HR 889: Johnson, Wyatt Thomas, Jr.; extraordinary contributions to journalism, civic life, and public service in Georgia and across the nation; efforts to champion mental health awareness, strengthen democratic institutions; promote citizenship; commend

This is a ceremonial resolution from the Georgia House of Representatives recognizing Wyatt Thomas Johnson Jr., known as Tom Johnson, for his life and career. It recounts his path from a young reporter at The Macon Telegraph to leadership roles at The Dallas Times Herald, the Los Angeles Times, and CNN, as well as his earlier service in the White House under President Lyndon B. Johnson. The resolution highlights his advocacy for mental health awareness after publicly discussing his own experience with clinical depression, and his continued involvement with Georgia through educational and civic programs. It formally commends him on behalf of the House and directs the Clerk of the House to provide copies of the resolution to Johnson and his family. It does not change any Georgia law; it is a statement of recognition.

• Formally commends Wyatt Thomas Johnson Jr. on behalf of the Georgia House of Representatives for his career in journalism and public service.
• Recounts his roles at The Macon Telegraph, The Dallas Times Herald, the Los Angeles Times, and CNN, and his White House service under President Lyndon B. Johnson.
• Recognizes his public advocacy for mental health awareness stemming from his own experience with clinical depression.
• Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare and deliver copies of the resolution to Johnson and his family.
• Creates no new law, funding, or regulatory requirement; it is purely a ceremonial honor.

The resolution directly names and honors Wyatt Thomas Johnson Jr. and his family, who will receive copies of it. It has no legal effect on any other group of Georgians, businesses, or agencies.

As a ceremonial resolution, this measure carries no legal or financial consequences for Georgians. Its significance lies in the Georgia House publicly recognizing a Georgia native's career in journalism and his role in raising awareness about mental health.

• The whereas clauses detail Johnson's biography, including his education, White House service, and leadership at major news organizations including CNN.
• The resolving clause has the House of Representatives officially honor and commend Johnson for his contributions to journalism, democracy, and mental health awareness.
• A further resolved clause directs the Clerk of the House to make copies of the resolution available to Johnson and his family.

1. 2025-03-31House Read and Adopted (House)
2. 2025-03-31House First Readers (House)
3. 2025-03-31House Hopper (House)

• Scott Holcomb (D, HD-101)Primary sponsor

• mental health awareness
• journalism
• civic honors
• Georgia history