ATLANTA (AP) -- House lawmakers will not vote again on a bill that eases the job requirements for a high-ranking post in the Georgia National Guard.
Republican Rep. Chuck Sims failed Friday to get the votes needed to reconsider legislation first approved Thursday. The bill now heads to the state Senate.
The legislation eliminates requirements that candidates for the post of assistant adjutant general have a minimum of five years of experience in the Georgia National Guard. Gov. Nathan Deal's administration said the change is needed to attract qualified officers for the position. Deal's spokesman said the current law prevents officers with extensive military service outside the Georgia National Guard from leading the organization.
Critics said easing the rule will open the door to more political patronage.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)