This is a resolution (not a binding bill), formally urging the U.S. Congress to enact legislation that would expand veterans' access to treatments for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It specifically references the Veterans' National Traumatic Injury Treatment Act (H.R. 3649), which would fund pilot programs for therapies like hyperbaric oxygen therapy alongside counseling. The resolution does not create new policy but requests Congress adopt such legislation to improve veteran care. It directly affects veterans with TBI or PTSD by advocating for broader treatment options.
House Joint Resolution 646 designates May 13-24, 2025, as "Run for the Wall Week" in Tennessee. The resolution commemorates the annual Run for the Wall motorcycle event, which raises awareness about prisoners of war and missing in action personnel while honoring veterans. It specifically acknowledges the event's planned route through Tennessee, including stops in Cookeville (May 18-20) and Chattanooga (May 20-21), as part of its journey to Washington, D.C., and the Middle East Conflicts Wall in Marseilles, Illinois. This ceremonial resolution has no legal effect beyond symbolic recognition.
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 1140 allows Tennessee's Fish & Wildlife Commission to issue free temporary hunting licenses to veterans with any service-connected disability percentage who participate in hunts sponsored by not-for-profit organizations. The license is valid only for the duration of the specific hunting event (maximum 7 days) and requires a Veterans Administration certification as proof of disability. This policy change directly affects disabled veterans seeking access to organized hunting opportunities without cost. The bill amends Tennessee Code Sections 70-2-104 (hunting regulations) and 58 (fish & wildlife commission authority), effective July 1, 2025.
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.
HJR 519 is a joint resolution honoring Officer Robert A. Jackson, Jr., the last officer of the Tennessee Capitol Police, for his over 30 years of service. Signed by the Governor on April 15, 2025, the resolution recognizes his military career in the U.S. Air Force and his distinguished law enforcement work, expressing gratitude for his dedication to public safety in Tennessee. It does not create new laws or policies but formally acknowledges his retirement through a ceremonial expression of appreciation.
SB 1017 allows eligible disabled veterans in Tennessee to use a free parking placard instead of a special license plate for parking purposes. Veterans who qualify for a free license plate under existing law (TCA § 55-4-256) may apply for a free placard, while those already issued a free license plate can obtain a placard by paying the standard $20 fee. The placard must be displayed as directed and can be used in place of the license plate when parking. This policy change, effective July 1, 2026, directly affects disabled veterans who currently receive free license plates or qualify for them.
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.
