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HJR 508

Memorials, Recognition - Elephant Sanctuary -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jody Barrett

The bill formally commends The Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee for 30 years of humane elephant care, education, and community impact without funding or duties.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HJR 508

Summary: House Joint Resolution 508 (HJR 508) – Memorials, Recognition – The Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee

Overview

HJR 508 is a ceremonial House Joint Resolution recognizing and commending The Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee on its thirtieth anniversary. The resolution highlights the sanctuary’s role as a leading refuge for elephants retired from performance and exhibition and notes its contributions to the rural community of Lewis County.

Purpose and Intent

  • Honor The Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee for its 30 years of operation and its mission to provide a safe, natural habitat and lifetime care for elephants.
  • Acknowledge the sanctuary’s impact on animal welfare, education, and economic activity in the region.
  • Specifically commend two key individuals: Lois C. Knight (early volunteer and community outreach leader) and Dr. William Schaffner (advisor and board member, renowned for health and safety governance in elephant care).

Background and Context

  • Location: Hohenwald, Tennessee.
  • Establishment: The sanctuary began in 1995 and has since grown to encompass more than 3,060 acres with three distinct, protected natural habitats.
  • Current capacity: Home to a dozen elephant residents, with room to expand.
  • Operations: Employs about 50 staff in Lewis County; provides home, herd, rest, refuge, and lifelong care for elephants formerly used in circuses and educational settings.
  • Education and outreach: Operates a Discovery Center with hands-on exhibits, educational programming for families and schools, and distance-learning opportunities; offers internships and volunteer experiences.

Key Provisions and Impact

  • The resolution serves as an official commendation and expression of appreciation from the Tennessee General Assembly (both House and Senate concur).
  • Observes the sanctuary’s ongoing contributions to elephant welfare, science-based health and safety practices, and community engagement.
  • There is no appropriation of funds or creation of statutory duties; the measure is ceremonial and commemorative.

Beneficiaries and Affected Parties

  • Elephants living at The Elephant Sanctuary.
  • Sanctuary staff, interns, and volunteers.
  • The local community in Lewis County and visitors to the sanctuary’s Discovery Center and programs.
  • The broader audience of Tennessee residents who benefit from exemplary wildlife care and educational outreach.

Procedural Timeline and Status

  • Introduced: March 26, 2025.
  • Sponsor added: March 27, 2025.
  • Adopted by House: March 31, 2025 (Ayes 93, Nays 0, PNV 2).
  • Senate actions: Concurred and enrolled/ready for signature by April 9, 2025.
  • Transmitted to Governor: April 14, 2025.
  • Signed by Senate Speaker and H. Speaker: April 9, 2025.
  • Governor signed: April 15, 2025.
  • Status: Signed into law by the Governor; ceremonial resolution recognizing The Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee.

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

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