Georgia might be the Peach State, but everyone knows the real flavor of the A comes out of a grease-stained cardboard box. State Representative Eric Bell is making it official with the introduction of House Bill 1013, a piece of legislation that seeks to designate lemon pepper as the formal chicken wing flavor of Georgia.
While some might see this as just a lighthearted move, Representative Bell insists that the seasoning carries heavy cultural weight.
“Lemon pepper wings have become a staple of southern cuisine in Atlanta and across Georgia,” Bell explained. “This is a lighthearted bill, but it carries real meaning. Lemon pepper wings are a fan-favorite that bring people together across race, culture, class and community.”
The bill has managed to do the impossible: find bipartisan common ground. Co-sponsored by a mix of Democrats and Republicans, including Dexter Sharper, Kasey Carpenter, David Huddleston, and Mekyah McQueen, the legislation proves that everyone, regardless of political affiliation, can agree on the flat vs. drumstick debate.
The legislation points to the deep ties between the flavor and the hip-hop community that has put Atlanta on the map. While Rick Ross has famously shouted out his love for the “lemon pepper,” the influence stretches across the Georgia music scene. Rappers like 21 Savage, Quavo, and Latto have all name-dropped the staple in their lyrics
If passed, Georgia would be the first state to give such a specific nod to its favorite finger food, officially claiming the crown for the citrus-and-spice combo that has kept the culture fed for decades.
So, the next time you’re debating “wet or dry,” just know that the state government might soon have a very specific preference.
