SR313: SR313 Cohen, Lawrence J. "Doc"; recognize

This is a ceremonial resolution passed by the Georgia Senate rather than a bill that changes state law. It honors Lawrence J. "Doc" Cohen, who founded businesses that developed dozens of Great American Cookie Company franchise locations and held leadership roles in national franchise organizations. The resolution recounts his business achievements, his advocacy work for small businesses and franchising before Congress, and his philanthropic involvement with groups like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. It formally states that the Senate recognizes and commends him and directs the Secretary of the Senate to prepare a copy of the resolution for him. It does not create, amend, or repeal any Georgia statute.

• Formally recognizes and commends Lawrence J. "Doc" Cohen for his career in the franchise industry.
• States the Senate's best wishes for his future health and happiness.
• Directs the Secretary of the Senate to prepare an official copy of the resolution for distribution to Cohen.
• Does not create any new law, funding, requirement, or penalty; it is purely a commendation.

The resolution directly names and honors one individual, Lawrence J. "Doc" Cohen. It has no regulatory or legal effect on any other Georgians, businesses, or agencies.

Resolutions like this carry no legal weight and change no law or funding; their significance is symbolic, offering public, official recognition of an individual's career and community contributions from the Georgia Senate.

• The whereas clauses describe Cohen's business career founding Deblan Corporation and Cookie Associates and developing Great American Cookie Company franchise locations.
• The whereas clauses describe his leadership roles in the International Franchise Association and franchise advocacy organizations.
• The resolved clause formally commends Cohen for his contributions to the franchise industry.
• The final clause directs the Secretary of the Senate to provide Cohen a copy of the resolution.

1. 2025-03-03Senate Read and Adopted (Senate)
2. 2025-02-28Senate Hopper (Senate)

• Jason Esteves (D, SD-035)Primary sponsor
• Sonya Halpern (D, SD-039)
• Nan Orrock (D, SD-036)
• Josh McLaurin (D, SD-014)
• RaShaun Kemp (D, SD-038)
• Emanuel Jones (D, SD-010)
• Donzella James (D, SD-028)
• Kenya Wicks (D, SD-034)

• Senate resolution
• franchise industry
• ceremonial recognition