Memorials, Recognition - Priscilla Presley -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Raumesh Akbari

Ceremonial recognition of Priscilla Presley for preserving Graceland and promoting Memphis/Tennessee music heritage, tied to Womens History Month; no new laws or spending.

Transmitted to Governor for action.

#memorials #recognition

Purpose and intent

SJR 192 is a ceremonial joint resolution recognizing Priscilla Presley for her contributions to preserving and promoting Elvis Presley’s legacy, Memphis music, and the cultural heritage of Tennessee.

The measure also notes her receipt of the Governor’s Colonel Aide-de-Camp award and designates March as Women’s History Month within the resolution’s language.

Key provisions and changes

Official recognition: The Senate and House concur to honor Priscilla Presley as a Tennessee treasure for her leadership in preserving Graceland, promoting Memphis music, and advancing related charitable and cultural efforts.

Promotion of legacy: Acknowledges her efforts to transform Graceland into a world-renowned historic landmark and tourist destination, and her role as an international ambassador for Elvis, Memphis, and Tennessee music.

National and global impact: Highlights her work on projects like the Elvis documentary The Searcher (2018) and her ongoing involvement in promoting Memphis’ musical heritage.

February 27, 2025 introduction; March 10, 2025 governor’s action: The bill’s language states the recognition is tied to her receipt of the Colonel Aide-de-Camp award and frames the tribute as part of Tennessee’s celebration of Women’s History Month.

Who would be affected

Primary: Priscilla Presley, in recognition of her achievements.

Secondary: Tennessee’s cultural and tourism sectors, especially Memphis and Graceland, which are linked to her advocacy and preservation work.

No fiscal or statutory changes: The resolution is ceremonial and does not enact new law, create spending, or alter existing statutes.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced: February 27, 2025.

Key actions:

March 3–6, 2025: Passed on first and second considerations; engrossed; Rules suspended; transmitted to the House.
March 6–7, 2025: House/Senate concurrence steps and scheduling.
March 7–10, 2025: Enrolled, signed by presiding officers, and transmitted to the Governor.
March 10, 2025: Signed by the Governor; transmitted for action.

Status: Transmitted to Governor for action; Governor signed on March 10, 2025.

Background and context

The resolution places Priscilla Presley in the same spirit as Elvis Presley’s Governor’s Colonel Aide-de-Camp award (awarded to Elvis in 1961), framing her recognition as a continuation of Tennessee’s honor tradition for individuals who have shaped the state’s cultural landscape.

It explicitly ties Women’s History Month to the recognition, highlighting her role as a prominent Tennessee woman in the entertainment industry and philanthropic space.

Potential impact

Cultural and tourism endorsement: Reinforces Tennessee’s celebration of its musical heritage and could contribute to ongoing prominence of Graceland and related institutions.

Inspirational message: Elevates visibility of women leaders in Tennessee’s cultural history.

Fiscal impact: None; non-binding, ceremonial designation with no new spending or regulatory changes.

Bill