As we hit the halfway mark of the 2026 Georgia legislative session, some intriguing food-related bills are making their way through the state house and senate. While this may not seem like the most exciting topic compared to the latest restaurant openings or social media food trends, these bills could significantly impact our local food and beverage industries.
Over the years, Georgia lawmakers have pushed several alcohol distribution bills that affect how breweries and distilleries operate. For example, in 2026, breweries are still advocating for changes to the state’s three-tier distribution laws, which limit direct sales to customers.
One of the most well-known pieces of legislation was the “brunch bill,” passed in 2018. It allows certain restaurants to serve mimosas starting at 11 a.m. on Sundays. More recently, in 2021, a law was introduced to allow takeout cocktails as a way to help restaurants recover from revenue losses during the pandemic.
This year’s legislative session has brought attention to three key bills, one of which focuses on transparency related to shrimp sourcing in Georgia restaurants. The “shrimp transparency bill,” or House Bill 117, will require restaurants to specify if their shrimp is imported. This move aims to support local shrimpers battling unfair market competition.
**What You Need to Know About HB 117**
If signed into law, HB 117 will mandate that menus clearly state “Foreign Imported” next to any dish containing shrimp sourced from outside the U.S. Visible signage will also be required. This is significant as many restaurants currently source shrimp from abroad rather than local fisheries. Recent tests have shown that some Georgia restaurants falsely claim to serve local shrimp. This bill seeks to address such issues.
Local shrimpers have mixed feelings about the bill. One shrimper agreed with the need for transparency but doubted it would provide immediate support for local fishermen. Conversely, some seafood market owners are hopeful that the new law will prevent misleading advertising by restaurants.
Assuming Governor Brian Kemp signs the bill, Georgia will join several other states, like Alabama and Louisiana, that already have similar transparency laws in place. This might improve market conditions for local shrimpers and increase consumer awareness.
**A Broader Context**
The signal of increased scrutiny on seafood sourcing highlights a broader trend in food transparency. According to recent surveys, consumers are increasingly seeking information on the origins of their food. A survey by the Food Marketing Institute found that more than 70% of shoppers want to know where their food comes from. This enhances the need for transparency regulations like HB 117, allowing consumers to make informed choices while supporting local economies.
**Other Notable Bills**
In addition to HB 117, two other bills are gaining traction. HB 1229 aims to align museum alcohol sales with those of restaurants, allowing them to sell alcohol on Sundays. This bill has bipartisan support and could take effect immediately once signed.
Another lighthearted but culturally significant bill, HB 1013, proposes that lemon pepper become the official chicken wing flavor of Georgia. This flavor is a staple in local cuisine and reflects the cultural heritage of the state.
As these bills progress, it’s clear that Georgia’s food landscape is evolving. Addressing sourcing transparency, supporting local businesses, and celebrating culinary traditions can help shape a more robust food culture in the state.
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