Compiled by Georgia Conservation Voters
Georgia is at a turning point and must focus now on two critical issues: combating climate change and defending democracy. Georgians are already experiencing the effects of climate change, as evidenced by the increase in severe storms and natural disasters across the state. 2023 was the hottest year on record. If we do not act now, temperatures will continue to rise, and the state will experience more severe weather events. Coastal Georgians face the impact of higher water levels eroding beaches, submerging lowlands, and exacerbating coastal flooding. We know that Georgians living on low incomes or in communities of color across the state disproportionately feel these effects. In moments like these, we need state and local leaders to protect our lands, air, and water.
It’s our vision that Georgians thrive in just, sustainable, and resilient communities. We work hard to connect the people of Georgia to their political power by mobilizing voters, winning elections, advancing policy, and holding elected officials accountable for their actions and votes.
Our annual scorecard is one of our most powerful tools for achieving this vision. It provides the information you need to determine whether your legislators are voting in accordance with your conservation and climate values. It also reveals behind-the-scenes stories and unseen champions during legislative sessions.
* The online scoresheet includes more legislators than the PDF version of the scorecard. These legislators were not included in the PDF version of the scorecard because they no longer serve in office.
Our work to report to you about how your legislators voted on key conservation policy during each legislative session is part of our strategic approach to building power for the environment and ensuring Georgian’s air, land, and water is protected. We call this approach the “Cycle of Accountability.”
2023-2024 Scorecard Release
Hear how we scored legislators on environmental action
The scorecard is about helping Georgians understand how their legislators are voting on critical environmental and climate issues. This year’s scorecard covers fourteen bills or resolutions during the session on hot topics like clean energy, water conservation, and voting rights. Watch the video to learn what came up this session, and how you can contact your legislators.
Tell your Legislators that you ‘know the score’ and communicate with them regularly.
One of the best ways to influence the voting records of your elected officials is to communicate regularly with them. If your legislators scored well, it’s important to thank them and to support them. If you feel you weren’t well-represented by your legislators’ votes, it’s important to hold them accountable by letting them know what you think about their votes. The Scorecard is your key to staying informed on your legislators’ votes and getting in touch with them.
Calling your legislators, visiting them in person, and sending letters through mail are effective ways to communicate with your legislators.
The Governor and Lieutenant Governor can always be contacted at the State Capitol. Except during the legislative session, state legislators should be contacted in their home districts, as listed on the current Legislators page. Whether you’re congratulating them on their score or expressing your disappointment, be direct, courteous, and polite.