Rep. Fred Atchley

Maddy summaryHB 1541 would have authorized large companies meeting specific size criteria (3,000+ annual employees and 3 million+ annual visitors) to establish their own police forces on company-owned or controlled property. These company police officers would need POST certification, follow state law enforcement standards, and could enforce all applicable laws, make arrests, carry weapons, and conduct investigations - but only within the company's property limits. The bill required a defined command structure (including chief, captain, and patrol officers) and mandated cooperation with local law enforcement, while clarifying that company officers would have qualified immunity when enforcing state law but not for enforcing internal company rules. The bill was introduced in January 2026 but withdrawn on February 2, 2026, and never became law.

Maddy summaryThis is a memorial resolution honoring Lieutenant Gordon Gwathney of the Knoxville Police Department. It formally expresses the Tennessee House of Representatives' condolences to his family and commemorates his service as a police officer, U.S. Army veteran, and community mentor. The resolution highlights his 26-year career, including his role as Knoxville's first School Resource Officer and his 2013 Officer of the Year award. It does not create new laws or affect any policies.

Maddy summaryHB 1460 would require the Tennessee Department of Transportation to replace a highway sign on I-40 eastbound near mile marker 405.4 that currently references a stadium no longer located off Exit 407. The bill mandates changing the sign to read "The Island in Pigeon Forge," directing travelers to a current local attraction. This policy change updates highway signage to reflect present-day destinations rather than outdated references, amending Tennessee transportation code (Title 54) to implement the specific sign replacement. The bill directly affects drivers using I-40 in that area and the Department of Transportation as the agency responsible for executing the sign change.

Maddy summaryHB 391 modifies Tennessee's rules for nonprofits using professional fundraisers. It changes the filing deadline from "prior to starting" to "within 90 days after a campaign ends" for solicitation materials submitted to the Secretary of State. The bill also removes requirements for notifying the Secretary of State about campaign changes within 7 days or for materials "utilized in the campaign." This directly affects nonprofits and professional solicitors by shifting filing timing and simplifying some reporting obligations. The changes take effect upon becoming law.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HJR 506) is a ceremonial tribute honoring Tyler Glasper, a senior at Gatlinburg-Pittman High School, for being named TSSAA Class 2A Mr. Basketball for the 2024-2025 season. It recognizes his athletic achievements, including scoring over 3,000 career points, his academic record, and character as selected by a committee of sportswriters. The resolution formally congratulates Glasper and expresses the General Assembly's appreciation for his accomplishments. As a symbolic gesture with no policy impact or funding, it does not create new laws or affect any group beyond acknowledging Glasper's recognition.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (HJR 542), not a policy bill. It formally recognizes Pigeon Forge City Manager Earlene Teaster for her 44-year service as city manager (1980-2025) and her 63-year career with the city starting in 1961. The resolution highlights her role in developing tourism infrastructure (including Dollywood and the Fun Time Trolley), leading economic growth, and guiding the city through crises like wildfires and the pandemic. It does not create new laws or affect any policies - it solely honors her retirement with a formal commendation from Tennessee’s General Assembly.

Maddy summaryHJR 35 is a symbolic resolution recognizing Tennessee's emergency telecommunicators (911 dispatchers) as first responders. It formally acknowledges their critical role in public safety by stating they are the "first line of communications" during emergencies and a "lifeline" to responders. The resolution does not create new laws or benefits but urges state policy and procedures to reflect this recognition. It was signed into law by the Governor on April 15, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 584 extends the expiration date of Tennessee's annual limit on new nursing home beds from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2029. The bill maintains the current cap of 125 new nursing home beds per fiscal year that the Health Facilities Commission can approve through its certificate of need process. This change directly affects nursing home operators seeking to expand their facilities and the commission responsible for reviewing such requests. The bill does not alter the 125-bed limit but only extends the period during which it remains in effect.

Maddy summaryHB 136 amends Tennessee law (TCA Section 9-21-134) to require state and local governmental entities with finance transactions to disclose covenant violations (noncompliance with loan terms) and credit rating downgrades to the comptroller of the treasury within 10 business days. It also mandates disclosure of these events on the EMMA website if applicable. This directly affects public entities managing debt, such as cities, counties, and school districts that issue bonds. The bill adds specific definitions for "covenant violation" and "credit rating downgrade" to clarify reporting requirements. The law took effect after becoming Public Chapter 17 in March 2025.

Maddy summaryHJR 310 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Carl Dean, the late husband of country singer Dolly Parton, following his passing. The resolution formally expresses the Tennessee General Assembly's sympathy to Dolly Parton and Mr. Dean's family, commemorating his 60-year marriage to her and his role as her lifelong supporter. It specifically cites his influence on her songwriting (including "Jolene" and other songs) and his private life. As a memorial resolution, it has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws or constituents - it serves solely as a formal tribute from the state legislature.