State Rep. Jon Burns will seek re-election in House District 159, which includes all or parts of Effingham, Screven and Bulloch counties. 

Daniel Almond of Clyo also qualified for the House District 159 seat Monday.

Burns was born and raised in Effingham County. He graduated from Effingham County High School and Georgia Southern University. 

Burns was first elected to the State House in November 2004 and now serves as the House Majority Leader. As majoirty leader, Burns serves as ex-officio member on all House committees and additionally on key committees: Agriculture and Consumer Affairs; Appropriations; Economic Development and Tourism; Ethics; Game, Fish and Parks; Rules; and Transportation.

“At the State Capitol, I have worked tirelessly to be a strong voice for our families, businesses, and conservative values,”said Burns, who qualified Monday. “I am proud of my record and the record of the Georgia House of Representatives. Georgia›s future is bright and I want to help keep it moving in the right direction.”

“During my time in office, we have limited the size of government, secured funding for the deepening of the Savannah Port, protected our seniors, honored our veterans, and passed pro-business legislation that respects our natural environment,” Burns continued. “We have balanced our budget and continued to make education and funding the HOPE scholarship key priorities.”

“In the General Assembly, I have been unapologetic in my efforts to protect the right to life, preserve our Second Amendment right to bear arms, defend our right to practice our faith, and provide improved health care access for all Georgians.”

“By securing funding to improve and adequately maintain our transportation infrastructure in Effingham, Bulloch and Screven counties, I have worked diligently to ensure that the citizens in House District 159 receive the resources that are needed to move our communities forward.

“I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to serve my neighbors and constituents of House District 159 at the State Capitol.  I humbly ask for your continued support and vote of confidence on May 24.”

Burns and his wife, Dayle, live on the family farm in northern Effingham County. Dayle is a retired educator. They have two grown sons, two daughters-in-law, and five grandchildren. Burns is an active member and Sunday school superintendent at Mizpah United Methodist Church. 

Rep. Bill Hitchens also qualified Monday for re-election to his seat in District 161.

Qualifying for the General Assembly runs through Friday at noon. The general primary will be held May 24.