Sen. Kerry Roberts

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 246) formally commends Alejandro Gachupin, the 2025 Valedictorian of East Robertson High School, for his academic achievements. It does not create new laws or policies - it is solely a ceremonial honor from the Tennessee Senate recognizing his high school accomplishments, including his GPA and extracurricular involvement. The resolution expresses the Senate's admiration for his dedication and extends well-wishes for his future. As a procedural memorial, it has no binding effect or direct impact beyond symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 250), not a policy bill. It formally honors Alyssa Brielle Mitchell as the 2025 Salutatorian of Jo Byrns High School for her academic achievements. The resolution recognizes her high GPA, extracurricular involvement, and future potential through a formal commendation by the Tennessee Senate. It has no policy impact, legal effect, or direct impact on any individuals or groups beyond the ceremonial recognition of this specific student.

Maddy summarySJR 347 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing Chief Joe Williams of the White House Community Volunteer Fire Department for his 46 years of service, beginning at age 16. The resolution formally commends him for his dedication, leadership, and community impact, including inspiring his sons to pursue firefighting. It has no policy or legal effect - it is solely an expression of gratitude from the Tennessee General Assembly. The resolution was signed by both legislative chambers and the Governor on April 16, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 819 creates a civil lawsuit for individuals whose right to bear arms under the Tennessee or U.S. Constitution is infringed by a government entity (like a city, police department, or official). It allows affected people to seek actual damages, a fixed $250 per day for each violation, punitive damages, and attorney fees if the government denies or restricts gun rights. The bill specifically excludes cases where government enforces valid laws, and it does not prevent people from using other existing legal remedies. This law directly affects government actions related to firearm regulations, not private citizens or businesses.

Maddy summarySB 1054 creates a temporary "foreign training license" for internationally trained physicians in Tennessee who meet specific criteria. To qualify, applicants must hold an AMA-approved medical degree (or board-approved equivalent), complete 3 years of postgraduate training in an approved country (or have 7 years of practice), maintain good standing in their home country's licensing system, and secure employment with a Tennessee healthcare provider. The license is tied to that specific employer and requires 2 years of active practice in Tennessee before transitioning to a full license. This bill directly affects internationally licensed doctors seeking to practice in Tennessee without U.S. medical training.

Maddy summarySB 522 requires Tennessee's TennCare program to cover diagnosis (including genetic testing) and treatment for Kleefstra syndrome - a rare genetic disorder causing developmental delays, intellectual disability, and physical symptoms - on the same terms as coverage for autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, and similar genetic conditions. This mandate applies directly to TennCare enrollees diagnosed with Kleefstra syndrome, ensuring access to therapies, medications, and interventions aimed at improving quality of life. The bill updates TennCare coverage rules to include this condition under existing standards for comparable genetic disorders. It takes effect July 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 521 creates a new "law enforcement investigatory privilege" in Tennessee, protecting certain information gathered during active criminal investigations. It prohibits civil or criminal court subpoenas from demanding details covered by this privilege (such as evidence or witness statements) while an investigation is ongoing. The privilege applies until the case closes through dismissal, acquittal, or expiration of appeal deadlines. This directly affects law enforcement agencies (who gain protection for their investigative materials) and individuals or entities seeking such information through court subpoenas. The bill does not override constitutional rights or change standard subpoena procedures for law enforcement.

Maddy summarySB 278 designates specific river segments in Tennessee as Class II pastoral river areas, adding them to the state's scenic river preservation system. It directly affects the Duck River segment within Hickman County, plus Beaverdam Creek, Lick Creek, Piney River, and Swan Creek segments in Hickman, Williamson, and Dickson counties. The bill amends existing law to formally include these waterways under Class II protection, which limits development and commercial activities to preserve natural character. This change ensures these designated river areas receive consistent preservation standards under Tennessee’s scenic river framework. The bill does not create new regulations but expands the current system to cover these additional segments.

Maddy summarySJR 170 is a ceremonial memorial resolution honoring Elder James Richard Hilliard, a Springfield resident who passed away. It commemorates his 30+ year career at Delight Products, his service as a pastor at Calvary Temple (founded in 1998), and his roles in community organizations like City of Faith International. The resolution expresses the Tennessee General Assembly's condolences to his family and recognizes his legacy of "integrity, compassion, and dedication." As a memorial resolution, it has no policy impact or direct effect on any laws or individuals - it solely serves to formally honor his life and contributions.

Maddy summarySB 277 changes the exam requirements for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Tennessee by replacing the subject "business law and taxation" with "taxation and regulation" in the certification process. This directly affects individuals seeking CPA certification who must pass these examinations. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 62, Chapter 1, Section 106(d), to update the specified exam subjects. The change is limited to the examination content and does not alter other CPA certification requirements or create new regulations. The bill is currently pending before the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee.