ATLANTA -- Georgia's governor sounded skeptical Monday about issuing a public apology for slavery, an idea that got a boost last week with the support of a Republican leader.

"Repentance comes from the heart," Gov. Sonny Perdue said Monday. "I'm not sure about public apologies on behalf of other people as far as the motivation for them."

A resolution acknowledging and apologizing for Georgia's role in the slave trade had been expected Monday but now could come later in the week. Republican Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, who presides over the state Senate, said he's working on the proposal. A resolution, as opposed to a bill, would not require Perdue's approval.