HB 1310: State symbols; cotton as official state fabric; designate

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 Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to other state symbols, so as to designate cotton as the official state fabric; to provide legislative findings; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA:

SECTION 1.

The General Assembly of Georgia finds that:

(1) Cotton is a natural fiber used for cloth, batting, and bindings. The fabric is made from either the weaving or knitting process;

(2) In clothing, it is known for its breathability, allowing air to circulate freely around the skin. Cotton helps regulate body temperature, keeping skin cool and dry;

(3) Cotton is hypoallergenic and wearing it reduces skin irritations and is oftentimes recommended by dermatologists;

(4) Wearing cotton prevents the addition of harmful microplastics to our air and water that synthetic fiber leaves behind, leading to cleaner, healthier communities;

(5) Around one million acres of cotton is grown in nearly 100 of Georgia's 159 counties every year contributing over $3 billion annually to the economy of this state;

(6) Cotton is a vital component to healthy rural Georgia economies, which are based on stable farm incomes; and

(7) May cotton continue to be the fabric of our lives in the great state of Georgia.

SECTION 2.

Article 3 of Chapter 3 of Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to other state symbols, is amended by adding a new Code section to read as follows:

"50-3-96.

Cotton is designated as the official Georgia state fabric."

SECTION 3.

All laws and parts of laws in conflict with this Act are repealed.