Sen. Richard Briggs

Maddy summarySJR 436 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Terry Carroll upon his retirement from the Tennessee State Employees Association (TSEA). It recognizes his 31-year career with TSEA, including roles as Deputy Executive Director, Government Affairs Director, and field representative, and his service to state employees. The resolution does not create new laws or affect policy; it is a symbolic gesture of appreciation. It was passed by both legislative chambers and signed by the Governor on May 1, 2025, as a formal tribute.

Maddy summarySB 940 expands Tennessee's "Good Samaritan" law to include alcohol-related overdoses, allowing people to seek medical help for alcohol poisoning without facing prosecution for alcohol violations. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 63 by updating definitions to replace "drug overdose" with "overdose" and "drug violation" with "drug or alcohol violation" throughout the law. This change directly affects individuals experiencing or witnessing alcohol overdoses, as well as those providing emergency assistance. The policy removes legal barriers to calling for help during alcohol-related medical emergencies, treating alcohol and drug overdoses equally under the immunity provision. The law takes effect July 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 1004 requires the state capitol commission to annually report to legislative leaders on donations and remaining funds for a monument until completion. This procedural bill, which became effective April 17, 2025, amends Tennessee Code Annotated to add this reporting requirement and does not affect abortion laws or other substantive policies.

Maddy summarySB 362, the "Safeguarding American Veteran Empowerment (SAVE) Act," regulates third-party advisors helping veterans navigate benefit claims. It prohibits charging fees for referrals, bans upfront or nonrefundable fees, and requires written agreements specifying that compensation depends solely on increased benefits (capped at five times the monthly increase). Advisors must disclose that free government services are available and provide clear warnings against guaranteed outcomes. The law also mandates strict data privacy protections, banning international data centers, requiring background checks for staff handling sensitive information, and prohibiting access to veterans' login credentials. These provisions directly affect veterans seeking benefits and third-party advisors, while exempting VA-accredited representatives.

Maddy summarySB 625 clarifies that Tennessee state agencies do not need to advertise for leasing space when their requirements are "special and unique," as approved by the state building commission. This exception applies directly to state agencies seeking to lease office space or facilities with uncommon needs. The bill amends state law to add this specific exception to the standard advertising requirement for state leases. The change became law in 2025 after passing the legislature.

Maddy summarySB 622 amends Tennessee law to require law enforcement agencies to submit three copies (triplicate) of accident reports involving alcohol to the Alcoholic Beverage Commission, instead of two copies (duplicate). This change affects law enforcement agencies that handle accident reports where alcohol was involved, specifically regarding records about the accident, involved persons, and those who provided or sold alcohol. The bill modifies Tennessee Code Annotated Section 57-4-201(b)(1) to specify the triplicate requirement for these submissions. It does not alter alcohol regulations or accident liability but streamlines the record submission process for the Commission.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (SJR 356), not a substantive bill. It formally commends Malik Abdullah, a Tennessee State University student and legislative intern, for being elected Speaker of the House during the 2025 Intern Mock Session. The resolution honors his service and leadership in the mock legislative session and his work as an intern for Representative Antonio Parkinson. It directly affects Malik Abdullah by publicly recognizing his role.

Maddy summarySJR 357 is a resolution commending Janeyah Anderson, a Lipscomb University student, for her election as Majority Leader of the 2025 Intern Mock Session. The resolution recognizes her leadership role in the mock legislative session and her service as a legislative intern for Representative Torrey Harris. Passed by both chambers and signed by the Governor, it formally honors her contributions without creating any legal obligations or policy changes. This is a ceremonial resolution, not a substantive bill.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SJR 363) honoring Specialist Ethan M. Ward and Specialist Brandon T. Moore of the Tennessee National Guard's 776th Maintenance Company. It recognizes their heroic actions during Hurricane Helene's 2024 response in Erwin, where they rescued six civilians from a flooded river after their vehicle overturned. The resolution formally congratulates them on being named the 2025 National Guardsmen of the Year and extends recognition for their bravery. As a commemorative resolution, it has no policy impact - it serves solely to honor their service.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally commends Abagael Hicks for serving as Lieutenant Governor of the 2025 Intern Mock Session, where legislative interns simulate state government roles. It recognizes her service as a student intern working with Senator Richard Briggs during the 114th Tennessee General Assembly session. The resolution has no binding policy effect - it is a ceremonial honor passed by both legislative chambers and signed by the Governor. It directly affects Abagael Hicks as the recipient of this symbolic recognition for her internship role.