Rep. Esther Helton-Haynes

Maddy summaryHB 2259 (Tennessee) protects healthcare providers and organizations when discussing adverse patient incidents with patients or families. It states that good-faith communications about quality improvement committee (QIC) activities - such as explaining what happened after a medical error - are not considered waivers of legal confidentiality protections. These discussions, including offers of resolution, remain privileged, cannot be used in court, and do not imply liability. The bill directly affects healthcare providers, patients, and families in Tennessee by creating a safe space for open communication after adverse incidents without legal risk.

Maddy summaryHB 1649, known as "Matthew Davenport's Law," makes it illegal to possess, manufacture, deliver, or sell Kratom (including synthetic versions) in Tennessee, with penalties ranging from a Class A misdemeanor for possession to a Class B felony for selling to minors. The bill requires medical examiners to test decedents who died of suspected drug overdoses for Kratom, and mandates doctors to include Kratom testing in cases of suspected overdose or neonatal withdrawal symptoms in newborns. It also adds Kratom to the state’s definition of "drug" for regulatory purposes. The law takes effect on July 1, 2026, directly affecting individuals using Kratom, medical professionals, and law enforcement.

Maddy summaryThis legislative resolution honors Abby Lee Black, the 2026 valedictorian of East Ridge High School, for her academic achievements. The bill formally commends her outstanding grade point average and dedication to excellence during her high school career. It directs the state to prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to her as a gesture of recognition. The measure does not create new laws or funding but serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of her accomplishments.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution honors Yahir Ozny Miranda Gonzalez, the 2026 Salutatorian of East Ridge High School, for his academic achievements. The bill formally commends him for his high grade point average and participation in extracurricular activities during his high school career. It directs the General Assembly to present a copy of the resolution to him as a gesture of recognition for his distinguished performance in the classroom.

Maddy summaryThis bill honors Emma Grace Crane, the 2026 valedictorian of East Hamilton High School, for her outstanding academic achievements. It formally commends her exceptional performance in the classroom and her participation in extracurricular activities. The resolution directs that a copy of the document be prepared for presentation to her as a gesture of recognition. This measure does not create new laws or policies but serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of her success.

Maddy summaryThis House Joint Resolution honors Bailey Renee Keene, the 2026 Salutatorian of East Hamilton High School, for her academic achievements. The bill directs the Tennessee General Assembly to formally commend her performance and extend well wishes for her future. Additionally, it authorizes the preparation of a copy of the resolution for presentation to Ms. Keene upon her request.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution honors Susan Bedwell on the occasion of her retirement from the Hamilton County Trustee office. The measure recognizes her fifty years of service, which began in 1976 and concluded in April 2026, during which she worked in various divisions including delinquent tax, tax relief, and accounting. The resolution formally expresses appreciation for her contributions and wishes her well in her future endeavors.

Maddy summaryHB 1648 requires Tennessee's comptroller of the treasury to publish annual post-audit reports online. These reports summarize findings from audits of local governments and state agencies that manage public funds. The bill mandates that all such reports be made publicly accessible through the comptroller's website, as specified in amended sections of Tennessee law. This policy increases transparency in how public funds are managed and audited, directly affecting government entities subject to these audits.

Maddy summaryHJR 805 proposes a constitutional amendment to change Tennessee's residency requirement for judges. Currently, judges must have lived in the entire circuit or district for one year before election; the bill would require residency only in the specific county of the circuit or district where the judge is assigned. This change would directly affect judges running for positions in Tennessee's judicial districts by altering the geographic scope of their required residency. The amendment is procedural, focusing solely on modifying the constitutional language without adding new policies or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill extends the deadline for Tennessee municipalities to submit cost summaries for economic development projects using sales tax revenues. It changes the timeframe from 30 to 45 days after the end of the fiscal year. Municipalities must now provide these summaries with supporting documentation certified by their chief financial officer within the new 45-day window. The change directly affects local governments seeking state allocations for projects like retail or tourism facilities. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7, Chapter 40, Section 7-40-104(c)(1).