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SJR 1157

Memorials, Recognition - Alberto R. Gonzales -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

A ceremonial resolution recognizing Alberto R. Gonzales for his long, influential career in public service, law, and legal education across federal and Texas roles.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · SJR 1157

Summary — Senate Joint Resolution 1157 (SJR 1157), 114th Tennessee General Assembly

Purpose

  • To honor and commend Alberto R. Gonzales for his distinguished career in public service, leadership in law, and contributions to legal education and public service in the United States and Texas.

Key Provisions

  • Formal recognition by the Tennessee General Assembly of Alberto R. Gonzales’s:
    • Professional achievements in public service and the legal field.
    • Leadership roles in education, government, and private practice.
    • Service at national and state levels, including:
    • Attorney General of the United States (during President George W. Bush’s administration)
    • Counsel to the President
    • Justice on the Supreme Court of Texas
    • Texas Secretary of State
    • General Counsel to the Governor of Texas
    • Academic leadership as dean of Belmont University College of Law and holding the Doyle Rogers Distinguished Chair of Law.
    • Involvement with the Uniform Law Commission, contributing to the development of uniform and well-drafted state laws.
  • Recognition of his contributions to legal education, professional integrity, and the rule of law.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Alberto R. Gonzales would receive formal recognition from the Tennessee General Assembly.
  • The resolution itself serves as a ceremonial tribute to his career and impact; it does not create new laws, obligations, or financial costs, nor does it impose regulatory changes.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Status: Filed for introduction on April 15, 2026.
  • Type of measure: Joint resolution (non-binding ceremonial acknowledgement) passed by both chambers (Senate and House) in the form of a concurrent resolution.
  • The text indicates standard practice for memorializing an individual’s public service and achievements and includes language suitable for presentation to the honoree or for inclusion in official records.

Additional Context

  • The resolution highlights Gonzales’s academic credentials (Rice University BA; Harvard Law School JD) and his military academy background (United States Air Force Academy), underscoring the breadth of his career across education, government, and private sector law.
  • It notes his recognition by various organizations (e.g., Rice University Distinguished Alumnus, Harvard Law School Association Award, CIA Director’s Award, DoD Medal for Exceptional Public Service) and media outlets (TIME Magazine, HISPANIC magazine) aspart of establishing his distinction.

Bottom Line

SJR 1157 is a ceremonial, non-policy, non-funding measure recognizing Alberto R. Gonzales for a long and influential career in law and public service, including notable leadership roles in the federal and Texas governments, as well as contributions to legal education and the Uniform Law Commission. The resolution serves as an official expression of respect and best wishes from Tennessee’s legislature.

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

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