What is wrong with HB 179?

The billboard industry continues to make claims that HB 179 will create jobs and economic growth. Where is the evidence? Common sense really says that the only jobs created will be within the industry to cut trees and within GA DOT to keep up with the numerous new mandated functions under HB 179. As far as economic growth is concerned, why do businesses curtail their use of billboards during tough economic conditions if billboards are good for the economy. Common sense says that none of us will eat more just because there are more signs advertising places to eat.

How can the industry get away with creating more government bureaucracy with unfunded mandates AND asking taxpayers to pay them to remove illegal billboards?

Here are a few observations about the bill.

States in economic competition with Georgia and with fewer billboards outperform Georgia...

State     GSP 2009             Rank      Unemployment
              ($millions)

VA          408,443                 9              6.7%

NC          398,042                 10           9.8%

GA          395,194                 11           10.2&

GSP = Gross State Product

Targeted View Zone - The industry claims that 'only' 350 feet will be clear cut. Click this image for a more realistic picture.

States with billboard bans in place for several years lead with the lowest unemployment:
Hawaii - 6.4%
Maine - 7.3%
Vermont - 5.8%
Alaska - 8.1%

States with Highest Number of billboards lead the nation in unemployment:
Florida - 12.0 %
Michigan - 11.7%
Georgia - 10.2%

The real costs of Georgia's billboard management and how it subsidizes the industry. Click this image for details. The latest numbers from GA DOT verify the claim that the industry has been subsidized by tax payers by over $500,000 annually..

Georgia does not have a tree problem... It has a billboard problem... HB 179 is a bigger shovel to make the problem worse.

Here is an example of the type of trees that can be clear cut by HB 179. Click on the image for a larger view.
  • HB 179 removes the last barrier to billboard proliferation along Georgia's scenic roads.
  • HB 179 removes considerable local control over beautification projects
  • HB 179 allows self promotional signs to count as non-vacant sign
  • HB 179 allows industry to take public property for private gain
  • HB 179 mandates on GA DOT are "administrative nightmore" according to DOT spokesperson
Common sense says that the Georgia businesses have plenty of places to advertise on Georgia highways. More billboards will not produce more customers.