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SR 323

Senate Study Committee on Making Georgia the No. 1 State for Tourism; create

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brandon Beach and 17 co-sponsors

Senate Resolution 323 establishes a committee to boost Georgia's tourism, aiming to enhance economic impact and cultural promotion, especially ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Senate Passed/Adopted By Substitute
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Bill Summary · SR 323

Summary of Senate Resolution 323

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: SR 323
  • Title: Senate Study Committee on Making Georgia the No. 1 State for Tourism
  • Status: Senate Passed/Adopted By Substitute
  • Introduced: February 28, 2025
  • Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

Senate Resolution 323 aims to establish a Senate Study Committee focused on enhancing Georgia's tourism sector. The committee's goal is to explore strategies and opportunities that will position Georgia as the leading state for tourism in the United States. This initiative recognizes the state's rich history, diverse culture, and significant economic contributions from the tourism industry.

Key Provisions

  1. Creation of the Committee:

    • A Senate Study Committee on Making Georgia the No. 1 State for Tourism is established.

  2. Membership:

    • The committee will consist of five members appointed by the President of the Senate:
      • One member from the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs
      • One member from the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
      • One member from the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and the Environment
      • Two additional members selected based on their interest and experience in tourism.

  3. Powers and Duties:

    • The committee will study the current conditions, needs, and challenges facing Georgia's tourism sector and recommend actions or legislation as deemed necessary.

  4. Meetings:

    • The chairperson will call meetings at times and locations deemed necessary for the committee to fulfill its objectives.

  5. Funding and Allowances:

    • Members will receive allowances as per Georgia law, with funding sourced from the Senate's appropriated funds.

  6. Reporting:

    • The committee must file a report with findings and recommendations before its abolishment date, which is set for December 1, 2025. Reports must be approved by a majority vote of the committee.

  7. Abolishment:

    • The committee will be dissolved on December 1, 2025, unless extended by further legislative action.

Impact

  • Economic Significance:

    • In 2023, Georgia's tourism sector generated a $79.7 billion economic impact and over $5 billion in tax revenues. The committee's work could lead to enhanced tourism strategies that further boost these figures.

  • Cultural and Recreational Benefits:

    • The committee will explore ways to promote local festivals, sports events, and natural attractions, benefiting both residents and visitors.

  • Future Events:

    • With Atlanta set to host eight FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, the committee's recommendations could leverage this opportunity for increased tourism exposure.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 28, 2025: Introduced and placed in the Senate Hopper.
  • March 3, 2025: Read and referred to committee.
  • March 13, 2025: Favorably reported by the Senate Committee.
  • March 18, 2025: Read a second time in the Senate.
  • March 20, 2025: Recommitted for further consideration.
  • March 21, 2025: Favorably reported by committee by substitute.
  • April 2, 2025: Passed/adopted by the Senate.

This resolution represents a proactive approach to enhancing Georgia's tourism industry, with the potential for significant economic and cultural benefits across the state.

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

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