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Senate Resolution 15
By: Senators Strickland of the 42nd, Kirkpatrick of the 32nd, McLaurin of the 14th, Merritt
of the 9th and Dixon of the 45th
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing February 6, 2025, as Strolling Thunder Day at the state capitol; and for other
1
purposes.2
WHEREAS, our brains grow faster during the first few years of life than at any later point3
in our lives; and4
WHEREAS, more than 635,000 children under five years old reside in communities across5
Georgia, representing the state's future leaders; and6
WHEREAS, children's early experiences and relationships lay the foundation for future7
learning, health, and behavior; and8
WHEREAS, proper nutrition, medical care, and high-quality early education are all essential9
building blocks for a child's development; and10
WHEREAS, Georgia has made gains in supporting young children and their families in11
recent years, including an historic investment in Georgia's Lottery-Funded Pre-K, an12
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increased emphasis on early childhood mental health, and increased supports for maternal
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health and well-being; and14
WHEREAS, despite this, many of Georgia's families with young children continue to15
struggle to meet high standards of health, education, and family stability; and16
WHEREAS, for example, nearly one in five of Georgia's children under five years old live17
in poverty, and one in ten of its babies are born with low birth weight; and18
WHEREAS, GEEARS: Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students, a nonprofit19
organization, has brought together families from across Georgia to share the joys and20
challenges of raising young children with Georgia's lawmakers for Strolling Thunder Day21
at the state capitol; and22
WHEREAS, Strolling Thunder Day emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our youngest23
learners in public policy for stronger families, vibrant communities, and a prosperous state;24
and25
WHEREAS, Georgia's future begins with babies, and all Georgians can help make sure that26
families have the resources and support they need to give their babies a strong start in life.27
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body28
recognize February 6, 2025, as Strolling Thunder Day at the state capitol.29
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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed
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to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the31
press.32
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