HR1796: HR1796 State departments and agencies responsible for the management of public funds; review and divest from investments in Israeli bonds; urge

26 LC 65 0095 House Resolution 1796 By: Representatives Berry of the 56th, Bell of the 75th, Holly of the 116th, Romman of the 97th, and Cannon of the 58th A RESOLUTION Urging all state departments and agencies responsible for the management of public funds1 to review and, where appropriate, divest from investments in Is raeli bonds; and for other2 purposes.3 WHEREAS, the State of Georgia is committed to advancing justice , equity, and the4 protection of human rights for all people; and5 WHEREAS, public funds represent not only financial resources bu t also the values and6 principles of the people of Georgia, and therefore should be invested in a manner consistent7 with those values; and8 WHEREAS, ethical investment practices call for transparency, ac countability, and the9 avoidance of financial involvement in activities that may contribute to violence, instability,10 or human rights concerns; and11 WHEREAS, concerns have been raised regarding the use of public funds in investments that12 may be connected, directly or indirectly, to ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises abroad;13 and14 H. R. 1796 - 1 - 26 LC 65 0095 WHEREAS, the citizens of Georgia have expressed interest in ensuring that state managed15 investments reflect principles of peace, human dignity, and responsible stewardship of public16 resources; and17 WHEREAS, the State of Georgia has a responsibility to regularly review and evaluate its18 investment practices to ensure alignment with evolving ethical standards and public19 expectations; and20 WHEREAS, increased transparency and oversight in state investme nt portfolios can21 strengthen public trust and ensure that financial decisions are made in a manner consistent22 with the values of the people of this state.23 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that24 the members of this body urge all state departments and agencie s responsible for the25 management of public funds to review and, where appropriate, divest from investments in26 Israeli bonds.27 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized28 and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution avai lable for distribution to the29 Office of the State Treasurer, the public, and the press.30 H. R. 1796 - 2 -