Georgia HR1477: Sports, Joseph A. "Joe"; honoring the life and memory; condolences

What the bill says

A resolution Honoring the life and memory of Joseph A. "Joe" Sports; and for other purposes.

From the introduced text:

A RESOLUTION Honoring the life and memory of Joseph A. "Joe" Sports; and for other purposes. WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens with the passing of Joseph A. "Joe" Sports on January 9, 2026; and WHEREAS, Joseph A. "Joe" Sports was born on October 17, 1934, in Douglas, Georgia, a beloved son of Mae and Elisha Sports, and while still in high school, he began his journalism career at The Douglas Enterprise, where he eventually served as associate editor; and WHEREAS, after being drafted in 1957, he served for 18 months as a photographer within the United States Army, faithfully carrying out his duties while traveling across Europe; and WHEREAS, upon his honorable discharge, Joseph A. "Joe" Sports entered public service in Washington, D.C., as a staff member for Georgia Congresswoman Iris F. Blitch; and WHEREAS, he later returned to Georgia to serve as news director at WALB-TV in Albany, where his insight, professionalism, and political acumen further strengthened his reputation as a trusted communicator; and H. R. 1477 LC 112 3723 WHEREAS, Joseph A. "Joe" Sports was selected thereafter by James H. Gray to serve as executive director of the Democratic Party of Georgia, a role he held until the election of Jimmy Carter as governor; and WHEREAS, following Governor …

Read the full official text

Sponsors

• Jon Burns (R, HD-159) · primary sponsor
• Butch Parrish (R, 158)
• Gerald Greene (R, 154)
• Ron Stephens (R, 164)
• Alan Powell (R, 33)

Latest actions

1. February 25, 2026: House Read and Adopted
2. February 25, 2026: House First Readers
3. February 25, 2026: House Hopper

Common questions

What is HR1477?

HR1477 is a bill in the Georgia Legislature (2025-2026 Regular Session): Sports, Joseph A. "Joe"; honoring the life and memory; condolences.

What does HR1477 do?

In its own words: A resolution Honoring the life and memory of Joseph A. "Joe" Sports; and for other purposes.

What is the status of HR1477?

Passed both chambers as of February 25, 2026. Latest action: House Read and Adopted (February 25, 2026).

Who sponsored HR1477?

Jon Burns (R, HD-159), with 4 co-sponsors.

Where is the official record for HR1477?

On the Georgia Legislature website: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/73667