Rep. Justin Lafferty

Maddy summaryHB 1566 extends the authority of Tennessee's Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners until June 30, 2031, preventing its automatic expiration. The bill amends two sections of Tennessee law (TCA Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 63, Chapter 12) to remove a reference to the board's sunset date and clarify its ongoing existence. This procedural change directly affects the board itself, ensuring it continues to oversee veterinary licensing and practice standards without new regulations. It does not alter veterinary practice rules or fees but maintains the current regulatory structure. The bill is currently pending in committee review for potential passage.

Maddy summaryHB 1593 extends the expiration date of Tennessee's professional art therapist advisory committee (which advises the Board of Examiners in Psychology) from its original sunset date to June 30, 2031. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Sections 4-29-247 and 4-29-252 to update the committee's sunset provision. This change ensures the committee continues operating to provide guidance on art therapy licensing standards without interruption. The bill directly affects the advisory committee and the psychology board they serve, preventing the committee from automatically dissolving.

Maddy summaryHB 1599 extends the expiration date of Tennessee's State Board of Accountancy from its original sunset date to June 30, 2030. This procedural bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Sections 4-29-247 and 4-29-251 to clarify the board's continued existence and reference its creation under Title 62, Chapter 1. The bill directly affects the State Board of Accountancy (which oversees licensed accountants in Tennessee) and the professionals regulated by the board. It makes no changes to the board's duties or regulations, only prevents its automatic termination.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 156 is a non-binding resolution passed unanimously by the Tennessee House of Representatives to recognize and commend LuLu's Tea Room in Powell for its 20th anniversary. The resolution specifically honors the restaurant's owner, Deana "LuLu" Hurd, and acknowledges the business's longstanding role as a community gathering place known for its family-friendly service, locally sourced menu, and contributions to Powell's character. It does not create any legal obligations or policy changes, as is typical for commemorative resolutions.

Maddy summaryHB 2581 would prevent Tennessee's public universities (including the University of Tennessee system) from granting new faculty tenure after July 1, 2026, while allowing current tenure holders to retain their status. It amends state law to require university governing boards to adopt policies that prohibit new tenure awards starting that date. The bill directly affects all faculty at Tennessee's public institutions by changing how permanent faculty positions are granted. This policy change takes effect July 1, 2026, for all new appointments.

Maddy summaryHB 2580 shortens the deadline for licensed polygraph examiners and companies in Tennessee to notify regulators about a business address change, reducing it from 30 to 21 days. This bill directly affects licensed polygraph professionals and businesses operating under Tennessee's professions and occupations laws. The key provision amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 62, Section 62-27-114, to require written notice within 21 days of any address change. The bill takes effect upon becoming law, streamlining administrative compliance for these licensed entities.

Maddy summaryHB 2181 requires nonprofit organizations in Tennessee that receive state or federal grants to publicly post the salaries of all their employees on their website every six months. This applies specifically to tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in Tennessee. The bill mandates that salaries - defined as fixed, regular payments typically paid monthly or biweekly - be compiled, maintained, and made publicly accessible online. Nonprofits failing to comply could face lawsuits, with courts ordering corrective action and requiring the losing party to pay the winner’s legal fees. The law takes effect on July 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryHB 1654 is a procedural bill requiring the Tennessee governor to forward proposed legislation to government operations committee chairs in both the Senate and House whenever state department functions are transferred. This legislation must update the Tennessee Code to reflect changes made through executive order. The bill directly affects the governor’s office and legislative committees by establishing a formal process for documenting administrative shifts between state agencies. It does not change department responsibilities but ensures legal records are updated after executive actions transfer functions. The bill was introduced on January 14, 2026, and is pending committee review.

Maddy summaryHB 1587 extends the authorization for Tennessee's Local Government Planning Advisory Committee until June 30, 2027, by amending specific sections of state code (TCA Title 4, Chapters 29 and 3, Part 7). The bill adds a reference to the committee in TCA § 4-29-248(a), confirming its creation under § 4-3-727. This is a procedural extension that prevents the committee's authorization from expiring, allowing it to continue its existing role in advising local governments on planning matters. The committee itself is not directly affected by the bill; the change only prolongs its official existence.

Maddy summaryHB 1602 extends the State Energy Policy Council's operation until June 30, 2027, preventing its automatic expiration. The bill amends Tennessee Code Sections 4-29-247 and 4-29-248 to update the council's sunset date and clarify its statutory reference. This procedural change directly affects the State Energy Policy Council by ensuring its continued existence and operations beyond the original expiration date. The bill does not alter the council's duties or policy recommendations, only its operational timeline.