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SB 1732

Holidays and Days of Special Observance - As introduced, designates May 1 of each year as "Law Day." - Amends TCA Title 15, Chapter 2.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee designates May 1 as Law Day to honor the rule of law, without creating a paid holiday or new duties for government or schools.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1732

Summary of Bill SB 1732 (Session 114, Tennessee)

Purpose

  • Designates May 1 of each year as “Law Day” in Tennessee.
  • Section 1 adds a new provision to Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 15, Chapter 2 to officially observe May 1 as Law Day.
  • The designation is intended to honor the rule of law as the bedrock of Tennessee’s political and legal system.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Adds a new annual observance: May 1 is observed as “Law Day” in Tennessee.
  • The bill frames Law Day as a recognition and celebration of the rule of law.
  • Section 2 states the act takes effect upon becoming law, with the public welfare requiring it (i.e., immediate effect once enacted).

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Government and public institutions in Tennessee: May 1 would be an observed day emphasizing the rule of law, but the bill does not designate May 1 as a paid holiday or require government closures.
  • General public: Provides a statewide observance focused on civic education and appreciation for the legal system.
  • The bill notes that Law Day is not declared a legal holiday under Tenn. Code Ann. § 15-1-101; therefore, it does not create additional fiscal obligations or mandated paid time off for state or local government employees.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Legislative History:
    • Introduced in early 2026 and progressed through committees.
    • Passed the Senate (with unanimous or near-unanimous support, based on voting record) and moved to the House.
    • Passed the House (reported with affirmative votes) and transmitted to the Governor for action.
    • Ultimately signed into law in April 2026.
  • Effective Date: Upon becoming law (immediate effect once enacted).

Fiscal Impact

  • Fiscal note indicates a “not significant” impact.
  • Since Law Day is not a legal holiday, there are no additional state or local government costs anticipated from designating May 1 as Law Day.

Practical Takeaways

  • This bill codifies an annual May 1 observance titled “Law Day” to highlight the rule of law.
  • It does not create a paid holiday, alter work schedules, or impose new duties on government or schools beyond observance.
  • The designation aligns Tennessee with national or historical dialogues about law and civic responsibility, without broad fiscal or administrative burden.

If you’d like, I can add a brief comparison to how Law Day is observed in other states or provide potential examples of observance activities (e.g., educational programs, public ceremonies) that jurisdictions might implement under this designation.

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

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