Rep. Elaine Davis

Maddy summaryHB 416 (Tennessee) would require all school board members in local education agencies to be elected at the same election starting in 2028, replacing the current system of staggered elections. This change would apply to every public school district in Tennessee, directly affecting school board members and voters in those districts. The bill also specifies that members elected in the first election occurring on or after January 1, 2026, would serve two-year terms to align their terms with the new schedule. The proposal aims to standardize election timing across all school boards, though it failed in committee in March 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 428 requires TennCare to cover continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for enrolled individuals with specific diabetes conditions. It directly affects TennCare members diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, gestational diabetes, or Type 2 diabetes with documented complications like frequent low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), high A1C levels (≥7%), or hospitalizations related to diabetes. The bill mandates coverage only when a specialist (endocrinologist or diabetes-experienced provider) confirms eligibility based on medical criteria. The law takes effect January 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryHB 414 allows existing religious buildings (places of worship) in Tennessee to host educational programs - like classes or youth activities - without needing to reclassify the building's occupancy type, provided they meet specific fire safety upgrades. Key requirements include installing interconnected smoke detectors with battery backup, audible/visual alarms for hearing-impaired individuals, clearly marked exits, and fire extinguishers on each floor. Buildings meeting these standards are exempt from mandatory automatic fire sprinkler systems. The bill directly affects religious organizations offering educational services and local fire marshals enforcing safety compliance, effective July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) amendment, adjusts the funding threshold for school nurses within Tennessee public schools. Specifically, it lowers the student population limit from 3,000 to 750 students, meaning districts with fewer than 750 students now qualify for TISA funds to support school health services. By amending state law, the legislation directly impacts how smaller school districts allocate resources for nursing staff and related health programs. The change ensures that smaller schools receive financial support for these essential services under the existing TISA framework.

Maddy summaryThis House Joint Resolution honors Emelia Bankston, the 2024 valedictorian of West High School, for her outstanding academic performance and leadership. The measure formally commends her exceptional grade point average and participation in extracurricular activities, recognizing her as a distinguished student within the state. It directs the state clerk to prepare a copy of the resolution for presentation to Ms. Bankston, omitting any legislative signatures. This action serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of her achievement rather than establishing new laws or policies.