by Kandiss Edwards
January 24, 2026
House Bill 1013 referenced local restaurants, personalities and the way lemon pepper flavors were adopted nationwide.
A Georgia lawmaker has passed a law that would make lemon pepper the state’s official chicken wing flavor.
State Representative Eric Bell took a moment to propose expansions to the HOPE scholarship and denounce the ICE presence in the state to introduce what he called a “light-hearted” bill that “has real meaning.” The selection of flavors highlights a popular Georgia staple, especially in Atlanta.
Lemon pepper wings, by definition, are unbreaded chicken wings coated in lemon pepper seasoning. The delicious and popular dish was invented in Atlanta, Georgia and is considered a symbol of Atlanta cuisine.
House Bill 1013 was filed this session by Rep. Bell, Rep. Dexter Sharper, Rep. Kasey Carpenter, Rep. David Huddleston and Rep. Mekyah McQueen.
In an Instagram post, Bell said the Wings have become a cultural broker “across race, culture, class and community.” He pointed to local restaurants, personalities and the way lemon pepper flavors have been embraced across the country.
“From ‘Lemon Pepper Lou’ in Magic City to lyrics in Billboard hits by Gucci Mane, Ziggy2Playa and Rick Ross, lemon pepper wings have been central to many of the moments and people that have shaped this city and state. Just as the peach represents our agricultural roots, lemon pepper wings represent Georgia’s cultural flavor and global influence.”
According to HB 1013, lemon pepper is “distinctly associated with Georgia” and has evolved over time through local traditions such as “lemon pepper wet” and others that mix citrus, spices and heat. The legislation cites the dish’s popularity in Atlanta restaurants and communities as the basis for official recognition.
The proposal must pass committee review and a vote in both chambers of the Georgia General Assembly before becoming official state law.
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