Rep. Karen Camper

Maddy summaryHB 687 modifies Tennessee's voting rights laws by removing permanent disenfranchisement for individuals convicted of first-degree murder, aggravated rape, treason, or voter fraud. It replaces the requirement to pay all past court costs with a simpler standard: voters must be compliant with current child support orders (not fully paid arrears). The bill also establishes a three-year waiting period after sentence completion for those convicted of the listed crimes before they can regain voting rights, provided they meet other eligibility criteria. This directly affects Tennessee residents with these specific convictions who were previously barred from voting permanently or required to settle all financial obligations.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 18, 2026, as AARP Tennessee Day to recognize the contributions of the AARP organization to the state's older adult community. The resolution acknowledges AARP Tennessee's work in supporting individuals aged 50 and older through advocacy on issues like fraud prevention, caregiver support, and aging-in-place initiatives. It does not create new laws or change existing policies, but rather serves as a commemorative gesture to honor the organization's efforts in improving the lives of Tennessee residents over 50. The bill is a formal recognition passed by the state legislature and signed by the Governor.

Maddy summaryThis legislative bill is a joint resolution honoring the memory of Colby Jacob Palmer, a young man from Maryland who passed away. The resolution formally acknowledges his life, character, and contributions to his family and community, noting his achievements in sports and his dedication to his family values. It expresses the General Assembly's sympathy to his family and friends and authorizes the creation of a copy of the resolution for presentation to the family. This is a commemorative measure with no policy changes or regulatory impacts.

Maddy summaryHB 940 raises the minimum age for operating a personal watercraft (PWC) without direct adult supervision in Tennessee from 12 to 16 years old. It also requires all PWC operators to maintain proof of financial responsibility (similar to motor vehicle insurance requirements) for the waters of Tennessee. The bill directly affects young people aged 12-15 who currently operate PWCs unsupervised and all PWC operators who must now provide insurance documentation. The age change takes effect immediately upon enactment, while the financial responsibility requirement becomes effective July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 2049 establishes the State Uterine Fibroids Commission, composed of 11 members including healthcare professionals, hospital representatives, patient advocates (with uterine fibroids or related conditions), and two legislative appointees. The commission will evaluate existing efforts, advise the governor and health department on policies, research state regulations related to uterine fibroids and related conditions, and hold annual public hearings. It must submit annual reports to health committees by December 31 each year. The commission directly affects women diagnosed with uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or polycystic ovary syndrome by creating a formal advisory body focused on their health needs.

Maddy summaryHB 1081 shortens the waiting period for clearing certain criminal records in Tennessee. It reduces the required time from 5 years to 3 years for misdemeanors or Class E felonies, and from 10 years to 6 years for Class D felonies after completing a sentence. This change directly affects individuals convicted of these specific offenses who seek to have their records expunged. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Sections 40-32-101(g)(2)(B) and (k)(1)(C) and takes effect July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 689 creates an automatic expungement program for eligible individuals in Tennessee counties with 366,200+ residents (per 2020 census). It allows court clerks in those counties to expunge qualifying criminal records without requiring the person to file a petition, obtain TBI certification, or get a court order. This applies to individuals who qualify for free expungement under specific legal categories (e.g., dismissed cases or certain convictions). The bill streamlines the process by having court clerks initiate expungements directly, with confidential record-keeping and no liability for clerks.

Maddy summaryHB 1082 prohibits the possession, manufacture, transport, repair, or sale of "switch or auto sear devices" designed to convert a firearm to fire multiple shots per single trigger pull without reloading. It directly affects firearm owners, dealers, and anyone handling such devices, with exceptions for certain legal uses. The bill amends Tennessee law to classify violations as a Class E felony, effective July 1, 2025. It targets specific firearm modification devices, not general gun ownership or sales.

Maddy summaryThis Tennessee House resolution honors The Links, Incorporated, an international nonprofit organization of over 17,000 professional women of color dedicated to community service and equality. The bill recognizes the organization's history of volunteer work, its chapters across multiple states and countries, and its significant contributions to various social and educational causes. It specifically acknowledges the upcoming gathering of ten Tennessee chapters on Capitol Hill in March 2026, where members will meet with legislators to discuss issues affecting their communities. The resolution formally commends the members for their public service and commitment to advancing opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, or socioeconomic background.

Maddy summaryHJR 1029 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Deborah Manning Thomas, a Memphis-born gospel musician and Tennessee resident, for her contributions to music and community service. It recognizes her decades-long career as a gospel artist, including performances at historic events like the 1972 Wattstax concert, roles in films like *The Firm*, and her work mentoring youth through church ministries. The resolution has no policy impact - it is purely symbolic, expressing the General Assembly’s commendation without creating new laws or affecting any individuals or programs. It was unanimously adopted by the Tennessee House of Representatives in March 2026.