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 The Chronicle welcomes you online! Please feel free to respond to these editorials or letters to the editor by sending your letters to the editor.

We condense letters; most, as published, won't exceed 300 words. A letter must include the writer's name and city, which will be published, and an address and telephone number for verification, which will not be published. Writers may be limited to one letter every 30 days. Open letters, letters to third parties and poetry are not considered. Letters from people living outside the Chronicle's circulation area usually are not considered.

Calls legislator 'well-paid lobbyist'

Web posted March 9, 2000

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Editor, The Chronicle

As the father of three daughters, my worst nightmare is that I will get a phone call informing me that one of my children has been injured or killed by a drunken driver. I dare say that all of us who are parents share that same concern.

I was appalled to learn that Rep. Robin Williams, R-Augusta,sponsored a bill in the Georgia House to allow the alcohol content in beer sold in our state to increase to 14 percent. Current law limits the alcohol level to 6.1 percent.

His bill was approved by the House and is currently being considered by the Georgia Senate. If approved, local governments wanting to legalize the sale of more potent beer would have to hold a referendum to allow voters a say in the matter.

This is irresponsible legislation that will only serve to increase the number of deaths and serious injuries caused by drunken drivers on our highways. I believe it can only lead to further decay in the moral condition of our community.

Rep. Williams proudly boasts that his bill will generate increased beer sales and additional tax revenues and will be a ``great economic development for the state.''

No doubt, the liquor and beer lobby will reward Rep. Williams for carrying their banner by contributing thousands of dollars to his re-election campaign. ...

I have long contended that Rep. Williams is nothing more than a well-paid lobbyist masquerading as a state legislator. He abuses our sacred public trust by catering to any special interest that will fatten his wallet and lavish him with free trips and meals.

Such a man does not deserve to be re-elected to public office.

Hopefully, our more mature and experienced senators will defeat Rep. Williams' bill when it reaches the floor of the Georgia Senate.

I urge the citizens who read this letter to contact your local state senators and ask that they reject this bill.

Sonny Pittman, Augusta