hb343.html

06 LC 21 8106/AP

House Bill 343 (AS PASSED HOUSE AND SENATE)

By: Representatives Borders of the 175th, Black of the 174th, Shaw of the 176th, and Houston of the 170th

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT

To amend Article 3 of Chapter 3 of Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to other state symbols, so as to designate the Valdosta State Universitýs Peach State Summer Theatre as Georgiás Official Musical Theatre; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA:

SECTION 1.

WHEREAS, the partnership between Valdosta State University and the Jekyll Island Authority to produce the Jekyll Island Musical Theatre has been dissolved and Valdosta State University has moved its summer theatre program to the Valdosta State University campus as the Peach State Summer Theatre; and

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia has recognized the importance of tourism to the economic and cultural well-being of its people through the establishment of the Department of Economic Development; and

WHEREAS, the enhancement of tourist attractions in Georgia, which would encourage tourists to extend their stay in Georgia, benefits the state; and

WHEREAS, many groups in the state are working to improve the quality of artistic and recreational experiences for Georgia residents and for out-of-state tourists as well; and

WHEREAS, the existence of musical theatre is a vital component of the artistic and cultural life of Georgia; and Georgia is committed to encourage and support artistś activities of the highest quality for the enjoyment and enrichment of the citizens; and

WHEREAS, Valdosta State University, a unit of the University System of Georgia, has received a Regentś Award for Excellence in the Theatre and has a 15 year history of producing the Jekyll Island Musical Theatre Festival, a professional repertory musical theatre company; and

WHEREAS, Valdosta State University is moving its summer theatre to Valdosta, Georgia, and will continue to present musical theatre of outstanding artistry to residents and tourists; and

WHEREAS, that summer theatre is named the Peach State Summer Theatre in celebration of the State of Georgia.

SECTION 2.

Article 3 of Chapter 3 of Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to other state symbols, is amended by striking in its entirety Code Section 50-3-69, relating to the official musical theatre, and inserting in lieu thereof the following:

"50-3-69.

(a) The 'Jekyll Island Musical Peach State Summer Theatre Festival' is designated as the official musical theatre of the State of Georgia.

(b) The Department of Economic Development and other public agencies and leaders in the tourism industry are encouraged to work together to maximize advertising programs which permit citizens of other states and nations to learn of the Jekyll Island Musical Peach State Summer Theatre Festival and to visit the State of Georgia for tourism purposes."

SECTION 3.

All laws and parts of laws in conflict with this Act are repealed.