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HB 1479

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

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Gino Bulso

Tennessee designates November 2nd as "James K. Polk Day" to honor the 11th U.S. President with state recognition and official observance status.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HB 1479

Legislative bill overview

HB 1479 designates November 2nd as "James K. Polk Day" in Tennessee, adding it to the state's official holidays and days of special observance. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 15, Chapter 2, which governs state holidays. It has passed both chambers unanimously and been signed by legislative leadership.

Why is this important

The bill honors James K. Polk, the 11th U.S. President who was born in North Carolina but had significant Tennessee connections, particularly to the Polk Place in Columbia. State-designated days of observance typically carry symbolic recognition but may have limited practical impact unless accompanied by provisions for public employee time off or business closures.

Potential points of contention

  • Resource allocation: Unclear whether "James K. Polk Day" recognition includes paid time off for state employees or affects business operations, creating potential fiscal or operational implications not detailed in available legislative summaries
  • Historical selectivity: Questions about why this particular president receives state designation while others do not, and whether the selection process is based on consistent historical criteria
  • Practical utility: Critics might argue that symbolic holiday designations have minimal public benefit compared to addressing substantive policy issues, particularly given the unanimous passage suggests limited deliberative debate

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

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