HJR 639 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Master Sergeant Nicole Hanson, an aerospace science instructor for the Lebanon High School Air Force Junior ROTC program in Tennessee. It recognizes her 22-year Air Force service, her role in revitalizing the JROTC program (including winning the Air Force Junior ROTC Outstanding Instructor Award in her first year), and her personal sacrifices like a lengthy commute to continue teaching. The resolution formally expresses the legislature's appreciation for her dedication to students and community service. As a symbolic gesture with no policy or legal impact, it does not create new requirements or affect any laws. The resolution was signed into law by the Governor on April 22, 2025.
HJR 519 is a joint resolution honoring Officer Robert A. Jackson, Jr., the last officer of the Tennessee Capitol Police, for his over 30 years of service. Signed by the Governor on April 15, 2025, the resolution recognizes his military career in the U.S. Air Force and his distinguished law enforcement work, expressing gratitude for his dedication to public safety in Tennessee. It does not create new laws or policies but formally acknowledges his retirement through a ceremonial expression of appreciation.
This resolution honors the memory of Alfred Bertram Cate, Jr., a Tennessee educator, coach, and Vietnam War veteran who taught history and coached at Memphis Central High School for 36 years. It commemorates his military service (including a Bronze Star), his coaching achievements (152 student-athletes receiving college scholarships), and his community contributions. The resolution does not create new laws or policies - it is a formal tribute to his legacy, expressing condolences to his family and recognizing his impact on students and the community. As a memorial resolution, it has no binding effect on government operations or citizens.
SB 1017 allows eligible disabled veterans in Tennessee to use a free parking placard instead of a special license plate for parking purposes. Veterans who qualify for a free license plate under existing law (TCA § 55-4-256) may apply for a free placard, while those already issued a free license plate can obtain a placard by paying the standard $20 fee. The placard must be displayed as directed and can be used in place of the license plate when parking. This policy change, effective July 1, 2026, directly affects disabled veterans who currently receive free license plates or qualify for them.
SB 780 allows honorably discharged Tennessee National Guard members to receive a "veteran" designation on their driver's licenses. It amends Tennessee law to explicitly include National Guard veterans in the existing veteran designation program. To qualify, applicants must provide documentation such as a DD-256 discharge certificate or NGB Form 22 showing an honorable discharge. This change directly affects National Guard members who have completed service with an honorable discharge. The bill specifies the required documents but does not alter other license requirements.
This House Joint Resolution (HJR 332) is a commemorative resolution honoring retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Phyllis Ann Fitzgerald for her 21-year military service and subsequent civilian work supporting veterans. It specifically recognizes her roles as an intelligence analyst (including during Desert Shield/Desert Storm), her leadership as executive director of the Society of the First Infantry Division, and her community service in Kansas. The resolution formally commends her contributions during Women's History Month, highlighting her as a model of dedication and service. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or affect any policies.
SJR 150 is a ceremonial resolution honoring 11 specific members of Tennessee's 134th Air Refueling Wing (Tennessee Air National Guard) for receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross. It recognizes their actions during a combat air refueling mission supporting Operation Inherent Resolve on April 13-14, 2024, when they provided critical refueling under attack during an adversary offensive against Israel. The resolution formally commends their "exceptional aviation skills" and "devotion to duty" during this high-risk operation. As a memorial resolution, it has no policy impact and solely serves to publicly recognize the Airmen's service.
SJR 147 is a commemorative resolution honoring Troop B, 1st Squadron, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment (Tennessee Army National Guard) for winning first place in the 2024 Sullivan Cup Competition. The resolution specifically commends the four soldiers - Staff Sergeant David Riddick, Sergeant Joshua Owen, Specialist Noah Eddings, and Specialist Seth Carter - who led their team to victory as the only National Guard unit in the competition. They defeated ten teams, including six active-duty Army units and four allied teams, in the U.S. Army's annual M1 Abrams tank crew competition. The resolution was passed by the Tennessee General Assembly and signed by the Governor on March 12, 2025.