Under Georgia's Home Rule, counties and municipalities have authority to do what?

• A. They may govern local affairs, enact ordinances, provide services, and raise revenue within state limits
• B. They may govern federal laws
• C. They may declare independence from the state
• D. They may only hire staff

Answer: (A)

Local self-government is the core idea here: counties and municipalities have the authority to govern local affairs, create and enforce ordinances, provide essential services, and raise revenue, all within the state’s framework. They derive these powers from the Georgia Constitution and state laws, allowing them to handle zoning, public health and safety, police, fire, public works, and other local matters. Their actions must align with state and federal law, so they can’t override federal statutes or constitutional protections. They also can’t declare independence from the state. The notion of only hiring staff is far too narrow; Home Rule gives them broad, locally focused powers to address community needs through laws, services, and revenue tools.