WeVote

Bill

Bill

SR 51

Memorials, Recognition - George Washington Day in Tennessee, February 22, 2025 -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Becky Massey

A ceremonial resolution recognizing George Washington’s legacy and inviting Tennesseans to reflect on it, while encouraging educational engagement through Mount Vernon.

Enrolled and ready for signatures
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 51

Summary — Senate Resolution 51 (SR 51), 114th Tennessee General Assembly

Purpose

  • Commemorates February 22, 2025, as “George Washington Day” in Tennessee.
  • Recognizes George Washington’s leadership and contributions to the founding and development of the United States.
  • Encourages Tennessee residents to reflect on Washington’s legacy and visit Mount Vernon for educational opportunities.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Declares February 22, 2025, as George Washington Day in the State of Tennessee.
  • Contains a narrative honoring Washington’s:
    • Birth on February 22, 1732 and his role as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army.
    • Leadership in pivotal moments (e.g., crossing the Delaware, victory at Yorktown).
    • Establishment of civilian supremacy over the military (1783 mutiny incident).
    • Role as president of the Constitutional Convention and as the first U.S. president.
    • Practice of voluntary restraint after two terms to ensure peaceful transfer of power.
    • Commitment to religious freedom and the contemplated moral stance on slavery.
    • Death at Mount Vernon and the enduring public reflection on his legacy.
  • Encourages engagement with Mount Vernon’s educational resources, including teacher institutes to educate future generations about Washington’s ideals.

Who/What Would Be Affected

  • Primarily a ceremonial designation affecting public perception and observance within Tennessee.
  • No creation of a legal holiday (as noted in the fiscal note). The resolution does not impose new statutory holidays or mandated state closures.
  • Educational and commemorative activities may be encouraged by state and local government, schools, and civic organizations.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Legislative action history:
    • Introduced and placed on First Consideration (March 12, 2025).
    • Passed the Senate on Second Consideration (March 17, 2025) and referred to Senate State and Local Government Committee (March 25, 2025).
    • Recommended for adoption by the Senate State and Local Government Committee (March 25, 2025).
    • Adopted by the Senate Consent Calendar (April 1, 2025) with a vote of Ayes 30, Nays 0.
    • Signed by Senate Speaker and enrolled for signatures (April 4, 2025).
  • Fiscal impact:
    • Not significant. The fiscal note states the bill does not declare a legal holiday and any costs related to preparing/transmitting copies of the resolution are not significant.
  • Sponsor:
    • Primary sponsor: Senator Massey
    • Co-sponsor: Senator Becky Massey

Takeaway

SR 51 is a non-binding, ceremonial measure recognizing George Washington’s historical significance and inviting Tennesseans to reflect on his contributions, while encouraging educational engagement through Mount Vernon. It does not alter state holidays or incur meaningful fiscal costs.

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

Sign in to ask a question.