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HJR 1559

Memorials, Recognition - Memphis Zoo, 120th anniversary -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Gabby Salinas

HJR 1559 honors the Memphis Zoo’s 120th anniversary, highlighting its education, conservation, and community impact without changing laws or funding.

Signed by Senate Speaker
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · HJR 1559

Summary: House Joint Resolution 1559 (HJR 1559), 114th Tennessee General Assembly

Purpose

  • To honor and congratulate the Memphis Zoo on the occasion of its 120th anniversary.
  • Expresses gratitude for the Zoo’s contributions to education, conservation, and community engagement in Memphis and across Tennessee.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Declares that the Tennessee General Assembly recognizes and celebrates the Memphis Zoo’s 120-year milestone (founded April 4, 1906).
  • Highlights the Zoo’s role as an educational and recreational resource, its conservation efforts, and its long-standing service to the public.
  • Notes specific achievements and features of the Zoo, including:
    • Size and scope: 76 acres, three zones, 19 exhibits.
    • Notable exhibits: Teton Trek, Northwest Passage, Cat Country.
    • Current scope: more than 3,500 animals representing over 500 species.
    • Recognition and accolades: Newsweek Readers’ Choice #2 Best Zoo in the U.S. (2024); USA Today Top 5 Best Zoos (2014, 2022); TripAdvisor’s Number One Zoo in America (2008).
  • Provides that an appropriate copy of the resolution be prepared for presentation, with a specific clause about formatting of the final copy (excluding the final clause from the copy prepared for presentation).

Who/What is Affected

  • The Memphis Zoo and its staff, supporters, and visitors are acknowledged as a key community institution.
  • The resolution itself is an official government acknowledgment by Tennessee’s General Assembly (House and Senate) in concurrence.

Procedural/Timeline Details

  • Status: Introduced and filed for introduction on April 21, 2026.
  • Movement: Placed on the House consent calendar for April 22, 2026.
  • Sponsor: Primary sponsor is Rep. Salinas (with Co-sponsor Rep. Gabby Salinas listed).
  • No fiscal provisions or regulatory changes are included; the measure is ceremonial and commemorative.
  • Final form: If adopted, an appropriate copy will be prepared for presentation, with a formatting clause regarding the final copy’s appearance.

Practical Impact

  • Formal recognition by the state can be used to highlight the Zoo’s contributions in official communications and public events.
  • Serves as a ceremonial tribute rather than imposing any regulatory requirements or funding changes.

Quick Take

  • HJR 1559 is a nonbinding memorial resolution recognizing the Memphis Zoo’s 120th anniversary and applauding its impact on education, conservation, and the community. It reflects bipartisan ceremonial acknowledgment typical for long-standing cultural institutions.

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

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