Georgia Constitution Practice Exam

What control does the General Assembly have over home rule powers of counties?

1. The General Assembly can impose local laws that supersede home rule.

2. Counties have full autonomy over all decisions without state intervention.

3. The General Assembly can only pass laws related to taxation.

4. Home rule powers cannot be altered by state law.

The correct answer is: The General Assembly can impose local laws that supersede home rule.

The General Assembly has the authority to impose local laws that can supersede home rule provisions. This means that while counties in Georgia have a degree of autonomy under the home rule power, the state legislature retains the ability to enact laws that affect those local decisions. Home rule powers allow counties to govern themselves in certain areas, such as local planning, regulations, and services, but this autonomy is not absolute. The state's power to legislate in matters that impact local governance is crucial in maintaining a framework that addresses broader state interests. For example, if a county were to implement policies that conflict with state laws or public policy interests, the General Assembly can step in and establish state law that would take precedence. This dynamic reflects the balance of power between local and state authorities, ensuring that local governance aligns with state objectives when necessary. The other options reflect misunderstandings about the nature of home rule and the authority of the General Assembly. They do not recognize this important aspect of state oversight over local governments in Georgia.