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Bill

SJR 324

Memorials, Academic Achievement - Sam Dicus, Salutatorian, White County High School -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Bailey

Tennessee legislature passes ceremonial resolution honoring White County High School salutatorian Sam Dicus for academic achievement through formal legislative recognition.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · SJR 324

Legislative bill overview

SJR 324 is a memorial resolution passed by the Tennessee legislature recognizing Sam Dicus for achieving salutatorian (second-highest) honors at White County High School. The bill formally commemorates this academic achievement through legislative action and was signed by the Governor on April 10, 2025.

Why is this important

Memorial resolutions serve as official public recognition of individual achievements and contributions. While ceremonial in nature, they reflect community values and provide permanent legislative record of accomplishments. This type of recognition can be meaningful for the student's academic record and future opportunities.

Potential points of contention

  • Use of legislative time: Some argue that state legislatures should prioritize substantive policy matters rather than individual student recognition, which could be handled through school or local ceremonies
  • Selectivity and equity: Memorial resolutions for individual students raise questions about fairness—whether other high-achieving students at other schools receive similar recognition, and how selection criteria are determined
  • Precedent concerns: Widespread use of this approach could lead to numerous similar requests, consuming legislative resources and potentially diluting the significance of the honor

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

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