SR851: SR851 Georgia Senate; creation of a life sciences caucus; encourage

26 LC 52 1038 Senate Resolution 851 By: Senators Hufstetler of the 52nd, Watson of the 1st, Echols of the 49th, Still of the 48th, Summers of the 13th and others A RESOLUTION Encouraging the creation of a life sciences caucus in the Georg ia Senate; and for other1 purposes.2 WHEREAS, the Georgia Senate recognizes the life sciences sector as a critical component3 of this state's economic growth, workforce development, and pub lic health infrastructure4 impacting urban, suburban, and rural communities in this state; and5 WHEREAS, the life sciences encompass the scientific study of li ving organisms and life6 related processes and span diverse fields, including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical7 devices, diagnostics, industrial biotechnology, and agricultural biotechnology; and8 WHEREAS, Georgia is home to world-class research universities, academic medical centers,9 technical colleges, innovative start-ups and established compan ies, and local, regional,10 national, and global manufacturers that focus on the life sciences and contribute significantly11 to this state's economic competitiveness; and12 WHEREAS, continued advancement in therapeutics, diagnostics, me dical devices, and13 agricultural innovation by the life sciences sector is essential to improving patient outcomes,14 S. R. 851 - 1 - 26 LC 52 1038 strengthening food security and sustainable practices, addressing unfulfilled medical needs,15 and enhancing quality of life; and16 WHEREAS, the life sciences sector provides high-income employme nt opportunities that17 require diverse skill sets and contribute significantly to this state's workforce development18 and long-term economic competitiveness; and19 WHEREAS, continued investments in infrastructure, talent develo pment, education, and20 advanced manufacturing in the life sciences sector strengthen this state's position as a leader21 in innovation and enhance healthcare access, food security, environmental sustainability, and22 public health in this state; and23 WHEREAS, policymakers will benefit from ongoing education and e ngagement with life24 sciences industry leaders, academic institutions, workforce partners, and patient communities25 to better understand the opportunities and challenges facing this rapidly evolving sector; and26 WHEREAS, a life sciences caucus in the Georgia Senate will establish a bipartisan forum27 for legislators to develop a comprehensive understanding of thi s state's life sciences28 ecosystem and promote education and dialogue regarding workforce development, research,29 innovation, manufacturing, and commercialization; and30 WHEREAS, a life sciences caucus in the Georgia Senate will allo w legislators to support31 policies that enhance the state's competitiveness and foster a strong environment for growth32 and investment in the life sciences sector and engage with stakeholders through briefings, site33 visits, and informational sessions to better inform legislative decision making.34 S. R. 851 - 2 - 26 LC 52 1038 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body35 encourage the creation of a life sciences caucus in the Georgia Senate.36 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed37 to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the38 press.39 S. R. 851 - 3 -