Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

Georgia Senate Bill SR994

Introduced
3/19/26  
Enrolled
3/20/26  

Caption

Newman, Donald; condolences

Summary

Senate Resolution 994 is a memorial resolution honoring the life and memory of Donald Newman of Mount Zion, Carroll County, Georgia. The resolution recounts his long record of public service, including more than 44 consecutive years on the Mount Zion City Council, 44 consecutive years on the Carroll County Water Authority board, and leadership roles in his church and in the Mt. Zion/Carroll County Primary Health Care Clinic. It also highlights his reputation for integrity, fairness, kindness, and devotion to family and community. The resolution does not create new law, amend any statute, or appropriate funds. Its effect is ceremonial and commemorative: it formally expresses the Senate’s condolences, recognizes Newman’s contributions to local government and civic life, and directs the Secretary of the Senate to provide a copy to his family. As a result, the bill’s impact is limited to state legislative recognition and public tribute rather than any regulatory or legal change. The general sentiment surrounding the resolution is strongly positive and respectful. The text is entirely laudatory, emphasizing Newman’s longevity in office, faith, service, and community leadership. Because there is no recorded committee discussion or vote history provided, there is no evidence of opposition or debate in the available materials. There are no notable policy controversies in the bill itself, since it is a condolence resolution. The only potentially noteworthy point is the emphasis on Newman’s exceptionally long tenure in local office and his role in community institutions, which underscores why the Senate chose to formally honor him. Any discussion would likely center on his legacy rather than disagreement over the resolution’s substance.

Impact

SR994 has no substantive legal effect on Georgia statutes, regulations, or government programs. It is a ceremonial Senate resolution that records condolences, honors an individual citizen, and authorizes distribution of the resolution to the family. Its impact is limited to official recognition by the General Assembly and does not alter the rights or duties of any person or entity.

Sentiment

The sentiment is uniformly respectful, admiring, and mournful. The resolution praises Donald Newman’s decades of public service, church involvement, and community leadership, presenting him as a valued civic figure whose passing is deeply regretted by the Senate. No votes, amendments, or committee remarks are available to suggest any dissent or mixed reaction.

Contention

There is no apparent contention in the available record. The measure is a noncontroversial condolence resolution, and the text contains no policy disputes or competing viewpoints. The only emphasis is on Newman’s unusually long service and broad community contributions, which are presented as reasons for unanimous respect rather than disagreement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.