If you don’t know about Georgia Watch, you need to pay attention. It began its efforts in 2002 as a non-profit consumer advocacy group and since that time has made its mark as one of the best such groups in the country. A lot of that is due to Allie Wall, the Executive Director, who has been there from the beginning and has a knack for organization and motivation. (This is not to detract from the other excellant staffers.)

This interview with Allie was recorded before two legislative hearings which took place last week. You can read more about what happened at the hearings at GeorgiaWatch.com.

One hearing concerned legislation to allow consumers to freeze their credit. There were 3 bills introduced in the 2007 session which did not pass but which are still alive for the 2008 session: HB 35, 38, 130. These bills are a bipartisan effort headed up by Tommy Benton (R-31), Rob Teilhet (D-40) and Calvin Hill (R-21). All 3 are pending in the House Banks and Banking Committee which is chaired by James Mills (R-25).

About 39 states allow consumers to freeze their credit, but not Georgia. The credit bureaus don’t want consumers to be able to freeze their credit. Maybe the lobbyists for the credit bureaus will have their identities stolen in 2008 and at least one of the bills will get passed.

The other hearing concerned legislation to repeal an almost 20-year old law that requires auto insurance companies to obtain prior approval from the Insurance Commissioner before raising your premiums. Rep. Bill Hembree (R-67) introduced HB 867 at the 2007 session and it will still be alive in 2008. I don’t know why, after 20 years, Hembree thinks there is a reason to change the law. You can go to Project Vote Smart for information on Hembree’s campaign finances and voting record on the issues. The bill is pending in the House Insurance Committee which is chaired by Tom Knox (R-24). Another hearing is scheduled for later in the fall.

Now is the time to call your legislator and let them know what you think!