Rep. Johnny Shaw

Maddy summaryHB 1806 requires Tennessee's Department of Human Services to apply for federal summer food assistance funds by January 1, 2027, to provide nutrition benefits via electronic cards (EBT) during summer months for eligible children. This bill directly affects low-income children in Tennessee who qualify for the program, ensuring continued access to food when school is not in session. The key provision mandates the state to seek funding through the federal summer EBT program (authorized under 42 U.S.C. § 1762) to replace school meal support during summer breaks. The bill amends Tennessee law (Titles 49 and 71) to enforce this application deadline, aiming to maintain consistent food assistance year-round.

Maddy summaryHB 2635 amends the Town of Stanton's charter (Chapter 142 of the Private Acts of 1990) by revising its general powers. The bill replaces Section 5 with updated provisions allowing the town to tax, borrow money, issue bonds (including those backed by public utility income), and grant exclusive franchises for public utilities for up to 25 years. These changes directly affect Stanton's local government, clarifying how it can finance projects, manage utilities, and regulate service providers within its corporate limits. The bill does not alter how the town judge operates, as the title's mention of the town judge is not detailed in the provided text.

Maddy summaryHB 1714 requires Tennessee's Department of Safety to create a blue envelope for drivers with developmental or intellectual disabilities. The envelope will hold essential documents like a driver's license, vehicle registration, and contact card, and must include communication guidelines on the outside to help law enforcement officers interact appropriately. Starting January 1, 2027, these envelopes will be available at all driver services centers and county clerk's offices statewide. The bill amends Tennessee Code (Titles 38, 52, and 55) to implement this change, directly affecting drivers with these disabilities and officers responding to traffic stops.

Maddy summaryHB 1713 would allow tow trucks (recovery vehicles) to display a single blue light (steady or flashing) on the rear of the vehicle, but not the front, when stopped and assisting another vehicle. This applies specifically during stationary operations like vehicle recovery or roadside assistance. The bill amends Tennessee's traffic code to permit this lighting, aiming to improve visibility for tow trucks and other drivers. It does not require tow trucks to use the light, only authorizes it under these defined conditions.

Maddy summaryThis resolution proposes amending Tennessee's constitution to allow 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(19) charitable organizations (like community nonprofits and veterans' groups) to conduct bingo games for community purposes. It would explicitly permit these groups to host bingo events under state law, which currently restricts such activities. Future state legislation would establish uniform statewide rules for these permitted bingo operations. The amendment requires voter approval before taking effect.

Maddy summaryHB 1996 modifies Tennessee's cannabis possession laws by creating a medical exception and establishing tiered penalties for non-medical use. It permits possession only if cannabis was obtained directly from a licensed physician for a qualifying medical condition (as defined in TCA §68-7-101). For non-medical possession, it sets fines up to $100 for 1 ounce or less (with no jail time), and increases penalties for larger amounts or repeat offenses - up to $2,500 fines and 6 months in jail for third offenses of more than 1 ounce. The bill directly affects Tennessee residents who possess cannabis, distinguishing between medical use and non-compliant possession.

Maddy summaryHB 1411 changes Hardeman County's school budget deadline, requiring the Hardeman County School Board to submit its annual budget by the first Monday in May instead of the first Monday in April. The bill amends a 1937 law to specify this new timeline for submitting itemized budget estimates needed for the upcoming school year. It also requires Hardeman County's legislative body to approve the bill with a two-thirds vote before it takes effect. This change directly affects only Hardeman County's school board and budget process.

Maddy summaryHB 1434 changes Hardeman County's budgeting process by raising the assumed property tax collection rate from 85% to 92% when calculating the general tax rate for the county's general fund. This adjustment directly affects Hardeman County's budget planning for the next fiscal year, as it uses a higher estimated revenue rate to cover expenditures. The bill requires approval by a two-thirds vote of the county's legislative body before taking effect, and it becomes law once approved.

Maddy summaryHB 1274 requires the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) to annually report to legislative leaders on DUI arrests where no alcohol or intoxicants were detected in the person's blood or breath. The TBI must submit this report each January 1, starting in 2026, detailing the most recent year's data and including the arresting law enforcement agency. This requirement is effective until July 1, 2029. The bill provides lawmakers with specific data on these cases but does not change existing DUI laws or penalties.

Maddy summaryHJR 318 is a symbolic resolution (not a law) sponsored by Representative Shaw. It urges the Governor and State Capitol Commission to name a new entrance to the Motlow Tunnel "Heritage Gateway Entrance" in honor of the workers who built Tennessee's State Capitol, specifically recognizing 15 enslaved African Americans (with 12 named: Lewis, Daniel, Robert, Nelson, John, Parker, Dang, Bill, John G., John, Andrew, and Jim) and other laborers like prisoners and skilled masons. The resolution also requests a monument or plaque at the entrance listing all known worker names. This resolution was passed by both legislative chambers and signed by the Governor on May 2, 2025, but it does not create new legal requirements or funding.