In the state of Georgia juveniles who are in the system are at a distinct disadvantage. The disadvantage stems from their incarceration and their residency status in Georgia; they are considered homeless individuals. But yet these kids receive an education behind bars and can get a GED. Many of these young people excel at their education and can qualify for grants. But they cannot get the Georgia HOPE scholarship for education because they have no official residence while incarcerated.
Because of this status, the prospective college-bound student must wait 12 months after release to eligible for the state of Georgia’s HOPE scholarship. Black legislators in Georgia are behind getting this changed are are trying to get passage of Georgia House Bill 1040 to correct this injustice. Spearheading the change are black Georgia state Representatives Rahn Mayo, “Able” Mable Thomas, Sandra Scott, Dee Dawkins-Haigler, Craig Gordon and Calvin Smyre.
The Georgia Black Legislative Caucus has 61 members, which is among the largest in the nation. One would think that this would give them an advantage as a voting bloc, however, Georgia is a solidly Republican state. So far, the bill has been read one time and it will be up to the committee chair, Republican Carl Rogers, to determine if the proposal will proceed.
