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HB 1394

Community Affairs, Department of; ensure that Rosenwald Schools are treated as historic properties

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Floyd Griffin and 5 co-sponsors

Georgia bill designates Rosenwald Schools as historic properties, protecting African American educational heritage sites from demolition while enabling preservation funding and tax benefits.

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Bill Summary · HB 1394

Legislative bill overview

HB 1394 directs Georgia's Department of Community Affairs to designate Rosenwald Schools as historic properties under state law. Rosenwald Schools were a network of African American educational facilities built in the early 20th century with funding from Julius Rosenwald. This legislation ensures these structures receive formal historic property protections and recognition.

Why is this important

Rosenwald Schools represent significant African American cultural and educational heritage across the South. Formal historic designation provides legal protections against demolition, establishes eligibility for preservation grants and tax incentives, and supports restoration efforts. This recognition acknowledges an important chapter in Black educational history during the Jim Crow era.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Designation may trigger state funding obligations for preservation, maintenance, or grants that could strain budgets
  • Property owner impact: Historic designation can impose restrictions on current owners' ability to modify, demolish, or develop properties, potentially affecting private landowners
  • Scope and implementation: Unclear how many schools qualify, what specific protections apply, and how the Department of Community Affairs will enforce compliance without additional resources

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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