ATLANTA – State Representative Eric Bell (D-Jonesboro) is urging public support as he presents his legislation, House Bill 1013, before the Special Rules Committee TOMORROW, Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 2 p.m. in room 515 of the Coverdell Legislative Office Building in Atlanta, Georgia.
“In Georgia, food is more than a meal—it is memory, culture and community,” said Rep. Bell. “The lemon pepper wing is not just a flavor. It is a staple of our culinary heritage, born in our neighborhoods, perfected in our kitchens and celebrated in restaurants across this state. This legislation honors the small businesses, chefs and family-owned establishments that helped build Georgia’s food identity.”
HB 1013 would designate lemon pepper as Georgia’s official chicken wing flavor.
“Lemon pepper wings have become a staple of southern cuisine in Atlanta and across Georgia,” added Rep. Bell. “This is a lighthearted bill, but it carries real meaning. Lemon pepper wings are a fan favorite that brings people together across race, culture, class and community. From ‘Lemon Pepper Lou’ at Magic City to lyrics in billboard hits from Gucci Mane, Quavo, Ziggy2Playa and Rick Ross, lemon pepper wings have been central to many of the moments and individuals who have shaped this city and state. Just like the peach represents our agricultural roots, lemon pepper wings represent Georgia’s cultural flavor and global influence.”
Rep. Bell emphasizes that Georgia’s food culture drives billions in economic activity each year and supports thousands of jobs across metro Atlanta and beyond and highlights that this designation would formally recognize a flavor that has helped define that success.
Rep. Bell encourages restaurant owners, food entrepreneurs, hospitality workers, foodies, community leaders and proud Georgians to attend the hearing. Members of the public are invited to attend and support the bill.
The full text of HB 1013 may be found here.
More information about the committee meeting and access to the livestream may be found here.
WHO: Rep. Eric Bell (D-Jonesboro)
WHAT: Special Rules Committee Meeting
WHEN: Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 2 p.m.
WHERE: Coverdell Legislative Office Building, Room 515, 18 Capitol Square S.W., Atlanta, GA 30334
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