Law enforcement officers with the Georgia State patrol are voicing their concerns over the high number of fatal vehicular crashes that occurred in Southwest Georgia. In the month of February 16 people lost their lives on roadways in the region, while across the state the number goes up to 88. Still, officials say that the overall number is down by 20 percent, and troopers will increase road stops and safety checks.

Raising the minimum wage up to $10.10 per hour is a top priority for State Representative Erica Thomas. The Austell Democrat is putting forth legislation that would increase the minimum wage from its current state level of $5.15 and hour above the federal level of $7.25 an hour.

Arrests were made when over 20 drug sniffing dogs and their handlers went to several campuses in Colquitt County. No drugs or alcohol were found at the C. A. Gray Junior High or at the Colquitt County Achievement Center but four students at Colquitt County High School were charged; two for misdemeanor possession of marijuana and two others for underage possession of alcohol-three males and one female.

State lawmakers could vote today on a proposal that would permit licensed handgun carriers 21 years of age and older to bring their weapons onto college campuses. The requirement in the legislature calls for bills to have passed in at least one chamber by a specified time period in order to remain viable for presentation in next year’s session. Crossover Day comes on the 28th day of the current session as lawmakers attempt to pass as many bills as possible.