Sen. Ken Yager

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the base salary for district attorneys general and district public defenders in Tennessee from $156,024 to $205,328, effective June 30, 2024. The law also establishes that their pay will automatically adjust on July 1 each year to match the average percentage raise given to state employees. By amending specific sections of the state code, the legislation ensures these legal officials receive compensation comparable to other state workers.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages on specific types of commercial passenger buses operating in Tennessee. To qualify, a bus must be at least 45 feet long, have an elevated passenger deck, seat between 16 and 36 people, include a separate galley area, and employ a non-driving attendant with a valid server permit. The law prohibits sales when the bus is stopped in localities that have not approved such sales or when traveling on routes shorter than 100 miles one-way. Additionally, the bill updates various state code sections to include these buses alongside existing categories like commercial passenger boats and restaurants.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Tennessee laws to change the deadline for health care facilities to submit certain reports from March 1 to January 15. It directly affects hospitals and other health care organizations that are required to file these documents with state regulators. The change applies across multiple sections of the state code governing health care administration. By moving the deadline earlier, the bill aims to ensure that regulatory data is available sooner for the upcoming year.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes new rules for how health insurance companies in Tennessee can recover overpayments made to healthcare providers. It limits the time frame for recouping funds, generally allowing insurers to only pursue overpayments within six months of the original payment unless fraud is involved. The law also requires insurers to provide detailed written notice at least 60 days before withholding payment and mandates that providers be allowed to appeal the decision before any money is withheld. Additionally, the bill protects providers from being penalized for reporting their own overpayments and sets specific penalties for insurance entities that fail to follow these procedures.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the civil service rules for the City of Rockwood by repealing an older 1997 law and replacing it with new provisions. It establishes a five-member Civil Service Board where members are selected through a mix of elections by city officials and city employees, with specific term limits preventing any member from serving more than two consecutive terms. The new law clarifies that civil service protections apply to full-time paid employees while excluding categories such as elected officials, part-time workers, and those in probationary periods. Additionally, the bill sets minimum standards for job descriptions and ensures that at least three board members must vote to approve any employee discipline or termination.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Joint Resolution urges the State of Tennessee to create a comprehensive statewide policy and program that provides paid support to family members caring for relatives with disabilities or older adults. The measure highlights the current lack of formal paid caregiving options in the state and the significant health and financial strain this places on over 930,000 informal caregivers. It directs the Long-Term Services and Supports division to develop this program in collaboration with community stakeholders and advocates by January 2025. The resolution aims to address workforce shortages and improve the well-being of caregivers while potentially delaying the need for more expensive institutional care.

Maddy summaryThis legislative bill is a joint resolution honoring Johnny O. Moore on the occasion of his retirement from his role as Federal Manager at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory Site Office. The resolution recognizes his forty-year career in federal service, highlighting his leadership in managing operations, ensuring safety, and driving scientific advancement in Tennessee. It serves as a formal commendation of his contributions to the state and nation rather than enacting new laws or policies. The document is intended to be presented to Mr. Moore as a gesture of appreciation for his distinguished public service.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution honors the memory of Dr. Alton Wayne Tipps, a respected educator and public servant who passed away. The bill formally acknowledges his contributions as a professor, musician, and community leader, while offering condolences to his family. It does not change any laws or policies but serves as a ceremonial tribute to his life and legacy.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a joint resolution that formally honors the memory of Julia "Judy" Pearl Wright, a longtime resident of Harriman and a dedicated public servant. The resolution acknowledges her thirty-year career with the Tennessee Department of Human Services and her extensive community involvement, including her work with the University of Tennessee sports teams and her active role in her church. It expresses the General Assembly's sympathy to her family and friends while officially recognizing her life of integrity and public service. Once signed into law, the document will be prepared for presentation to the Wright family as a commemorative tribute.