HR 1305: Garrett, Dr. James Matthew; honoring the life and memory; condolences

This is a memorial resolution passed by the Georgia House of Representatives to honor Dr. James Matthew Garrett after his death. It does not change any Georgia law. Instead, it recounts his life story, including his education at the University of Georgia, his career in organizational development at Emory University and as a Principal Partner at Deloitte, and his decades of volunteer leadership with the Human Rights Campaign advocating for LGBTQ+ equality. The resolution formally states that House members mourn his passing and directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare a copy of the resolution for his family. Resolutions like this are symbolic gestures rather than binding legislation.

• Formally expresses the Georgia House of Representatives' regret over the death of Dr. James Matthew Garrett and honors his life and memory.
• Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare an official copy of the resolution for distribution to Garrett's family.
• Recites his biography and public service record, including work at Emory University, Deloitte, and the Human Rights Campaign, without creating any legal obligation.

The resolution directly affects the family of Dr. James Matthew Garrett, who will receive an official copy, and reflects recognition from the Georgia House of Representatives. It does not impose obligations on the public, businesses, or government agencies.

This resolution carries no legal or regulatory effect; it does not change Georgia law, create funding, or impose requirements. Its significance is ceremonial, providing public recognition of an individual's life and community contributions and formal condolences to his family.

• The resolution's whereas clauses describe Garrett's background, education at the University of Georgia, and career achievements at Emory University and Deloitte.
• It notes his over two decades of volunteer leadership with the Human Rights Campaign and his recognition as one of Georgia's Most Influential Leaders in 2020.
• It references honors he received, including Ashburn's Key to the City and a proclaimed 'Matt Garrett Day.'
• The resolving clause states the House's regret at his passing and honors his memory.
• A further resolving clause directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to provide a copy of the resolution to his family.

1. 2026-02-10House Read and Adopted (House)
2. 2026-02-10House First Readers (House)
3. 2026-02-10House Hopper (House)

• Park Cannon (D, HD-058)Primary sponsor
• Imani Barnes (D, HD-086)
• Karla Drenner (D, HD-085)
• Samuel Park (D, HD-107)

• memorial resolution
• Georgia House of Representatives
• LGBTQ+ advocacy
• community recognition