Bill
SJR 1023
The bill memorializes Dustin Pedigo for his life, service to the community and TDOC, and extends condolences to his family, in a ceremonial acknowledgment.
Purpose
- SJR 1023 is a memorial resolution intended to honor and remember Dustin Matthew Pedigo of Rockwood, Tennessee.
- The resolution expresses sorrow at his passing, commends his character and life’s work, and offers condolences to his family.
Key provisions and changes
- Recognition of Dustin Pedigo’s life:
- Notes his birth date (June 26, 1990) and education (Heritage High School; pursuing a sociology degree at East Tennessee State University).
- Highlights his service with the Tennessee Department of Correction, describing his work as focused on community safety, reducing recidivism, and providing trauma-informed support.
- Emphasizes his devotion to family and community values.
- Expressions of sympathy:
- The General Assembly conveys condolences to Pedigo’s wife, Bethany “Jade” Bowman-Pedigo; his parents (Ken and Karen Pedigo); his brother (Brandon Pedigo); his sister (Kerri Pedigo); his grandmother (Grace Moore); his niece (Nadine); and other extended family.
- Acknowledges the loss to his extended family and community.
- Formal memorial language:
- The resolution reflects on Pedigo’s integrity, probity, compassion, loyalty, diligence, and dedication.
- States that the General Assembly should pause to remember his life and character.
- Administrative action:
- The resolution authorizes the preparation of an appropriate copy for presentation.
- Includes a standard clause about removing the final clause on the copy if requested.
- The language indicates concurrence by both chambers.
Who is affected
- Dustin Pedigo is the central person memorialized.
- Family members and the wider Rockwood community are acknowledged as those impacted by the tribute.
- Tennessee General Assembly members (as the entity delivering the memorial) are the participants in adopting and presenting the resolution.
Procedural and timeline aspects
- Introduction and sponsor:
- Sponsored in the Senate by Hatcher; co-sponsored by Tom Hatcher.
- Legislative progress:
- Introduced and passed the Senate on First Consideration (March 30, 2026).
- Passed without opposition on Second Consideration (April 2, 2026) and was placed on the Senate Consent Calendar (April 2, 2026).
- Passed the Senate on April 6–7, 2026; concurred by the House on April 8, 2026 (Ayes 95, Nays 0, PNV 0).
- Enrolled and ready for transmission; signed by the Senate Speaker and House Speaker (April 8, 2026).
- Transmitted to the Governor for action; signed by the Governor (April 10–16, 2026), finalizing the memorial.
- Effective date: The resolution takes effect upon the Governor’s signature and the formal concurrence of both chambers, as is customary for concurrent memorials.
Notes
- This bill is a commemorative measure and does not enact law or create new duties or funding.
- It serves as an official, ceremonial acknowledgment of Dustin Pedigo’s life and service.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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