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SJR 176

Memorials, Recognition - Deputy Chief Sam Hinson, 30 years with Sevierville Police Department -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Steve Southerland

Ceremonial Tennessee Joint Resolution honors Deputy Chief Sam Hinson for 30 years with Sevierville Police, formally recognizing his public-safety service (no policy impact).

Signed by Governor.
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · SJR 176

Summary: Senate Joint Resolution 176 (SJR 176)

Overview

SJR 176 is a ceremonial joint resolution enacted by the Tennessee General Assembly to honor Deputy Chief Sam Hinson of the Sevierville Police Department for thirty years of service. The bill is a memorial/recognition measure rather than a bill imposing or altering public policy. It culminated in the Governor’s signature in March 2025.

Purpose and Intent

  • Recognize and commend Deputy Chief Sam Hinson for three decades of contributions to public safety in Sevierville and Sevier County.
  • Acknowledge his career progression, leadership roles, and impact on the Sevierville Police Department’s development and public safety outcomes.
  • Extend best wishes for his future endeavors and formally record the legislature’s appreciation.

Key Provisions and Content

  • The resolution outlines Deputy Chief Hinson’s career trajectory:
    • Joined the Sevierville Police Department in 1995, starting as a patrolman.
    • Contributed to growth in patrol staffing (from four to fifteen officers at one time).
    • Played a role in establishing and developing the SWAT team.
    • Served in the criminal investigations unit as a detective.
    • Advanced through leadership roles: lieutenant; interim CID captain; patrol division captain; operations captain for both divisions.
    • Ultimately became the first deputy chief of the department at the invitation of the chief.
  • The body includes multiple “WHEREAS” clauses praising his dedication, public service, and impact on public safety.
  • The governing language culminates in a formal “BE IT RESOLVED” clause, expressing the joint resolution’s intent to present an appropriate copy for presentation.
  • The measure is strictly ceremonial and does not authorize appropriations, create new duties, or impose regulatory changes.

Who Is Affected

  • Primary: Deputy Chief Sam Hinson and the Sevierville Police Department.
  • Secondary: Sevier County residents and the broader State of Tennessee, which officially recognizes exemplary local public service through this memorial.
  • No fiscal implications or policy shifts are associated with the resolution.

Procedural History and Timeline

  • 2025-02-24: Filed for introduction.
  • 2025-02-27: Introduced; passed First Consideration.
  • 2025-03-03: Passed on Second Consideration; referred to Senate Calendar Committee.
  • 2025-03-04 to 2025-03-06: Placed on Senate Consent Calendar; sponsor additions; adoption (Ayes 32–0).
  • 2025-03-07 to 2025-03-10: Transmitted to House; concurrence process; House action (Ayes 95–0–0 PNV on 3/10).
  • 2025-03-11 to 2025-03-12: Enrolled and signed by Senate Speaker; transmitted to Governor.
  • 2025-03-12 to 2025-03-13: Governor signs; SJR 176 becomes law.

Significance and Impact

  • SJR 176 serves as a formal, public acknowledgment of a long and impactful law enforcement career.
  • It provides an official record of appreciation and may be cited in ceremonial contexts, public events, or commemorative displays.
  • The measure reinforces community respect for local public safety leadership without affecting statutes, budgets, or enforceable duties.

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

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