HB881: HB881 Holidays; first day of the legislative session each year as Civility Day; designate

Georgia law currently has no formal observance dedicated to civility in the legislature. This bill would add a new section to the state's holidays and observances law (O.C.G.A. Chapter 4 of Title 1) declaring the first day of each year's legislative session as 'Civility Day.' The bill opens with a long list of legislative findings, including historical references to George Washington's youthful writings on civility, quotes from civility advocates, and a set of nine practices lawmakers are encouraged to follow, such as listening actively and disagreeing respectfully. These findings do not create enforceable rules; the only operative legal change is the new Code section naming the day. The bill repeals any conflicting laws and does not specify a separate effective date beyond the standard process for a signed act.

• Adds a new Code section (O.C.G.A. § 1-4-27) that names the first day of each year's legislative session 'Civility Day' in Georgia.
• Includes legislative findings describing civility principles and practices, without creating any enforceable duty or penalty.
• Repeals any existing laws that conflict with the new designation, a standard closing provision.
• Does not establish a paid holiday, change legislative rules, or create any new program or funding.

The bill mainly affects the Georgia General Assembly itself, since it applies to the first day of the legislative session; it has no direct impact on private citizens, businesses, or other levels of government beyond a symbolic state observance.

Because the bill only creates a symbolic designation and legislative findings, it would not change anyone's legal rights, obligations, or daily activities. Its main effect is to formally encourage civil conduct among lawmakers at the start of each session.

• Section 1 lists legislative findings on civility, including historical references and nine specific practices lawmakers are urged to follow.
• Section 2 adds new Code section 1-4-27, designating the first day of the legislative session each year as 'Civility Day' in Georgia.
• Section 3 repeals any laws or parts of laws that conflict with the Act, a standard closing provision with no independent substantive effect.

1. 2025-04-02House Second Readers (House)
2. 2025-03-31House First Readers (House)
3. 2025-03-28House Hopper (House)

• Lisa Campbell (D, HD-035)Primary sponsor
• Carolyn Hugley (D, HD-141)
• Sheila Jones (D, HD-060)
• Shea Roberts (D, HD-052)
• Billy Mitchell (D, HD-088)

• legislative civility
• Georgia holidays and observances
• General Assembly session
• state symbolic designations