HJR 641 is a resolution passed by the Tennessee General Assembly to formally congratulate Cadet Kenneth Darden, an Army ROTC student at Austin Peay State University (APSU), on winning the CSM Darol Walker Award. The resolution recognizes his military service (including 11 years of active duty, three deployments to Iraq, and multiple medals), academic excellence (3.7 GPA in leadership science), and leadership roles (captain of APSU's Ranger Challenge team, Homecoming King). As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or policies but publicly honors his achievements as a senior ROTC cadet who excels academically, militarily, and in extracurricular activities.
SB 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.
HJR 561 is a Tennessee House Joint Resolution honoring the memory of Carl Elzia Levi, a Chattanooga public servant who dedicated over 50 years to city, county, and military service. It commemorates his roles as Chattanooga city treasurer, Hamilton County trustee, and U.S. Army/Army National Guard veteran (retiring as a brigadier general), and notes his 2019 armory naming in his honor. The resolution expresses the General Assembly's condolences to his family and reflects on his legacy of integrity and public service. As a memorial resolution, it has no policy impact and serves solely as a symbolic tribute.
HJR 639 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Master Sergeant Nicole Hanson, an aerospace science instructor for the Lebanon High School Air Force Junior ROTC program in Tennessee. It recognizes her 22-year Air Force service, her role in revitalizing the JROTC program (including winning the Air Force Junior ROTC Outstanding Instructor Award in her first year), and her personal sacrifices like a lengthy commute to continue teaching. The resolution formally expresses the legislature's appreciation for her dedication to students and community service. As a symbolic gesture with no policy or legal impact, it does not create new requirements or affect any laws. The resolution was signed into law by the Governor on April 22, 2025.
House Resolution 129 is a ceremonial resolution passed by the Tennessee House of Representatives to formally commend Paul F. Tuttobene for his lifetime of service, including military service (1953-1957), a career as a senior vice president at Manufacturers Hanover Trust, and dedication to family values. The resolution, adopted unanimously with 86 ayes and 0 nays, recognizes his contributions as a first-generation college graduate, veteran, and community-oriented citizen. It serves as a symbolic honor to be presented to Mr. Tuttobene, with no policy changes or direct impact on laws or constituents.
HB 790 amends Tennessee law to allow honorably discharged National Guard members to receive a "veteran" designation on their driver's licenses. It directly affects National Guard members who provide documentation like a DD-256 discharge certificate or NGB Form 22 confirming an honorable discharge. The bill adds National Guard members to the existing definition of "veteran" for license designation under TCA §55-50-354 and specifies the required documents. This change took effect on April 3, 2025, after being signed by the Governor.
