Capitol Roundup: First Week --A Strong Start

This week marked the official start of legislative session, and it was a full and eventful one. 

Monday, I traveled to Nashville and got settled into my short-term living quarters in preparation for the work ahead. It’s always an adjustment being away from home, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve and ready to get to work on behalf of District 27. 

Tuesday began on the right foot with prayer alongside many of my  colleagues who gathered for a  time of prayer  led by Bill Geisel, our State Chaplain. Bill is  is truly a blessing to the General Assembly. Shortly after, session officially kicked off and we voted on our first bill of the year.

That bill, HB 884, was carried over from last session and had already passed committee. It closes a loophole related to adult entertainment performances being held outside of adult entertainment establishments. Under this new statute, these “moving” or pop-up shows must also comply with existing distance requirements, meaning they cannot take place within 1,000 feet of a school. This was an important step in protecting our communities and children.

The first day of session was not without disruption. Protesters shouted from the gallery, ultimately requiring removal by State Troopers to maintain order. Later that evening, protesters were also present at an event, making for an interesting entrance and exit for many legislators. Unfortunately, beyond the yelling and name-calling, some of my colleagues were even spit on. We later learned that many of these individuals were paid protesters, including one who traveled all the way from New Jersey. While disagreement is part of the process, harassment and disorder have no place in civil discourse.

Wednesday and Thursday, we returned for  floor sessions. Each session includes a Consent Calendar, which is currently made up largely of recognition items such as memorials, retirements, and anniversaries. This week, I sponsored two House Joint Resolutions:

• HJR 762,  recognizing the life and legacy of Kay Arthur, who passed away last year and made profound contributions through her ministry and teaching in Chattanooga and beyond.

• HJR 763, honoring Siskin Steel for 125 years of business and service to our community.

  
  

I also co-sponsored two additional House Joint Resolutions:

• HJR 711, remembering Charlie Kirk and honoring his life and legacy.

• HJR 739, recognizing International Holocaust Remembrance Day, reaffirming our commitment to remembering the victims of the Holocaust and ensuring such atrocities are never forgotten.

  
  

One of the neat things about House Joint Resolutions is that they are permanently recorded in the official Tennessee Journals of History. If you, your family, or your business have something you would like recognized, please contact my office with the details. I am also happy to provide you with copies of the resolution signed by myself, the Speaker, and the Governor.

Outside of floor sessions, I spent the remainder of the week working on legislation, helping constituents navigate issues and concerns, and meeting with fellow Representatives and Senators to discuss bills and gain Senate sponsors.

Legislation I Filed This Week

In addition to floor sessions and meetings, I officially filed several bills this week that reflect my commitment to protecting families, supporting law enforcement, and strengthening our communities.

House Bill 1692 —Adoption Home Study Waiver Bill

This bill would give courts the ability to waive the required adoption home study in certain circumstances. Specifically, if a child has already lived in the prospective adoptive parent’s home for at least six months and the court determines the adoption is in the best interest of the child, the home study requirement could be waived. The goal is to remove unnecessary procedural delays in adoption when a stable, loving placement has already been established, while still allowing the court to protect the child’s well-being.

House Bill 1693 – Veterans’ Documentation for Public Benefits

I also filed HB 1693, which expands the list of acceptable documentation that an applicant may use to verify U.S. citizenship when applying for federal, state, or local public benefits. Specifically, this bill would allow a DD-214 (certificate of release or discharge from active duty) issued by the U.S. Department of Defense to be accepted for this purpose—helping veterans and their families access benefits more easily and with less hassle.

House Bill 1694 —Tennessee K-9 Emergency Medical Care and Transport Act This bill would authorize emergency medical personnel (with proper training and oversight) to provide emergency medical care to injured canine first respondersand transport them to veterinary facilities when needed. It also includes liability protections (immunity in good faith) for those who render such care in the line of duty. This legislation ensures our K-9 partners receive timely, lifesaving treatment when they are hurt protecting our communities.

House Joint Resolution 780 – Constitutional Amendment on Food & Agricultural Rights

I also filed HJR 780, a proposed constitutional amendment that would add a provision to the Tennessee Constitution establishing the right to food, including the right to save and exchange seeds, and the right to grow, raise, harvest, produce, acquire, and consume the food of one’s own choosing for nourishment, sustenance, bodily health, and well-being.

Overall, it was a productive and encouraging first week—but there is still much work ahead. I’m grateful for your continued support and prayers as we move forward this session.

Your feedback shapes my work at the Capitol! I welcome your thoughts on these or any other legislative matters affecting our district. Please don't hesitate to reach out to my office by phone at (615) 741-2746 or by email at Rep.Michele.Reneau@capitol.tn.gov.

It's an honor representing you in Nashville. Together, we can ensure our community's values are reflected in state policy.

Michele Reneau

TN State Representative

District 27