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SJR 1055

Memorials, Recognition - Rita Taylor -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ferrell Haile

The bill memorializes Rita Taylor for decades of charitable work and community leadership, recognizing her service and public impact without creating duties or funding.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
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Bill Summary · SJR 1055

Summary — Senate Joint Resolution 1055 (SJR 1055), 114th Tennessee General Assembly

Overview

  • Type: Senate Joint Resolution
  • Subject: Memorializing/recognizing an individual
  • Sponsor: Senator Ferrell Haile (co-sponsor)
  • Title: Memorials, Recognition - Rita Taylor
  • Purpose: Honor Rita Taylor for her community service and a top-five finish in WKRN’s Remarkable Women campaign.

1) Purpose and Intent

  • The resolution expresses formal recognition and commendation of Rita Taylor for her extensive charitable work and public service in Portland, Tennessee.
  • It highlights Taylor’s resilience after a non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis, her commitment to helping others, and her broad record of community involvement.
  • The measure serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment by both chambers of the Tennessee General Assembly.

2) Key Provisions and Changes

  • Acknowledges Rita Taylor as a “Remarkable Woman” and notes her top-five finish in WKRN’s Remarkable Women campaign.
  • Documents and honors her service activities, including:
    • Mission trips to the Amazon (Brazil), Honduras, and Kenya, focusing on sight restoration (glasses provision).
    • Prison ministry for women, including Bible studies, talent shows, and arts/crafts to support rehabilitation and new beginnings.
    • Nearly three decades of puppet shows in Portland schools to educate youth about the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
    • Eight years running Taylor’s Stayin’ Alive Divas, a health-focused fundraising effort for the American Cancer Society.
    • Ongoing volunteer work with Hands of Hope Food Pantry and delivering groceries to homebound seniors.
  • Notes that she has twice been named Citizen of the Year by the Portland Chamber of Commerce.
  • The resolution does not impose duties, funding, or regulatory changes; it constitutes a ceremonial honor.

3) Affected Parties

  • Primary: Rita Taylor (honored individual).
  • Community as a whole in Portland, Tennessee, which benefits from and may be inspired by her public service record.
  • No regulatory or fiscal obligations placed on state agencies, local governments, or private entities.

4) Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Legislative history (highlights):
    • Introduced: April 2, 2026
    • First Consideration: April 6, 2026 (passed)
    • Second Consideration/Consent: April 9–13, 2026 (placed on Senate Consent Calendar; adopted on April 13, 2026)
    • Concurred by House: April 15, 2026 (Ayes 90, Nays 0, Pending/Vacant 2)
  • Final status: Concurred by both chambers and prepared for presentation as a memorial resolution.
  • Effect: Once enacted, serves as an official commemorative expression from the Tennessee General Assembly recognizing Rita Taylor’s service and achievements.

Notes for Readers

  • This is a ceremonial resolution; it does not create statutory requirements, authorize funding, or impose penalties.
  • The recognition is focused on personal character, volunteerism, and community impact demonstrated by Rita Taylor.

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

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