Rep. Mary Littleton

Maddy summaryHB 1358 requires Tennessee's Department of Children's Services to study the need for a new juvenile detention facility in the western grand division of the state. The study must assess detention and treatment needs for juveniles in that region and report findings to the Senate Judiciary Committee and House Criminal Justice Committee by January 1, 2026. The bill does not fund or build a facility, only mandates this assessment. It directly affects the state agency conducting the study and juveniles in western Tennessee who would potentially use the facility if built. The legislation amends multiple Tennessee Code sections but only establishes a study process, not a new policy.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HJR 324) is a symbolic gesture of recognition, not a law. It formally commends Taiwan for its trade relations with the United States and Tennessee, highlighting Taiwan's role as Tennessee's seventh-largest import market and eighth-largest export market in 2023, and noting its technological partnership (like Quanta Computer's Nashville facility). The resolution expresses support for Taiwan's democratic values and economic cooperation, including the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade. It does not create new policy or affect any legal obligations, as it is a non-binding expression of goodwill addressed to Taiwan's representative office.

Maddy summaryHJR 481 is a commemorative resolution passed by the Tennessee General Assembly to honor Robert Earl "Bobby" Duke, a lifelong Dickson resident and community leader known for his dedication to public beautification, faith-based service, and family values. The resolution formally expresses the legislature's condolences to his family and recognizes his contributions, including maintaining public flower beds, serving as cemetery association president, and supporting local churches. It does not create new laws or policies but serves as a ceremonial tribute to his legacy.

Maddy summaryHB 1350 allows eligible disabled veterans in Tennessee to choose between a free distinguishing placard or a free license plate for parking, instead of requiring both. Veterans who qualify for a free license plate under existing law (TCA § 55-4-256) may now apply for a free placard to use instead. Veterans who already have a free license plate can also obtain a placard by paying the standard passenger vehicle fee ($20 as of current TCA § 55-4-111). This bill amends Tennessee Code §§ 55-21-106 and 55-4-256 to implement these options, effective July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 502 expands TennCare coverage to include diagnosis (including genetic testing) and treatment for Kleefstra syndrome, a rare genetic disorder affecting development and multiple body systems. It requires TennCare to provide this coverage in the same manner and extent as for autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), and other similar genetic disorders, when medically necessary. This applies to all enrolled individuals with Kleefstra syndrome and covers therapies, medications, assistive devices, and interventions aimed at improving quality of life. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, after being signed by the Governor in April 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1016 requires Tennessee's Department of Education to submit an annual early grades reading report by October 15 each year, covering the previous school year's reading data. The bill specifies that this report must be submitted to the Senate education committee and the House committee with jurisdiction over education. This changes the reporting deadline and clarifies which legislative committees receive the report, affecting how the state tracks early literacy progress.

Maddy summaryHJR 373 is a ceremonial resolution honoring the Pleasant View 6U All-Stars baseball team for winning the 2024 Dixie Youth Baseball World Series. It specifically recognizes their 7-1 tournament victory, 26-4 season record, and historic achievement as Tennessee champions. The resolution has no policy impact - it solely serves to commend the team and coaches for bringing honor to Tennessee through their athletic success. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or affect any regulations.

Maddy summaryHB 182, known as "The Ink of Hope Act," requires tattoo operators and artists in Tennessee to complete a one-hour training course on recognizing and reporting human trafficking signs before obtaining a permit or renewing a license. The training, provided at no cost by an approved nonprofit, covers identifying trafficking indicators, responding appropriately, referring clients to victim resources, and reporting to the Tennessee Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline. Existing license holders must complete this training by December 31, 2028, or risk license invalidation. The bill also protects licensed individuals from civil or criminal liability for good-faith actions related to human trafficking reporting.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors Melody Corlew Lewis for her 35 years of service as White Bluff town recorder, recognizing her community work on projects like sewer rehabilitation, park development, and housing grants. It has no policy impact or legal effect - it serves solely as a ceremonial tribute to her retirement. The resolution was formally adopted by Tennessee's General Assembly and signed by the Governor. It does not affect any laws, regulations, or individuals beyond this symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryHJR 226 is a joint resolution passed by the Tennessee legislature to honor Linda P. Hayes, the former mayor of White Bluff, for her 17 years of service (1999-2024) and community contributions. It specifically recognizes her role in helping establish the Jennie Woodworth Library, driving the development of White Bluff Town Hall, and supporting civic projects like the Fire Hall, Ambulance Station, and Bibb-White Bluff Civic Center. The resolution expresses the legislature’s appreciation for her dedication to public service and community growth in White Bluff.