State Representatives Introduce Resolution Urging Constitutional Governance, Rule of Law and Support for U.S. Service Members

ATLANTA - State Representative Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain), along with co-sponsors State Representatives Sandra Scott (D-Rex), Eric Bell (D-Jonesboro), Derrick Jackson (D-Tyrone) and Floyd Griffin (D-Milledgeville), recently introduced House Resolution 1702, which would urge for the protection of constitutional governance, the rule of law, the lawful exercise of conscientious objection and respect for the rights and responsibilities associated with military service.

"As a veteran and a member of a proud family of veterans, I deeply respect the men and women who have answered the call to serve," said Rep. Davis. "My experience as a critical care nurse caring for veterans has given me firsthand insight into the lasting impact of war, including the realities of PTSD and the tragedy of suicide that too many of our service members face. Supporting our troops means honoring the Constitution they swore to defend. House Resolution 1702 affirms that the rule of law, transparency and constitutional accountability must guide decisions that impact the lives of service members and the nation."

"This resolution reinforces that our democracy is strongest when we uphold constitutional principles and protect the rights of individuals, while continuing to support those who serve our country with honor," said Rep. Scott.

"Respect for the rule of law and constitutional governance is fundamental to maintaining trust in our institutions and ensuring fairness in decisions that affect national security," said Rep. Bell.

"Having recited the Oath of Office seventeen times over twenty-two years in the United States Navy and my service in the General Assembly, I know firsthand that this commitment has no expiration date," said Rep. Jackson. "House Resolution 1702 is a vital reaffirmation that our national security must always be anchored in the Constitution. By championing transparency, accountability and the protection of deeply held conscience, we don't just honor our service members-we strengthen the very democracy we swore to defend."

"This measure promotes transparency, accountability and respect for both our service members and the constitutional framework that guides our nation," said Rep. Griffin.

The representatives emphasize that HR 1702 affirms the rule of law as the foundation of American democracy, recognizes the constitutional oath taken by members of the Armed Forces, supports the lawful exercise of conscientious objection under federal law, emphasizes transparency and accountability in matters of war and national service and reaffirms respect and support for service members and veterans.

They further emphasize that the resolution is rooted in constitutional principles and is intended to strengthen public trust by ensuring that decisions involving war, military service and national security remain grounded in law, accountability and transparency.

The full text of HR 1702 may be found here.

*Editor's note: The representatives have provided a graphic included below.

Representative Viola Davis represents the citizens of District 87, which includes a portion of DeKalb County. She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Health, Insurance, Natural Resources & Environment and Urban Affairs committees.

Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes a portion of Clayton County. She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.

Representative Eric Bell represents the citizens of District 75, which includes a portion of Clayton County. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2023 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging and Small Business Development committees.

Representative Derrick Jackson represents the citizens of District 68, which includes portions of Fayette and Fulton counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2016 and re-elected in 2022. He currently serves on the Budget & Fiscal Affairs Oversight, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Regulated Industries and State Planning & Community Affairs committees.

Representative Floyd Griffin represents the citizens of District 149, which includes portions of Baldwin, Bibb and Jones counties. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2024 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Special Rules and State Planning & Community Affairs committees.

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