Who has the authority to impeach an official of the state government?

The House of Representatives holds the authority to impeach an official of the state government in Georgia. This power is established in the Georgia Constitution, which outlines the impeachment process as a legislative function assigned to the House. When an official, such as a governor or other state-appointed officials, is deemed to have committed misconduct or is found unfit for office, the House of Representatives initiates the impeachment proceedings. This involves drafting articles of impeachment, which must be approved by a majority vote of the House members.

After the House successfully votes to impeach, the case is then referred to the Senate, which conducts the trial and ultimately decides whether to convict or acquit the official in question. This division of powers ensures a system of checks and balances within the state government, where the legislative branch has a key role in overseeing the conduct of state officials.