Memorials, Recognition - Alvin Murphy, Governor's Volunteer Stars Award -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Renea Jones

Recognizes Alvin Murphy for outstanding volunteer leadership and Hurricane Helene relief efforts, highlighting Tennessee’s value on public service.

Signed by Governor.

#memorials #recognition

Overview

HJR 546 is a ceremonial joint resolution in the Tennessee General Assembly that honors Alvin Murphy for his volunteer leadership and recognizes him as a recipient of the Governor's Volunteer Stars Award. The measure emphasizes the value of volunteerism in Tennessee and publicly commends Mr. Murphy for his service during community recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene.

Purpose and Intent

To formally recognize Alvin Murphy for exceptional community leadership and volunteerism.

To congratulate him on receiving the Governor’s Volunteer Stars Award, a statewide recognition program.

To express best wishes for his future endeavors and to reflect the General Assembly’s appreciation of volunteers who address community needs.

Key Provisions and Provisions’ Impacts

The resolution states that the General Assembly honors Alvin Murphy for his outstanding leadership and as an esteemed recipient of the Governor’s Volunteer Stars Award.

It highlights Mr. Murphy’s actions during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, when Southside Baptist Church served as an emergency services hub and Mr. Murphy coordinated relief efforts, documented needs, and facilitated supply runs while taking time off from his job as an orthopedic physician assistant.

The text situates his contributions within Tennessee’s broader context of volunteerism (noting that 1.3 million Tennessee volunteers contribute over 99 million hours of service annually, worth about $2.6 billion to the state's economy).

The resolution provides for the preparation of an appropriate copy for presentation, with a specified format to omit certain text related to House/Senate designation at the final copy.

The measure is strictly ceremonial; it does not create or modify law, impose duties, or authorize expenditures.

Who/What is Affected

Alvin Murphy (Unicoi County resident) – named and honored for his volunteer service.

Unicoi County and the broader Tennessee volunteer community, as the resolution highlights and endorses volunteer leadership.

Government and citizens who benefit from amplified recognition of volunteerism and public service.

Procedural History and Timeline

Introduced: April 1, 2025 (Sponsor: Jones R).

April 3–7, 2025: Various procedural steps including introduction, sponsor addition, adoption on House floor, and referrals.

April 8–14, 2025: Engrossed, transmitted to Senate, sponsor actions, and concurred in the Senate with a unanimous vote (Ayes 32, Nays 0).

April 15–16, 2025: Enrolled and prepared for signature by presiding officers (House Speaker and Senate Speaker).

April 21–24, 2025: Transmitted to the Governor for action; Governor signed the bill on April 24, 2025.

Final status: Signed by the Governor (April 24, 2025).

Significance

The bill serves to publicly acknowledge and celebrate volunteer service, reinforcing the value placed on community leadership and service in Tennessee.

It provides a formal record of appreciation by both chambers of the General Assembly and the Governor, which may inspire ongoing civic engagement without implementing new policy or fiscal requirements.

Bill