Rep. Kirk Haston

Maddy summaryThis Tennessee bill updates the town charter for Sardis by removing outdated terms like debtor's prisons and city marshal, and it changes how town officials are selected and compensated. The legislation extends the terms of the mayor and aldermen from two to four years, allows the town to set meeting dates and official salaries through local ordinances rather than state law, and lowers residency requirements for voters within the municipality. Additionally, the bill clarifies the Recorder's role, grants the governing body more authority to manage town employees, and sets the date for the first election under the new rules to August 2026.

Maddy summaryHB 2485 updates Tennessee's definition of "economically disadvantaged" students to include those directly certified for free school meals (without household applications) and students from households receiving SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or Medicaid benefits. This change affects school districts (LEAs) receiving state education funding under the TISA formula, as it alters how student need is measured for allocation purposes. The bill requires the state to provide additional funds to any district whose TISA allocation decreases due to fewer identified disadvantaged students under the new definition, ensuring funding levels match prior years for the 2027-2028 school year through 2029-2030. It also mandates the state seek federal approval to update its ESSA plan to align with this revised definition.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution honors Pazley G. Rose, the 2026 valedictorian of Hardin County High School, for her academic excellence and community pride. The bill formally commends her outstanding grade point average and participation in extracurricular activities while wishing her well for the future. It directs the state to prepare a copy of the resolution for presentation to Ms. Rose, excluding certain formal clauses typically found in legislative documents.

Maddy summaryThis legislative resolution honors Emma R. Shelby, the 2026 Salutatorian at Hardin County High School, for her academic excellence. The bill formally commends her outstanding grade point average and balanced participation in extracurricular activities. It directs the General Assembly to present a copy of the resolution to her as a gesture of recognition and well wishes for her future.

Maddy summaryHB 1839 prevents Tennessee's Department of Correction from moving inmates from local jails to state facilities if they're in work release or re-entry programs. The bill specifically prohibits relocation unless an inmate fails to meet program requirements or has disciplinary issues that warrant removal. This directly affects inmates participating in these community-based programs, ensuring they can continue their supervision in local jails without unnecessary transfer. The law amends Tennessee statutes to enforce this restriction, focusing on maintaining program stability for eligible participants.

Maddy summaryThis House Joint Resolution formally honors Ian Patterson, the 2026 Valedictorian of Scotts Hill High School. The bill directs the Tennessee General Assembly to commend Patterson for his academic excellence and participation in extracurricular activities. It also authorizes the preparation of a copy of the resolution to be presented to him upon request.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution formally honors Connor Foster, the 2026 Salutatorian of Scotts Hill High School, for his academic achievements. The bill recognizes his high grade point average and successful participation in extracurricular activities during his high school career. It directs the state to present a copy of the resolution to him as a gesture of commendation and well wishes for his future.

Maddy summaryThis legislative bill is a House Joint Resolution designed to honor the memory of Gayle Duncan Gilmer, a respected educator and community member from Franklin, Tennessee. The resolution formally recognizes her life achievements, including her long career in special education, her dedication to her family, and her service to various church and community organizations. It does not create new laws or alter existing policies but serves as a ceremonial tribute to express the General Assembly's sympathy to her family and celebrate her legacy. The document is intended to be presented as a formal acknowledgment of her contributions rather than to effect any legal change.

Maddy summaryHB 1838 requires all high school students (grades 9-12), not just seniors, to take nationally recognized career readiness assessments. It also directs the Tennessee Board of Regents to create a system allowing students to earn college credit for these assessments toward postsecondary degrees. The bill directly affects high schools, public charter schools, and colleges governed by the Board of Regents. It takes effect July 1, 2026, and aims to better align high school career preparation with college pathways.

Maddy summaryHB 226, the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) bill, would create a 3% weighted funding allocation for students attending school districts with 1,001-1,250 students. This change directly affects small Tennessee school districts within that specific enrollment range by increasing per-student state funding. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, to establish this new funding category. It would take effect on July 1, 2025, if passed.