Independent Order of Odd Fellows Week; recognize April 20-26, 2025
Summary
Senate Resolution 499 is a commemorative resolution that recognizes April 20 through April 26, 2025, as Independent Order of Odd Fellows Week in Georgia. The resolution notes the organization’s long history of promoting goodwill and advancing the welfare of humanity, and it highlights the group’s 206th anniversary in North America and 180th anniversary in Georgia.
The measure does not create a new program, impose requirements, or change substantive law. Instead, it expresses the Senate’s appreciation for the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Georgia and directs the Secretary of the Senate to provide a copy of the resolution to the organization. Its practical effect is ceremonial and honorary, with no direct regulatory or fiscal impact on state statutes, agencies, or private parties.
Impact
SR 499 has no substantive legal effect and does not amend Georgia statutes, create duties, or appropriate funds. Its impact is limited to official recognition by the Senate of a civic/fraternal organization and the issuance of an enrolled copy for distribution to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Georgia.
Sentiment
The available record suggests a positive, noncontroversial sentiment around the resolution. The bill is framed as a tribute to a longstanding fraternal organization with a history of community service, and there are no recorded votes, committee objections, or transcripted debate indicating opposition. The absence of controversy is consistent with the ceremonial nature of the measure.
Contention
No notable points of contention are evident in the bill text or available legislative history. Because the resolution is purely commemorative, there are no competing policy positions, affected stakeholders, or implementation disputes reflected in the record. The only identifiable interested party is the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Georgia, which requested the recognition.