SR970: SR970 Colvin, Justice Verda M.; honor

This resolution is a ceremonial honor from the Georgia Senate. It does not change any law. It recounts Justice Verda M. Colvin's biography, including her Atlanta upbringing, her education at Sweet Briar College and the University of Georgia School of Law, and her legal career as a prosecutor and federal attorney before she became a Superior Court judge in the Macon Judicial Circuit. The resolution notes her 2020 appointment to the Georgia Court of Appeals and her 2021 appointment to the Supreme Court of Georgia by Governor Brian Kemp, calling her the first African American woman appointed to that court by a Republican governor. The Senate formally commends her, and directs the Secretary of the Senate to send her a copy of the resolution.

• Formally honors and commends Justice Verda M. Colvin for her career and appointment to the Supreme Court of Georgia.
• Recites her educational background, prior legal positions, and judicial service as findings of the Senate.
• Directs the Secretary of the Senate to prepare and send a copy of the resolution to Justice Colvin.
• Creates no new law, funding, or regulatory requirement; it is a ceremonial statement only.

The resolution directly names Justice Verda M. Colvin. It has no legal effect on the general public, agencies, or businesses, since it is a ceremonial honor rather than a change to Georgia law.

Because this is a commemorative resolution, it does not alter anyone's rights, obligations, or funding. Its practical effect is limited to the Senate's public recognition of Justice Colvin's career and a copy of the resolution being delivered to her.

• The whereas clauses detail Justice Colvin's education, legal career, and judicial appointments, including her time as an Assistant Solicitor, Assistant District Attorney, and Assistant United States Attorney.
• The resolution notes her nearly six years as a Superior Court Judge in the Macon Judicial Circuit and her 2020 appointment to the Georgia Court of Appeals.
• The resolution notes her July 20, 2021 appointment to the Supreme Court of Georgia by Governor Brian Kemp.
• The resolving clause states the Senate honors and commends her for her achievements and service.
• A further resolved clause directs the Secretary of the Senate to make a copy available for distribution to Justice Colvin.

1. 2026-03-19Senate Read and Adopted (Senate)
2. 2026-03-18Senate Hopper (Senate)

• Sonya Halpern (D, SD-039)Primary sponsor
• Bo Hatchett (R, SD-050)
• Josh McLaurin (D, SD-014)
• Harold Jones (D, SD-022)
• Randal Mangham (D, SD-055)
• Elena Parent (D, SD-044)

• judicial appointments
• Supreme Court of Georgia
• Senate resolution
• legal profession honors