ATLANTA (February 27, 2025) — On Monday, Sen. Sonya Halpern’s (D–Atlanta) legislation, Senate Bill 182, the “Georgia Music Office and Music Ready Communities Act,” passed unanimously out of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism.
“Georgia has a long and rich musical history, but growth does not just happen on its own. The creation of a Georgia Music Office is a smart, strategic step that will solidify our state as a leader in the industry into the future,” said Sen. Halpern. “We cannot afford to fall behind other states who recognize that music is economic development. Our state’s music industry is currently valued at $5 billion, a clear indicator of the strength of the industry. This office will help us organize our presence in the industry and promote economic growth through music.”
The bill would create the Georgia Music Office, which would certify cities and countries as “Music Friendly Georgia Certified Communities.” The office would be under the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.
Cities and counties dedicated as Music Friendly Georgia Certified Communities must form a local advisory board to promote music-related economic development in their communities. If SB 182 passes, Georgia would join Texas and North Carolina as one of three states with a dedicated statewide music office.
SB 182 can be found here.
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Sen. Sonya Halpern serves as Democratic Caucus Vice Chair. She represents the 39th Senate District, which includes a portion of Fulton County. She may be reached at (494) 656-9644 or via email at sonya.halpern@senate.ga.gov
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.