WABE's Week In Review: Lawmakers move legal sports betting forward and new legislation could keep more people in jail longer

Georgia senators passed a bill to allow sports gambling Thursday, but not before deciding that the measure also requires a state constitutional amendment, throwing ultimate passage into doubt. #gapolhttps://t.co/shOMRhNXVS

— WABE News (@wabenews) February 1, 2024

Republican State Senator Bill Cowsert offers an amendment to Senate Bill 386 (legalizing sports betting) that would require a voter referendum to legalize sports betting. #gapol pic.twitter.com/8XZvVdlDJP

— Rahul Bali (@rahulbali) February 1, 2024

Less leeway for judges…

Georgia, once a self-proclaimed leader in criminal justice reform, is sliding a little further toward its old lock-'em-up ways.https://t.co/o3GstSz69k

— WABE News (@wabenews) February 2, 2024

Defining hate…

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on Wednesday signed a law defining antisemitism in state law, proclaiming support for Jewish residents despite concerns the measure would hamper people opposing the actions of Israel in Gaza. #gapol https://t.co/nVykbtMTD2

— WABE News (@wabenews) January 31, 2024

Money to rebuild…

Georgia is getting nearly $640 million as part of a landmark nationwide opioid settlement. But there is no guarantee of how the funds will be spent, or that those most impacted will be able to participate in spending decisions.https://t.co/yj026aFNRy

— WABE News (@wabenews) January 31, 2024

Also in this episode…

– Juma Sei has more on Gov. Brian Kemp approving a controversial new map for the upcoming Cobb County school board elections.

– Marlon Hyde reports on plans from Atlanta-based UPS to cut thousands of non-union positions, like managers and contractors, this year.

– DorMiya Vance has more on the Jonesboro High School Marching Band’s new Super Bowl commercial.