SR15: SR15 Strolling Thunder Day; recognize February 6, 2025

25 LC 112 2661 Senate Resolution 15 By: Senators Strickland of the 42nd, Kirkpatrick of the 32nd, McLaurin of the 14th, Merritt of the 9th and Dixon of the 45th A RESOLUTION Recognizing February 6, 2025, as Strolling Thunder Day at the state capitol; and for other1 purposes.2 WHEREAS, our brains grow faster during the first few years of life than at any later point3 in our lives; and4 WHEREAS, more than 635,000 children under five years old reside in communities across5 Georgia, representing the state's future leaders; and6 WHEREAS, children's early experiences and relationships lay the foundation for future7 learning, health, and behavior; and8 WHEREAS, proper nutrition, medical care, and high-quality early education are all essential9 building blocks for a child's development; and10 WHEREAS, Georgia has made gains in supporting young children an d their families in11 recent years, including an historic investment in Georgia's Lot tery-Funded Pre-K, an12 S. R. 15 - 1 - 25 LC 112 2661 increased emphasis on early childhood mental health, and increased supports for maternal13 health and well-being; and14 WHEREAS, despite this, many of Georgia's families with young ch ildren continue to15 struggle to meet high standards of health, education, and family stability; and16 WHEREAS, for example, nearly one in five of Georgia's children under five years old live17 in poverty, and one in ten of its babies are born with low birth weight; and18 WHEREAS, GEEARS: Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students, a nonprofit19 organization, has brought together families from across Georgia to share the joys and20 challenges of raising young children with Georgia's lawmakers f or Strolling Thunder Day21 at the state capitol; and22 WHEREAS, Strolling Thunder Day emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our youngest23 learners in public policy for stronger families, vibrant communities, and a prosperous state;24 and25 WHEREAS, Georgia's future begins with babies, and all Georgians can help make sure that26 families have the resources and support they need to give their babies a strong start in life.27 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body28 recognize February 6, 2025, as Strolling Thunder Day at the state capitol.29 S. R. 15 - 2 - 25 LC 112 2661 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed30 to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the31 press.32 S. R. 15 - 3 -