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SB 1718

Holidays and Days of Special Observance - As enacted, designates November 2nd of each year as "James K. Polk Day." - Amends TCA Title 15, Chapter 2.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Joey Hensley

Tennessee designates November 2nd annually as James K. Polk Day to honor the 11th U.S. President and native son.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 623
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Bill Summary · SB 1718

Legislative bill overview

SB 1718 designates November 2nd as "James K. Polk Day" in Tennessee, adding it to the state's official calendar of holidays and days of special observance. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 15, Chapter 2, which governs state holidays and commemorative days.

Why is this important

State-designated observance days shape public commemoration and educational priorities, influencing how citizens learn about historical figures. While James K. Polk was the 11th U.S. President and a Tennessee native, designating days requires legislative time and resources, raising questions about which historical figures warrant official state recognition.

Potential points of contention

  • Selection criteria ambiguity: The bill doesn't establish clear criteria for why Polk merits a designated day over other Tennessee historical figures, potentially opening the door to numerous similar requests
  • Limited practical impact: Unlike statutory holidays, days of special observance typically don't result in paid time off or business closures, limiting their tangible effect
  • Historical complexity: Polk's presidency included the Mexican-American War and expansion of slavery-era territorial disputes, aspects that some may view as problematic for celebration without broader historical context

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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