Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HR314

Introduced
2/19/25  
Enrolled
2/19/25  

Caption

Rathburn, Chelsea; distinguished Poet Laureate of Georgia; commend

Summary

House Resolution 314 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing and celebrating Chelsea Rathburn as the distinguished Poet Laureate of Georgia. The resolution recites her background, education, literary achievements, publications, awards, and service as an ambassador for poetry and the literary arts in Georgia. It also highlights her role in promoting reading, writing, literacy, storytelling, and statewide poetry initiatives, including her work with Georgia Poetry in the Parks and the annual Poet Laureate’s Prize for high school students. The resolution does not create new law, amend existing statutes, or appropriate funds. Instead, it formally expresses the House of Representatives’ appreciation for Rathburn’s contributions and directs the Clerk to provide her with an official copy. Its practical effect is limited to public recognition and commendation, with no regulatory or legal changes affecting state agencies, schools, or private parties.

Impact

HR 314 has no substantive legal impact on Georgia law because it is a nonbinding House resolution. It does not amend the code, alter the duties of any state office, or change the Poet Laureate position itself; rather, it serves as an official legislative tribute to an individual and to the literary arts. The only operational action required is the preparation and distribution of an enrolled copy of the resolution to Chelsea Rathburn.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and celebratory. The bill text is entirely laudatory, emphasizing Rathburn’s accomplishments, public service, and cultural contributions to Georgia. No committee debate, votes, or recorded opposition are provided, and the available context suggests the resolution was intended as a unanimous or near-unanimous commendation rather than a contested measure.

Contention

There are no notable points of contention in the available record. Because the resolution is honorary and noncontroversial, it does not appear to have generated disagreement over policy, funding, or legal effects. The only substantive focus is on Rathburn’s qualifications and her role in promoting poetry and literacy statewide.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HJR311

Commending Virginia Youth Poet Laureate.

GA HJ311

Commending the Virginia Youth Poet Laureate.

GA SB901

California Poet Laureate.

GA SJR0593

A RESOLUTION to designate Marlene Edwards Tidwell as "Poet Laureate Emerita of Tennessee."

GA HB1046

Establishing the Pennsylvania Poet Laureate and the Pennsylvania Poet Laureate Nomination Committee; and providing for their powers and duties.

GA HR1331

Congratulating Adelie Donovan on being named the 2025 Hays County Youth Poet Laureate.

GA H3593

Relative to the position of poet laureate for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

GA H3590

Relative to the position of poet laureate for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

GA HR218

Cumberbatch, Carleen; 2025 Distinguished Older Georgian; commend

GA SF3187

Minnesota Youth Poet Laureate appropriation

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.