Memorials, Academic Achievement - Addyson DeHart, Valedictorian, Halls High School -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Michele Carringer

The bill ceremonially commends Addyson DeHart as the 2026 Halls High School valedictorian, recognizing her academic excellence without creating policies or funding.

Signed by Governor.

#academicachievement #memorials

1) Purpose and intent

HJR 1499 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing and commending Addyson DeHart, identified as the 2026 valedictorian of Halls High School.

The resolution expresses formal tribute from the Tennessee General Assembly for Ms. DeHart’s academic achievement and character.

It serves to honor academic excellence, celebrate a local student’s accomplishments, and reflect positively on the school and community.

2) Key provisions and changes

Honorary recognition: The bill does not create new policies, programs, or funding. It simply records official recognition by both chambers of the Tennessee General Assembly.

Official commendation language: The resolution includes customary language praising Ms. DeHart’s:

Exceptional academic performance (valedictorian status for the 2026 graduating class at Halls High School)
Exemplary work ethic, GPA, and participation in extracurricular activities
Potential for future success and positive impact on family, school, and community

Disposition of text: The final clause clarifies that an appropriate copy of the resolution will be prepared for presentation, with specific formatting language about the copy upon request.

3) People, entities, and groups affected

Primary individual: Addyson DeHart, the 2026 valedictorian of Halls High School.

Secondary entities: Halls High School (and its community), the student’s family, and the broader local community that takes pride in student achievement.

Legislative bodies: Tennessee House of Representatives and the Tennessee Senate (concurrent approval implied by “concurring”).

4) Procedural timeline and process

Sponsor and action: Introduced by Representative Carringer; co-sponsored by Michele Carringer.

Status and timeline:

Filed for introduction and placed on the House consent calendar for April 16, 2026.
The bill is a memorializing resolution, typically proceeding without a public hearing and passing the chamber(s) to honor the individual.

Effective date: As a memorial resolution, it does not enact new laws or create administrative rules; its effect is ceremonial recognition upon legislative passage.

5) Additional context

The bill reflects a common practice in Tennessee and other states of issuing joint resolutions to recognize notable local students (valedictorians, salutatorians, scholarship awardees) and to honor their achievements.

No fiscal impact or policy enforcement changes are associated with this resolution.

If you’d like, I can tailor this into a one-page briefing for constituents or compare HJR 1499 to similar Tennessee memorial resolutions recognizing students.

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