Sarah Kallis]

But some say the law is too broad and could stop people like Melanie Martinez, a sex trafficking survivor, from seeking damages against people like hotel owners who knowingly allow crimes to occur on their property. She says civil lawsuits can help survivors get justice.

[Alexis Jolly]

We finally have a voice, and now.

[Sarah Kallis]

These settlements allow women like myself to.

[Orlando Montoya]

Rebuild themselves to find out who God.

[Sarah Kallis]

Created them to truly be. Senate Bills 68 and 69 have not yet made it to the House floor for final passage. For GPB News, I'm Sarah Kallis at the State Capitol.

[Orlando Montoya]

The Georgia House of Representatives gave final passage to a bill that prevents manufacturers from being held liable for failing to warn consumers about the health risks of a pesticide other than what is required from the Environmental Protection Agency. Proponents of Senate Bill 144, like Representative Robert Dickey, say that by strengthening protections for pesticide makers, farmers will have access to more materials and will be able to make more food.

[Sarah Kallis]

You think egg prices went up? You wait till we can't get food in this country.

[Orlando Montoya]

But opponents like Representative Rua Roman says it puts consumers health at risk.

[Melanie Martinez]

I refuse to be used by a corporation as a shield for the consequences.

[Orlando Montoya]

Of their actions the bill passed 101 to 58 and now moves to Governor Brian Kemp's desk for for his signature. Issues surrounding the new city of Mulberry were debated again Thursday in the state House Senate Bill 139 would allow the city of Mulberry to annex additional land from unincorporated Gwinnett County. Democrats opposed the measure, saying residents should have a say before becoming part of Mulberry. Representative Sam park says the impact will be felt countywide. Well, annexation impacts every single citizen of Gwinnett County. It impacts every single legislator who represents and is a member of the Gwinnett delegation because it is county money that is otherwise being taken away. Republicans pushed for the expansion, arguing it promotes local growth. The measure passed along party lines. Grammy nominated R and B singer Angie Stone was remembered at a memorial service in Atlanta today. Stone died earlier this month when the cargo van she was traveling in flipped over in a crash south of Montgomery, Alabama as she was headed back to Atlanta. The Columbia, South Carolina native was known for groundbreaking work with the hip hop trio the Sequins, and later she had R and B hits, earning her the title of Queen of Neo Soul. Fans and fellow artists continue to pay tribute to her online, honoring her influence across Seoul. R and B and hip hop music Georgia residents should be prepared for severe weather this weekend. Storms will start on Saturday afternoon and intensify into the evening, bringing threats of damaging winds and possibly tornadoes. A line of storms will move across the entire state overnight on Saturday into Sunday morning. Ty Vaughn is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Peachtree City.

[Ty Vaughn]

All the ingredients are there for a.

[Orlando Montoya]

Pretty significant severe weather outbreak and with that does cause the risk of some potentially strong to dangerous tornadoes. Western Georgia at the Alabama line is at the highest risk of severe weather, but the entire state is under some kind of severe weather watch. Forecasters say it's too early to pinpoint exact tornado risks, but they urge all Georgians to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and stay aware of changing conditions. GPB's Grant Blankenship has more hi, how are you? Are you just doing one for your.

[Alexis Jolly]

Household forecasts coincided with plans by Maconbib County's Emergency Management Agency to disperse close to 2,000 emergency weather radios paid for through a grant from FEMA.

[Orlando Montoya]

Is she blind or hard of hearing?

[Alexis Jolly]

Alexis Jolly was one of the people who lined up in Macon City hall.

[Sarah Kallis]

For a radio because we like to be aware when bad weather is coming and most bad weather nowadays comes while we're asleep so want to be awakened.

[Alexis Jolly]

The radios came with add ons like flashing strobe lights or extra loud speakers for people who need extra help waking up. GPB News I'm Grant Blankenship and Make.

[Orlando Montoya]

It Wayfair plans to open a 150 square foot store in Atlanta next year. The company will sell furniture, homes, decor, housewares and appliances at the new location on Howell Mill Road. This is Wayfair's second large format location after opening a store in Illinois in 2024. The online company says it hopes to bridge the gap between online and in store convenience with their store locations offering many items available for purchase and take home the same day. Georgia Film Week, recognizing the contributions of people working in the state's growing entertainment industry, will Start on Monday. GPB's Amanda Andrews reports. This year's celebration is expected to be the largest one yet.

[Darius Evans]

The city of Atlanta's annual Georgia Film Day party will be preceded by a week of events recognizing entertainment industry workers. The new events include an independent filmmaker panel, information about unions and a legislator meet and greet organized by the Georgia Production Partnership, a film industry advocacy group. GPP President Darius Evans says Film Week is about celebrating the economic growth in Georgia since the film Office was founded 50 years ago.

[Michael Edwards]

We were doing two to three films a year, making about 500 to a couple million dollars a year to where we are now, where in our biggest year in the last three years we were doing $4 billion in production.

[Darius Evans]

Around 400 people are expected to attend this year's March 20th film day celebration at Atlanta City Hall. For GPB News, I'm Amanda Andrews.

[Orlando Montoya]

The public television adventure photography program Viewfinders is releasing its film third season soon. Last season, the Georgia produced show saw episodes from across the state, including Tallulah Gorge, Cloudland Canyon and Georgia's coast. To learn more about viewfinders and where viewers can expect to go this season, we're joined by its two co hosts, Georgia College professor, author and award winning photographer Chris Greer and Atlanta based freelance photographer Paul Daniel. Welcome to the radio side of gpb guys.

[Melanie Martinez]

Thank you. Thank you for having us.

[Ty Vaughn]

Yes, wonderful to be here.

[Orlando Montoya]

Well, we hope listeners have seen viewfinders on GPB tv, but if not, talk a little bit about the show. It's a little bit of travel, a little bit of music, beautiful pictures kind of all combined.

[Ty Vaughn]

Yeah, I mean, the show, I think it has a little something for everybody. It's a travel show at its core. Paul and I are heading out to the most beautiful places eventually in the world. We've been doing the Southeast and now the United States and we're looking to take pictures. And along the way, we have a lot of adventures, and we meet with experts who we interview, and they talk about the ecological significance and also the conservation efforts to protect those places. And then we have some really good music that just kind of scores the show.

[Melanie Martinez]

I think we have to kind of stress that music factor because I think we got some really hip music, if I can still use that term.

[Ty Vaughn]

Your kids might take issue with it, but.

[Melanie Martinez]

Yeah, I'm old. I'm sorry. I think it brings another interest factor to the show. I mean, it's music that you would normally hear on the radio, and it's. If you ask me, I think it might be something that's different and maybe new for gpb.

[Ty Vaughn]

Yeah. Very excited about this season.

[Orlando Montoya]

And you guys shoot together in these remote settings. What's it like working with each other out there for days and hours upon end?

[Melanie Martinez]

You know something, I actually. I like working with Chris. He's a good person. And the fact that he can work with me because we leave, like, very early in the morning, and I'll be honest with you, I am not a morning person. I am, like, so not a morning person. And I think our personalities are, you know, he likes coffee. We shoot photography together. Our personalities kind of mesh, you know, well together. So I think there's a good chemistry there.

[Orlando Montoya]

Is there a destination that you'd like.

[Melanie Martinez]

To visit but you haven't yet, International or domestic? I mean, there are plenty of places, actually. We always joke about going to Canada and checking out the Canadian Rockies up there. This is going to sound crazy, because I don't even know if we spoke about this, but I want to do an African safari. I want some real wildlife, not a zoo.

[Ty Vaughn]

I will say that we do have some international locations on our radar for this season four. And so we want to just keep growing the show and bringing the beauty of the world into people's living rooms and also inspiring them to get out and see whatever they're able to.

[Orlando Montoya]

So what can viewers expect to see in season three?

[Ty Vaughn]

We went everywhere from Wyoming to New Hampshire to Vermont to Maine to the Georgia coast to New Mexico. Lots of different places.

[Melanie Martinez]

And the best thing about some of the places we've been to, we went, like, for instance, New England during the fall foliage season. So personally, I don't think that there's a better place in this country to experience the fall foliage and see the full richness, the colors of the fall than the New England area. And that was, like, a sight to behold. I think that's probably going to be one of the top episodes from this season.

[Orlando Montoya]

As a former resident of the Georgia coast, I can't help but comment that you are back on the Georgia coast in season three and you are in Georgia coast in season two. Must be a place that you guys like.

[Melanie Martinez]

Yeah. And I think it's important for us, as big as we may get on the international or United States side, I think it's really important for us to keep our Georgia roots here and let our fan base that began in Georgia know that, you know, we're still going to showcase the state.

[Ty Vaughn]

Yeah, we'll have a Georgia episode every season no matter how long we go. But we did the Golden Isles this season and I just love the Georgia coast. I think it's super special. It's only 100 miles long, but it is a beautiful 100 miles and offers tons of photography. And so Paul and I really enjoy getting down there.

[Orlando Montoya]

All right, Chris Greer and Paul Daniel, hosts of public television's Viewfinders, talking about the newest season, thank you both for coming.

[Melanie Martinez]

Thank you again for having us.

[Ty Vaughn]

Thank you so much.

[Orlando Montoya]

If you're planning to celebrate St Patrick's Day in Savannah, you're not alone. Savannah Celebration is ranked the third best nationwide, according to a new study by WalletHub. The annual parade attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, making it one of the biggest events in the South. The city's festivities scored high for traditions, weather and affordability, topping major cities like Boston and Philadelphia. Only Chicago and New York ranked higher. And that's it for today's edition of Georgia Today. If you'd like to learn more about these stories, visit gpb.org news if you haven't yet hit subscribe on this podcast, take a moment right now and keep us current in your podcast feed. If you have feedback, we'd love to hear it. Email us@georgia todaypb.org I'm Orlando Montoya. Hope you have a great weekend.

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