What Speaker Burns Did
HB 441 was the most comprehensive equal protection bill in Georgia history. It had 20+ co-sponsors. Speaker Jon Burns killed it.
The Institutional Block
As Speaker of the House, Burns controls what bills reach the floor for a vote. He refused to let HB 441 out of committee. Until he is removed or motivated differently, no equal protection bill will pass in Georgia.
This isn't just about one bill—it's about the institutional blockade that prevents any meaningful protections from advancing through the legislative process, regardless of how much grassroots support exists.
Why Did He Kill It?
Leadership often kills abolition bills to protect members from taking "tough votes" in an election year. By burying the bill in committee, Burns prioritized establishment pragmatism over the Republican party platform.
He shielded vulnerable members from having their stance on equal protection recorded, betraying the conservative base that elected him.
Primary Burns
Speaker Burns represents House District 159, a heavily Republican district. He faces virtually no threat from Democrats.
The only mechanism for true accountability is a primary challenge from a conservative who will uphold the party platform on equal protection. If leadership will not advance the cause of justice, leadership must be replaced.
Nathan Hooks for HD 159
Nathan Hooks has stepped forward as a primary challenger to Speaker Burns, running on an abolitionist platform to bring equal protection to Georgia.
Visit Nathan Hooks' CampaignWhat Can Be Done?
01. Support the Primary
A primary challenge requires resources, volunteers, and sustained effort. Support candidates who will champion equal protection.
Learn More →02. Join the Movement
Connect with abolitionists in your district. We are building a network to hold all representatives accountable.
Get Involved →