HB1310: HB1310 State symbols; cotton as official state fabric; designate

26 LC 60 0287/AP House Bill 1310 (AS PASSED HOUSE AND SENATE) By: Representatives Ford of the 170th, Dickey of the 134th, Meeks of the 178th, O’Steen of the 169th, Williams of the 168th, and others A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT To amend Article 3 of Chapter 3 of Title 50 of the Official Cod e of Georgia Annotated,1 relating to other state symbols, so as to designate cotton as the official state fabric; to provide2 legislative findings; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other3 purposes.4 BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA:5 SECTION 1.6 The General Assembly of Georgia finds that:7 (1) Cotton is a natural fiber used for cloth, batting, and bindings. The fabric is made from8 either the weaving or knitting process;9 (2) In clothing, it is known for its breathability, allowing air to circulate freely around10 the skin. Cotton helps regulate body temperature, keeping skin cool and dry;11 (3) Cotton is hypoallergenic and wearing it reduces skin irrit ations and is oftentimes12 recommended by dermatologists;13 (4) Wearing cotton prevents the addition of harmful microplastics to our air and water14 that synthetic fiber leaves behind, leading to cleaner, healthier communities;15 H. B. 1310 - 1 - 26 LC 60 0287/AP (5) Around one million acres of cotton is grown in nearly 100 of Georgia's 159 counties16 every year contributing over $3 billion annually to the economy of this state;17 (6) Cotton is a vital component to healthy rural Georgia economies, which are based on18 stable farm incomes; and19 (7) May cotton continue to be the fabric of our lives in the great state of Georgia.20 SECTION 2.21 Article 3 of Chapter 3 of Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to other22 state symbols, is amended by adding a new Code section to read as follows:23 "50-3-96.24 Cotton is designated as the official Georgia state fabric."25 SECTION 3.26 All laws and parts of laws in conflict with this Act are repealed.27 H. B. 1310 - 2 -