SR547: SR547 Simpson, Shelly-Ann; recognize

This is a ceremonial resolution from the Georgia Senate, not a change to state law. It recognizes Shelly-Ann Simpson, who serves as Executive Director for Field Operations and Appeals at the Georgia Department of Veterans Service, the state agency that helps veterans and their families get benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The resolution recounts her career, including her appointment in June 2022 leading most of the department's staff who help veterans with VA claims and appeals, her service in the U.S. Army Reserves starting in 1994, her deployment to Bosnia in 1997 as part of a NATO peacekeeping mission, and her work as the department's Women Veterans' coordinator. The Senate commends her for her service and directs the Secretary of the Senate to provide her a copy of the resolution.

• Formally recognizes and commends Shelly-Ann Simpson on Women Veterans Appreciation Day at the Georgia Capitol.
• Directs the Secretary of the Senate to prepare and distribute a copy of the resolution to Shelly-Ann Simpson.
• Creates no new law, funding, or regulatory requirement; it is a ceremonial statement by the Senate.

The resolution names and honors Shelly-Ann Simpson personally, and references the Georgia Department of Veterans Service, the state agency where she works, and its role serving Georgia veterans and their families.

The resolution has no legal or regulatory effect on Georgians; it is a formal, symbolic honor. Its practical significance is limited to publicly recognizing one state employee's military service and work helping veterans access federal benefits.

• The whereas clauses describe Simpson's role as Executive Director for Field Operations and Appeals at the Georgia Department of Veterans Service, appointed in June 2022.
• The resolution notes she joined the U.S. Army Reserves in 1994 and was deployed to Bosnia in 1997 for a NATO peacekeeping mission, earning a NATO medal.
• The resolved clause states the Senate recognizes and commends her for her dedication, bravery, and sacrifices in serving her country.
• A further resolved clause directs the Secretary of the Senate to make a copy of the resolution available for distribution to her.

1. 2025-04-04Senate Read and Adopted (Senate)
2. 2025-04-02Senate Hopper (Senate)

• Sonya Halpern (D, SD-039)Primary sponsor
• Kenya Wicks (D, SD-034)
• Tonya Anderson (D, SD-043)
• Michael Rhett (D, SD-033)
• Ed Harbison (D, SD-015)

• veterans affairs
• women veterans
• Georgia Senate resolution
• military service recognition