During the 2015 legislative session, the Georgia General Assembly enacted legislation which provides for penalties to elected officials who abuse or misuse government issued purchasing cards. These penalties can include civil fines and criminal offenses and should be taken very seriously.
 
Cities that provide purchasing cards or credit cards to elected officials are now required to set specific policies regarding their use. The newly enacted law sets forth in statute specific requirements which must be in any local government policy concerning these cards. As a result, GMA has developed a short model purchasing card policy.

This model policy should not be taken as legal advice. If a city has any further questions it should consult with its city attorney. Before enacting any model policy or ordinance city officials should consult with their legal counsel to ensure everything necessary for the city to follow state law is included in the enacted policy or ordinance. 

Should you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact Rusi Patel at rpatel@gmanet.com.