Sen. Billy Hickman

Maddy summaryThis resolution creates a temporary Senate Study Committee focused on examining unscrupulous companion animal breeding practices, such as puppy mills and backyard breeding operations. The committee, composed of five appointed Senate members, will study issues including animal welfare concerns, enforcement gaps in existing laws, and impacts on shelters and communities. It will issue recommendations by December 1, 2025, but does not enact new laws or directly affect any specific group. As a procedural resolution, it solely establishes a study body with no immediate policy changes.

A RESOLUTION applauding Senator Brandon Beach for his exceptional service in the Georgia State Senate, his leadership in both public and private sectors, and congratulating him on his recent appointment as United States Treasurer in the current Trump Administration; and for other purposes.

Maddy summaryThis resolution creates a Senate Study Committee to examine inclusive educational settings for students with disabilities in Georgia. The committee, appointed by the Senate President, will study current conditions, benefits (like improved academic performance and independence), and barriers to inclusion, then recommend potential legislative changes. It does not enact new laws but will report findings by December 2025. The committee’s work directly affects students with disabilities and educators in Georgia’s public schools. The resolution is procedural, focusing solely on research and recommendations, not immediate policy implementation.

Maddy summarySR 217 creates a Senate Study Committee focused on addressing chronic absenteeism (students missing 10% or more of school days) affecting over 21.7% of Georgia students. The committee, composed of six Senate members appointed by the President, will study causes like health issues, transportation barriers, and family instability, then recommend solutions by December 1, 2025. This procedural resolution does not enact new laws but directs the committee to gather input from schools, families, and communities to inform future policy.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors William Edwards, a University of North Georgia student and Army ROTC cadet, for being named a presidential fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress. It recognizes his academic achievements (including a perfect 4.0 GPA), military leadership roles, ROTC scholarship, and participation in programs like the Russian language scholarship. The resolution is purely ceremonial, expressing the Senate's congratulations and best wishes without creating any new policies or obligations.

A RESOLUTION congratulating the Savannah State University men's basketball team for winning the 2025 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Basketball Tournament Championship; and for other purposes.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 481) formally recognizes and commends Post 4 Villa Rica of the Georgia State Patrol for winning the 2024 "Post of the Year" award. It honors the post's achievements, including handling over 6,600 service calls, reducing crash fatalities by 22%, and improving response times through collaborative solutions. The resolution has no legal effect or policy changes - it is purely ceremonial, extending commendation to the post's leadership and personnel.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 486) commending Colt's Manufacturing Company for its efforts promoting firearm safety. It specifically recognizes Colt's 175-year history, its Safety Impact Award program (which supports nonprofit safety initiatives), and its partnerships with football ambassadors donating to groups like Project ChildSafe and the International Hunter Education Association. The resolution expresses formal praise for Colt's focus on education, secure storage, and community engagement in responsible firearm ownership. It does not create new laws or policies, as it is solely a symbolic expression of support.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 464), not a law. It formally recognizes and commends Dr. Jermaine Whirl for his leadership in higher education and his upcoming role as President of Savannah State University, effective April 1, 2025. The resolution highlights his professional achievements, including rebranding Augusta Technical College, establishing new academic programs, and receiving awards like the Georgia Trend 40 Under 40 honor. It has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws, regulations, or constituents beyond the personal commendation of Dr. Whirl.

Maddy summaryThis resolution dedicates the intersection of State Route 400 and Whelchel Road/Burnt Stand Road in Lumpkin County as the "Trooper First Class 2 Chase W. Redner Memorial Intersection" to honor Georgia State Patrol Trooper Chase Winston Redner, who died in the line of duty on February 20, 2024. The bill directs the Georgia Department of Transportation to erect and maintain appropriate signage at this location. It is a commemorative resolution with no substantive policy changes, solely recognizing Trooper Redner's service and sacrifice.