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HB 1164

Law Enforcement - As enacted, authorizes uniformed law enforcement officers to wear decorations, medals, service medals, and badges awarded to the officers by the armed forces of the United States, the Tennessee national guard, or the state guard during the week prior to Veterans Day and Memorial Day, the day of Veterans Day and Memorial Day, and the day immediately following Veterans Day and Memorial Day. - Amends TCA Title 38 and Title 58.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jake McCalmon

Tennessee law enforcement officers may wear military medals and decorations on uniforms during Veterans Day and Memorial Day weeks to honor military service.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 391
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Bill Summary · HB 1164

Legislative bill overview

HB 1164 permits Tennessee law enforcement officers to wear military decorations, medals, and badges on their uniforms during specific periods around Veterans Day and Memorial Day—namely the week before, the day of, and the day after each holiday. The bill modifies Tennessee Code Annotated Titles 38 and 58, which govern state guard and law enforcement regulations.

Why is this important

This addresses a practical concern for officers with military service who wish to publicly honor their service and fallen comrades during commemorative periods. It acknowledges the overlap between law enforcement and military service by creating a narrow window for visible recognition without permanently altering uniform standards year-round.

Potential points of contention

  • Uniform consistency and professionalism standards: Some argue that permitting selective uniform modifications, even temporarily, may undermine standardized appearance requirements that support public trust and operational cohesion
  • Limited scope justification: Critics may question why only these specific holidays qualify and whether the three-day windows (before/day-of/after) are sufficiently meaningful or arbitrary
  • Interpretation and enforcement: Ambiguity about which "decorations and medals" qualify and oversight mechanisms could create inconsistent application across departments

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

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