HJR 944 is a Tennessee legislative resolution recognizing the nuclear energy industry's historical and economic contributions to the state. It highlights key milestones like the Manhattan Project facilities, Oak Ridge National Laboratory's research, and the Y-12 National Security Complex, while citing $12 billion in nuclear investments and 4,000 new jobs spurred by cleanup efforts. The resolution expresses the General Assembly's support for the industry and thanks employees for their service. As a commemorative resolution, it has no binding legal effect but formally acknowledges the sector's role in Tennessee's economy and national security.
HJR 936 is a symbolic resolution passed by the Tennessee House of Representatives to commemorate Read Across America Week (March 2-6, 2026) in the state. It expresses legislative support for promoting literacy, childhood reading, and the National Education Association’s annual event that celebrates books and storytelling. The resolution has no binding legal effect - it does not create new laws, allocate funding, or impose requirements on schools or individuals. It serves solely as a formal acknowledgment of the value of reading in education and community engagement.
SB 1650 allows Masonic lodges in Tennessee to use sponsored corporations or limited liability companies (LLCs) to acquire, own, and lease property for lodge purposes. Specifically, it expands existing law to let these sponsored entities purchase or receive property by gift (like buildings, land, or equipment) for lodges, temples, or burial sites, and to lease property back to the lodges or others. The bill directly affects Masonic lodges and their legally formed sponsored business entities. It clarifies that property deeds must vest ownership in either the lodge or its sponsored entity, without impacting prior property transfers. This is a procedural update to Tennessee property law for fraternal organizations.
HB 1501 would allow Tennessee municipalities to require real estate investment trusts (REITs) owning 10 or more rental units within city limits to register with local building code enforcement agencies. REITs would need to provide their contact information and the full addresses of all properties they manage, with updates required within 30 days of any changes. Municipalities could impose a $50 weekly fine for non-compliance, but must provide a hearing opportunity before levying penalties. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026, and does not authorize fees for REITs to file required information.
This is a commemorative resolution (HR 157) honoring James Bennett for his 50 years of service in Warren County, Tennessee public education. It recognizes his career as a teacher, coach, principal, and later as District 1 School Commissioner, emphasizing his dedication to students and community. The resolution formally expresses the Tennessee House of Representatives' appreciation for his "unwavering belief in the potential of every child" and extends "heartfelt wishes for a happy and fulfilling retirement." As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or affect policies.
House Resolution 156 is a non-binding resolution passed unanimously by the Tennessee House of Representatives to recognize and commend LuLu's Tea Room in Powell for its 20th anniversary. The resolution specifically honors the restaurant's owner, Deana "LuLu" Hurd, and acknowledges the business's longstanding role as a community gathering place known for its family-friendly service, locally sourced menu, and contributions to Powell's character. It does not create any legal obligations or policy changes, as is typical for commemorative resolutions.
This Senate Resolution (SR 296) is a ceremonial tribute honoring Diane Jordan, a former Knox County Commissioner. It recognizes her as the first Black woman to serve on the Knox County Commission (1994-2007), her focus on addressing police brutality and economic development, and her continued community service after her political career. The resolution has no policy impact - it simply commemorates her legacy through formal recognition by the Tennessee Senate. It was passed unanimously and signed by the Senate Speaker on February 19, 2026.
Senate Resolution 289 is a unanimous resolution by the Tennessee Senate to commend Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for its Tennessee Days at the Capitol event and to recognize the sorority's 113-year history of community service and social action in the Southern Region. The resolution honors the organization's founding in 1913, its Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, and its centennial celebration of social action efforts. It serves as a formal acknowledgment of the sorority's contributions to Tennessee communities through initiatives in education, health, and civic engagement.
Senate Resolution 294 designates February 21, 2026, as "Robert Gardenhire Day" to honor his 41-year ministry at Schrader Lane Church of Christ, his 41-year career at Bridgestone/Firestone (including roles as Director of Logistics), and his civic service on boards like the Tennessee Technological University College of Business Foundation and United Way of Greater Nashville. The resolution recognizes his work in church leadership, missionary efforts, and community advocacy, including authoring a book on project funding. It was introduced and passed by the Tennessee Senate in February 2026.
Senate Resolution 290 honors the opening of Forward Creative Commons at Bordeaux, a new community space in North Nashville designed to bring together older adults, youth, artists, and families through arts, wellness, and creative programming. It recognizes the partnership between FiftyForward Bordeaux (which serves adults 50+) and Creative Girls Rock (which empowers girls and women), and commends their leaders, Sallie Hussey and Charmin Bates, for fostering intergenerational collaboration. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no policy impact but formally celebrates this community initiative and its founders. The resolution passed unanimously in the Tennessee Senate on February 12, 2026.
SJR 571 is a non-binding resolution urging the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) to create monarch butterfly habitat along highway rights-of-way. It specifically requests TDOT dedicate sections of road corridors for milkweed and native wildflowers - critical for monarch eggs and caterpillars - and stop mowing existing habitat areas. The resolution highlights that habitat loss from development and frequent mowing has endangered monarchs, while repurposing highway areas could aid their survival and potentially reduce mowing costs. Currently pending before the Senate Transportation Committee (as of February 2026), it does not create new law but formally requests TDOT action.
This is a symbolic resolution honoring Miley Kirk of Clay County for receiving Tennessee's Governor's Volunteer Stars Award. It recognizes her community service as an exemplary volunteer, highlighting that Tennessee volunteers contribute over 134 million hours annually and support $4 billion in economic value. The resolution does not create new laws or policies - its sole purpose is to formally congratulate Kirk through a legislative expression of appreciation. It was unanimously adopted by the Tennessee House of Representatives.
