Rep. Robert Dawson

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Article 6 of Chapter 2 of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to the "Quality Basic Education Act," so as to provide for coursework and educational programs and activities on the history of Black Americans through the history of the United States and their contributions to American society; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Article 1 of Chapter 1 of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to general provisions relative to education, so as to require testing of drinking water in child care learning centers and schools for lead contamination; to provide for notice and reporting of test results and remediation plans; to provide for definitions; to provide for rules and regulations; to provide for an exemption; to prohibit waivers; to provide for related matters; to provide a short title; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic resolution (not a binding law) supporting Georgia's potential policy change to raise the minimum school dropout age from 16 to 17 years. It does not directly affect students or change current law, but expresses the Georgia House's endorsement of such a policy. The resolution cites statistics on graduation rates, economic impacts of dropouts, and research linking higher education to better outcomes as justification. It aims to encourage state action to improve educational attainment and workforce readiness for Georgia students.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a substantive bill) passed by the Georgia House of Representatives. It honors the life and memory of Mother Hattie Lou Prothro-Newton, a Fulton County Schools dietitian, church member, and community figure who passed away. The resolution expresses the House's condolences to her family and acknowledges her 30-year career in school nutrition, faith-based service, and dedication to family and community. It has no policy impact or effect on any laws or regulations, serving solely as a formal expression of respect.

Maddy summaryThis is a House resolution (HR 305) honoring Richard B. Sagers, a Black veteran and truck driver who challenged racial discrimination in the transportation industry. It commemorates his 1972 landmark class-action lawsuit, *Sagers v. Yellow Freight System*, which exposed discriminatory hiring practices under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and helped dismantle racial barriers in trucking. The resolution, adopted by the House on February 19, 2025, recognizes his legacy on the 32nd anniversary of his death, acknowledging his role as the first Black over-the-road driver in the Southern Conference and his contributions to civil rights. It has no policy impact beyond commemoration.

Maddy summaryHR 259 is a ceremonial resolution passed by the Georgia House of Representatives to formally commend Dr. Mike Looney, the superintendent of Fulton County Schools and recipient of Georgia's 2024 Superintendent of the Year award. It recognizes his leadership in overseeing 87,000 students across 104 schools, managing pandemic recovery efforts, and implementing initiatives like the "Bridge to Success" plan that improved graduation rates and academic outcomes. The resolution has no policy impact - it serves solely as a symbolic honor, with no new requirements or funding changes for Dr. Looney or the district.

Maddy summaryHR 229 is a ceremonial resolution passed by the Georgia House of Representatives to recognize Colonel (Ret.) Christopher Jenkins on his military retirement after 40 years of service. The resolution commends his distinguished career, including six overseas deployments, leadership roles, and numerous military awards like the Bronze Star Medal. It does not create new laws or affect any policies - it solely serves as a formal expression of appreciation for his service to Georgia and the nation. The resolution was adopted by the House on February 11, 2025, and directs the Clerk to provide a copy to Colonel Jenkins.

A RESOLUTION creating the House Study Committee on Minority Business Enterprises, Women Owned Businesses, and Veteran Owned Businesses in State Contracting; and for other purposes.

Maddy summaryThis non-binding resolution supports revising Georgia's school funding formulas (QBE/FTE) to better address student needs. It specifically calls for improved funding to expand wraparound services like mental health support, counseling, and family engagement programs for students requiring additional academic and social assistance. The resolution does not change current funding but urges future revisions to ensure formulas adequately support diverse student populations. It was introduced in the Georgia House as a procedural step expressing legislative support for potential changes.

A RESOLUTION commending Creekside High School's Career and Technical Student Organizations and recognizing February 5, 2025, as Career and Technical Student Organizations Day at the state capitol; and for other purposes.