Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has signed a measure granting Tybee Island and other local governments in the state the authority to hold promoters of unpermitted events accountable for resulting costs.
Senate Bill 433 would empower local governments to pursue legal action against promoters or organizers of unpermitted events that cause public nuisances, impeding the travel of law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services, or other government personnel acting officially. Local governments can seek reimbursement for costs associated with public safety, traffic management, and sanitation services on behalf of the public.
“I appreciate Governor Kemp’s support in signing Senate Bill 443 into law,” state Sen. Ben Watson, R–Savannah, said in a statement. “Governor Kemp understands the importance of preventing situations where promoters circumvent local permitting processes, leaving citizens to bear the costs of responding to and cleaning up after unpermitted events.”
Meanwhile, the state’s fiscal 2025 budget, which is awaiting Kemp’s signature, includes $4 million for the renourishment of Tybee Island beach.