Committee moves to designate cotton as Georgia's official fabric

Representative Jacqueline Ford presented HB 1310 to designate cotton as Georgia's official fabric, saying the state is the nation's second-largest cotton producer behind Texas and that the designation would draw attention to the industry's economic impact. Ford also linked the measure to concerns about microplastics and synthetic fibers in clothing, noting the committee discussion about relative percentages of natural versus synthetic fibers in garments.

Committee members asked informal questions about cotton terminology and textile work. Senator Burns said he is a "big fan of cotton" and moved to pass the bill; Senator Sam Watson seconded. The committee voted to advance HB 1310.

The measure is symbolic recognition intended to promote the state's cotton industry rather than to change regulatory or funding programs.