Sen. Billy Hickman last week celebrated what his office says is “the successful implementation” of the Georgia as a Model Employer (GAME) Program, which the Senate passed during the 2024 Legislative Session.
As part of this initiative, the Georgia Senate has welcomed Martha Haythorn, who is serving as a Special Operations Assistant during the 2025 Legislative Session. Martha, born with Down Syndrome, works in the Senate Ante Room and contributes to the Senate’s hospitality efforts. Her hiring marks a significant milestone as the first placement under the GAME Program within the Georgia Senate.
“It is inspiring to see the GAME Program come to life, and I am thrilled to welcome Martha to the Senate team,” said Sen. Hickman. “Her work exemplifies the value that individuals with disabilities bring to the workplace. The State of Georgia is leading by example in supporting the recruitment and retention of individuals with disabilities, and I hope this initiative will inspire similar efforts across our private business sectors.”
The GAME Program, established through Senate Bill 384, promotes the recruitment, advancement and retention of qualified individuals with disabilities within state agencies. The legislation, signed into law by Governor Brian P. Kemp in May 2024, officially went into effect on July 1, 2024.
Sen. Billy Hickman serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education and Youth. He represents the 4th Senate District which includes Bulloch, Candler, Effingham, and Evans County as well as a portion of Chatham County. He may be reached at 404.463.1371 or by email at Billy.Hickman@senate.ga.gov.
