House Resolution 197
By: Representative Dubnik of the 29th
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing February 6, 2025, as Strolling Thunder Day at the state capitol; and for other
purposes.
WHEREAS, our brains grow faster during the first few years of life than at any later point
in our lives; and
WHEREAS, more than 635,000 children under five years old reside in communities across
Georgia, representing the state's future leaders; and
WHEREAS, children's early experiences and relationships lay the foundation for future
learning, health, and behavior; and
WHEREAS, proper nutrition, medical care, and high-quality early education are all essential
building blocks for a child's development; and
WHEREAS, Georgia has made gains in supporting young children and their families in
recent years, including an historic investment in Georgia's Lottery-Funded Pre-K, an
increased emphasis on early childhood mental health, and increased supports for maternal
health and well-being; and
WHEREAS, despite this, many of Georgia's families with young children continue to
struggle to meet high standards of health, education, and family stability; and
WHEREAS, for example, nearly one in five of Georgia's children under five years old live
in poverty, and one in ten of its babies are born with low birth weight; and
WHEREAS, GEEARS: Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students, a nonprofit
organization, has brought together families from across Georgia to share the joys and
challenges of raising young children with Georgia's lawmakers for Strolling Thunder Day
at the state capitol; and
WHEREAS, Strolling Thunder Day emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our youngest
learners in public policy for stronger families, vibrant communities, and a prosperous state;
and
WHEREAS, Georgia's future begins with babies, and all Georgians can help make sure that
families have the resources and support they need to give their babies a strong start in life.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body recognize February 6, 2025, as Strolling Thunder Day at the state
capitol.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the
public and the press.