Bill involving auctioneers draws opposition

ATLANTA (AP) -- A state lawmaker's bill that would change regulations for auctioneers has drawn opposition, as well as concerns about a potential conflict of interest.<br /> <br /> Cities and counties have opposed the bill sponsored by state Rep. Katie Dempsey, a Rome Republican, saying that its proposed changes would penalize taxpayers. They fear it would force government entities, sheriffs and businesses to hire licensed auctioneers when they sold inventory or property.<br /> <br /> Dempsey, whose family are third-generation auctioneers, disagrees with that interpretation. She tells The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (http://bit.ly/19h2mCB ) that her measure was "totally pure in intent" and that she doesn't profit from the legislation.<br /> <br /> The newspaper reports that good-government groups and some statehouse lobbyists say Dempsey's bill is an example of an all-too-common practice: lawmakers pushing legislation on behalf of their industry or the family business.