HR147: HR147 Rabun County; Waterfall Capital of Georgia; commend

This is a commemorative resolution from the Georgia House of Representatives, not a change to state law. It highlights Rabun County, located in northeast Georgia, as home to about 120 waterfalls, more than double any other Georgia county, situated on over 240,000 acres of mostly public land managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Georgia Power. The resolution describes how these waterfalls draw visitors from across the country, support local hiking and outdoor tourism businesses, and contribute to Rabun County's economy. It also references the 'Waterfall Effect,' a claimed phenomenon where negative ions released by moving water may reduce stress and boost energy. The resolution formally designates Rabun County as the 'Waterfall Capital of Georgia' and directs the Clerk of the House to distribute copies to the public and press.

• Formally designates Rabun County as the 'Waterfall Capital of Georgia' through a House resolution.
• States that Rabun County has approximately 120 waterfalls, more than double any other Georgia county.
• Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare and distribute copies of the resolution to the public and press.
• Does not create any new law, funding, or regulatory requirement; it is a symbolic statement by the House.

This resolution primarily affects Rabun County and its tourism-related businesses, such as outdoor outfitters and guide services, by giving the county an official honorary designation. It also involves the Clerk of the House of Representatives, who must distribute copies of the resolution.

While the resolution carries no legal force or funding, the official 'Waterfall Capital of Georgia' designation could be used to promote tourism and support outdoor recreation businesses in Rabun County, giving the region a formal branding tool recognized by the state legislature.

• The whereas clauses describe Rabun County's geography, noting over 240,000 acres of mostly public land and about 120 waterfalls.
• The resolution references the 'Waterfall Effect,' describing a belief that negative ions from moving water relieve stress and increase energy.
• The resolving clause formally recognizes Rabun County as the Waterfall Capital of Georgia.
• A further resolving clause directs the Clerk of the House to make copies available to the public and press.

1. 2025-02-04House Read and Adopted (House)
2. 2025-02-04House First Readers (House)
3. 2025-02-04House Hopper (House)

• Victor Anderson (R, HD-010)Primary sponsor

• Rabun County
• tourism
• outdoor recreation
• waterfalls
• North Georgia economy