GOP lawmaker in Georgia wants to impeach Democratic AG for refusing to sue on health care

Ga. lawmaker wants to impeach AG over health care

ATLANTA — A Georgia legislator wants to begin the impeachment process against his state attorney general for refusing to sue the federal government over health care reform.

Republican state Rep. Mark Hatfield filed a bill Tuesday against Democratic Attorney General Thurbert Baker, who is also running for governor.

The resolution claims Baker is required by the Georgia constitution to follow Republican Gov. Sonny Perdue’s direction and join 14 other states challenging the Democratic-backed health care bill.

Baker says the state lacks a viable legal claim. Perdue says if needed he will appoint outside counsel.

The Republican-led House would have to approve the resolution by a simple majority. The Senate would then hold a trial and two-thirds must vote for impeachment.