Winning Concrete Results
Cleaning Up Dirty Politics
The 110th Congress took a real step to curb political corruption by passing Georgia PIRG-back restrictions that ban gifts and junkets from lobbyists—tactics that give powerful special interests access and influence in Congress.
Reversing Cuts In Student Aid
In the wake of drastic cuts to the Pell Grant program, our Higher Education Project researched the impact that crushing student debt has on career and life choices of graduates. We followed up with advocacy in Congress that resulted in passage of a bill in the House that will cut interest rates for student borrowers and their parents.
Alerting Parents To Dangerous Toys
In November 2006, Georgia PIRG released our 21st annual toy safety report, “Trouble In Toyland.” The report has resulted in at least 100 recalls and other enforcement actions. Our 2006 report highlighted the danger of lead in toys, prompting a ban on the chemical in play jewelry.
Making Every Vote Count
Thanks to a new law which Georgia PIRG helped pass, a pilot program used voter-verified paper records to accompany touchscreen voting machines during the November 2006 elections.
Stopping Identity Theft
In the wake of nationwide failures in data security on the part of data dealers, banks and credit card companies, Georgia PIRG helped pass a law in 2005 that requires data dealers to notify consumers if the security of their personal information is breached. Our work continues to expand identify theft legislation and stop federal laws from undercutting strong state laws.
Reducing Home Heating Bills
Georgia PIRG helped pass 2005 legislation that gives consumers a tax holiday on Energy Star products, making it cheaper for them to purchase energy-efficient home appliances. Georgia PIRG continues to work to keep these savings in place.
Maintaining Privacy
In 2005, Georgia PIRG passed the cell phone privacy bill, which requires cell phone companies to obtain a customer’s express consent before including his or her name and phone number in any wireless directory or database.
Strengthening Our Democracy
Georgia PIRG works to get big money out of politics. In 2005 we helped pass the Ethics in Government Act, which increases the financial disclosure required of both lobbyists and political candidates in the state.
