Lawmakers consider putting $40 million toward Georgia's parks

Georgia conservationists are urging lawmakers to reserve about $40 million annually to help purchase more parks and maintain nicer green space.

Under the bill, 75 percent of the existing state sales tax on outdoor recreation equipment would be funneled into a conservation fund.

According to reports, a bipartisan group of lawmakers that include House Majority Leader Jon Burns is backing the proposal. Gov. Nathan Deal is reportedly "receptive" to the measure, a spokesperson for the governor said.

Conservation groups say that about 80 percent of Georgia voters would be in favor of the proposed constitutional amendment.

Constitutional amendments require two-thirds approval in both chambers and voters' approval in a statewide election.