Rep. Eric Bell Urges Public Support at Committee Hearing to Expand the Hope Scholarship Today

ATLANTA - State Representative Eric Bell (D-Jonesboro) is urging public support as he presents his legislation, House Bill 206, before the House Higher Education Committee TODAY, Monday, February 23, 2026, at 1 p.m. in room 606 of the Coverdell Legislative Office Building in Atlanta, Georgia.

"In the South, we believe in grace. We believe in redemption. We believe that no person is defined solely by their worst day," said Rep. Bell. "When we deny education, we deny transformation. But when we open the doors of education, we open the doors to purpose, dignity and hope. Today, before the Higher Education Committee, I will stand not only as a legislator, but as a servant of faith and community, urging support and awareness for House Bill 206. I'm calling on faith leaders, students, families, educators and all Georgians of goodwill to attend the hearing and stand in support of redemption, restoration and opportunity. You are invited to make your voice heard and testify in support of HB 206 because your voice matters."

HB 206 would prohibit HOPE scholarship or grant ineligibility based solely on conviction for offenses involving marijuana or a controlled substance.

"This bill is not about second chances. It is about first chances," added Rep. Bell. "For too many of our brothers and sisters, one mistake has become a lifelong barrier. The HOPE Scholarship has long stood as a promise to Georgia's young people-that if they work hard, doors will open. HB 206 ensures that promise extends to those who have paid their debt to society and seek to walk a new path. As a legislator guided by faith and service, this legislation reflects the moral obligation to lift people up rather than hold them down. It affirms the principle that every person is more than their past and deserves the opportunity to build a future."

The full text of HB 206 may be found here.

WHO: Rep. Eric Bell (D-Jonesboro)

WHAT: House Higher Education Committee Meeting

WHEN: Monday, February 23, 2026, at 1 p.m.

WHERE: Coverdell Legislative Office Building, Room 606, 18 Capitol Square S.W., Atlanta, GA 30334

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