Sen. Wilkinson receives committee assignments

ATLANTA - North Georgia's newest state senator has been appointed to several legislative committees, including the Education, Health and Human Services and Economic Development committees.

Sen. John Wilkinson of Toccoa has also been selected to serve as Secretary of the Agriculture Committee when the legislative session convenes on Jan. 9 at the State Capitol.

As Executive Secretary of Georgia's FFA, Sen. Wilkinson worked for 30 years preparing young leaders to grow jobs in Georgia. He holds a bachelor's degree in agriculture and a master's degree in education, both from the University of Georgia.

"I am overly pleased at my new committee assignments," Sen. Wilkinson said. "I pledge to use my backgrounds in agriculture and education to further the needs of my constituents and the needs of all Georgians as we move to make this great state even better."

Senate President Pro Tem Tommie Williams and Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers said they are looking forward to working with Sen. Wilkinson.

"I am honored to welcome Sen. Wilkinson to the State Senate and I am encouraged by his enthusiasm to take on many important roles in these vital committees," Williams said. "He has given countless years of service to the agricultural community in Georgia, and we are eager to utilize his experience in the Agriculture Committee, among others. I look forward to working with Sen. Wilkinson as we work toward a common goal of bringing jobs to Georgians, strengthening our education system, and lessening the tax burden on hardworking Georgians."

"John Wilkinson has a long history working in education and agriculture," Sen. Rogers said. "These two issues are among the most critical for our state. He will be a significant voice for common-sense legislation from day one. It will be an honor to serve with him."

Also welcoming Sen. Wilkinson are Sens. Jeff Mullis, Renee Unterman and Greg Goggans.

"As a new state senator, I believe Sen. Wilkinson will play a vital role in providing fresh insight and expertise to the committees he serves," said Sen. Mullis. "I am excited to work with Sen. Wilkinson and anticipate the many contributions that he will make on behalf of the citizens of this great state."

"I sincerely look forward to working with the new committees this upcoming legislative session," said Sen. Unterman. "I consider it a great privilege to serve alongside these senators and believe they will do an outstanding job helping the citizens of this great state."

"I am excited to welcome Sen. Wilkinson to the State Senate," said Sen. Goggans. "I am confident that he will prove to be an outstanding legislator and great addition to his committees."