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HJR 1611

Memorials, Retirement - Hawkins County Sheriff Ronnie Lawson -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Gary Hicks

The bill formally recognizes and commends Hawkins County Sheriff Ronnie Lawson upon his retirement for his decades of leadership, professionalism, and public safety service.

Transmitted to Governor for his action.
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Bill Summary · HJR 1611

Summary of Bill: HJR 1611 (Session 114, Tennessee)

Title

Memorials, Retirement – Hawkins County Sheriff Ronnie Lawson

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill is a House Joint Resolution recognizing and honoring Hawkins County Sheriff Ronnie Lawson on the occasion of his retirement.
  • It commemorates Lawson’s long career in law enforcement and expresses appreciation for his service to Hawkins County and the state.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Formal recognition by the General Assembly of Sheriff Ronnie Lawson’s retirement, including a statement of commendation for his professionalism, integrity, and leadership.
  • The resolution highlights Lawson’s career milestones and contributions to the county, including:
    • Began law enforcement career in 1977 with the Rogersville Police Department.
    • Became the department’s first detective in 1989.
    • Served as Chief Deputy for Sheriff Wayne Clevinger in 1990; worked part-time as Chief of Police for the Town of Bulls Gap for two years.
    • Instrumental in creating specialized units: the Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Unit (established 1991) and the Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit (established 1996).
    • Served as Chief Detective and later in the Patrol Division under former Sheriff Warren Rimer before being elected Sheriff in 2010.
    • Oversaw all aspects of law enforcement in Hawkins County, including jail administration and supervision of officers and staff for a population of more than 60,000 across nearly 500 square miles.
  • Notes involvement in community and professional organizations, including:
    • Hawkins County Emergency Services Board of Directors
    • 911 Central Dispatch Center
    • Tennessee Sheriffs' Association
    • Rogersville Shrine Club
    • Fraternal Order of Police – Burgess Mills Post

Who/What Is Affected

  • Primary: Hawkins County Sheriff Ronnie Lawson (recognition upon retirement).
  • Secondary: Public perception and historical record of Hawkins County law enforcement leadership.
  • No regulatory or fiscal changes are imposed on agencies, budgets, or operations; the measure is ceremonial.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Legislative status: Joint resolution recognized and approved within the General Assembly.
  • Recent actions:
    • April 22, 2026: Introduced, placed on House consent calendar; passed House with unanimous vote (Ayes 93, Nays 0).
    • April 22–23, 2026: Transferred to Senate processes; placed on Senate Consent Calendar.
    • April 23, 2026: Concurred by the Senate (Ayes 32, Nays 0).
  • Effective date: As a resolution recognizing retirement, it would take effect upon adoption by both chambers and presentation to Sheriff Lawson.

Impact and Significance

  • The resolution serves as a formal, bipartisan acknowledgment of Sheriff Lawson’s decades of service and his impact on public safety in Hawkins County.
  • It provides a historical record of leadership achievements, including creation of specialized units and overall governance of county law enforcement operations.
  • While primarily ceremonial, such resolutions can enhance community pride and set a precedent for recognizing public service milestones.

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

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