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SJR 1233

Memorials, Public Service - Bennie Smith -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by London Lamar

The bill formally commends Bennie Smith for his service on the Tennessee State Election Commission.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
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Bill Summary · SJR 1233

Summary of Senate Joint Resolution 1233 (SJR 1233) – Tennessee, Session 114

Bill at a glance

  • Type: Senate Joint Resolution (non-binding resolution)
  • Sponsor: Senator Lamar; Co-sponsor: Senator London Lamar
  • Status: Introduced and passed first consideration (as of 2026-04-21)
  • Subject: Commendation of Bennie Smith for service on the Tennessee State Election Commission

1) Purpose and intent

  • The primary purpose of SJR 1233 is to publicly commend Bennie Smith of Shelby County for his honorable and astute service as a member of the Tennessee State Election Commission.
  • The resolution recognizes Smith’s public service, professionalism, integrity, and contribution to the state’s governance, particularly in the realm of elections.

2) Key provisions and changes

  • Commendation language: The resolution expresses appreciation for Bennie Smith’s service and achievements, noting his tenure on the Tennessee State Election Commission and his prior public service roles.
  • Biographical framing: It highlights Smith’s background as an analytics and technology professional, his experience in public service and finance, and his roles in various organizations (e.g., Shelby County Motor Vehicle Registration Administrator; former roles at ABB, Thomas & Betts, Hilton Worldwide; and public sector experience).
  • Public acknowledgment: The resolution directs that an appropriate copy be prepared and presented to Bennie Smith.
  • Non-binding nature: As a concurrent resolution, it serves to recognize and honor rather than to enact new laws or policy changes.

3) Who is affected

  • Beneficiary: Bennie Smith, for his service on the Tennessee State Election Commission.
  • Public impact: The resolution publicly acknowledges Smith’s contributions, reflecting positively on the state’s view of election governance and public service.
  • No new duties or funding: The resolution does not impose new requirements, programs, or financial allocations.

4) Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced and first chamber action:
    • Filed for introduction: 2026-04-20
    • Passed on first consideration: 2026-04-21
  • Next steps: As a concurrent resolution, it would typically proceed to final passage in both chambers (if not already completed) and would then be prepared for presentation. It does not require a signature from the governor to have effect as a ceremonial expression.

5) Notable context

  • Bennie Smith has been noted for applying data integrity, audit rigor, and financial controls to elections systems and governance, and has received national recognition. The bill situates his contributions within Tennessee’s broader commitment to reliable election administration.

If you’d like, I can provide a concise one-paragraph version for quick briefing or a side-by-side comparison with similar commendations for other election officials.

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

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