Goodman – Senator Goodman Communicates

By Carol A. Gasser Moore |

GEORGIA – State Sen. Russ Goodman, a seventh-generation farmer from South Georgia and chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee, spent much of July laying the groundwork for the state’s number one industry, even amid a quiet legislative session.

Though no new bills were introduced during the month, Goodman focused on community outreach and policy planning in preparation for the upcoming Joint Agriculture Issues Summit, scheduled for Thursday, August 21, in Perry. Goodman co-chairs the summit with House counterpart Rep. Robert Dickey, and the two aim to bring together farmers, industry leaders and lawmakers to discuss pressing concerns such as labor, regulatory challenges, environmental policy and the future of trade for Georgia agriculture.

“In preparation for the summit, I’ve been meeting with stakeholders across the state to gather input and shape the agenda,” Goodman told Lanier County News, emphasizing that meaningful policymaking often begins “in a field, not a hearing room”.

Event organizers say attendees should RSVP by August 8, and that the venue will host panel discussions, breakout sessions and listening forums to spotlight both immediate challenges and long-term sustainability for rural Georgia.

By the numbers / highlights:

• Leadership role: Goodman served as chairman of the agriculture committee and continued to shape the summit agenda behind the scenes.
• Community engagement: Actively met with farmers, agricultural businesses, and state officials throughout July.
• Event planning: Summit on August 21 in Perry, with RSVPs due by August 8 and a full agenda forthcoming.