Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Business and Legal Communities Supportive of Competition Law Changes

Readers of our Competition Law Blog know we've been following the progress of HB 173, sea change legislation that would make enforcement of non-competition and non-solicitation agreements easier. One of our white papers looks at some ways HB 173 would accomplish that, and in the process, help attract new business to the state. CityBiz just picked up this story, referencing the white paper and some testimony we recently offered in support of the new law. http://atlanta.citybizlist.com/yourcitybiznews/detail.aspx?id=67871.

So where does the law stand? With HB 173 signed into law last year, the legislative process is again moving forward. The Georgia legislature must first approve a constitutional amendment that would enable, and make effective, HB 173. Once both chambers approve that amendment -- and based upon a House hearing last week, there appears to be widespread support -- it goes to the ballot. In November, Georgians will then have an opportunity to vote by referendum.

We hope you'll assist in raising awareness and generating discussion about an important change to our state's competitive legal framework. For the full white paper, go to http://tinyurl.com/ybwd723.