Georgia Becomes 19th To Sue Feds Over Health Care Law ATLANTA, GA (WABE) - Georgia is officially the 19th state to sue the federal government over the new health care law.

A veteran lawyer from Macon is Georgia's special Attorney General in the class action lawsuit.

Frank C. Jones declined a recorded interview. But he did confirm to WABE his role as special attorney general. Jones led Atlanta office the well known King and Spalding law firm for 24 years. Bert Brantley, Governor Sonny Perdue's spokesman, says that experience was the main reason Jones was asked to step in.

"He's respected by folks on any side of the political spectrum," said Brantley. "He's very well respected for his ability but also his even temperament and his ability to argue a side."

Jones does have strong Georgia GOP ties. He represented Governor Perdue, a Republican, in a legal fight against Georgia Attorney General Thurbert Baker, a Democrat, over redistricting.

Any state, including Georgia, that joins the class action suit now doesn't have to pay. That's why WABE legal analyst Page Pate wonders what role Jones will play.

"There were many states who stepped up to the plate before Georgia," said Pate. "I would expect those states, especially if they're paying most of the expenses, will really take the charge and do most of the front line work."

Jones is stepping in for Baker who refused to sue. Baker, whose running for Governor, argues there's not a strong legal case against the health care law. Perdue argues forcing people to buy health insurance, among other concerns, is unconstitutional. © Copyright 2012, WABE