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SJR 371

Memorials, Retirement - Kathy Jones-Terry -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Steve Southerland

Memorializes Kathy Jones-Terry on retirement after nearly 30 years as Hamblen County Clerk and Master, highlighting digital records, e-filing, and public-service innovations.

Signed by Governor.
#memorials #retirement
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Bill Summary · SJR 371

Summary of SJR 371 (Senate Joint Resolution 371)

Title and Purpose

  • Bill: SJR 371
  • Type: Joint Resolution
  • Purpose: Memorialize and recognize Kathy Jones-Terry on the occasion of her retirement as Hamblen County Chancery and Probate Court Clerk and Master. The resolution conveys the General Assembly’s appreciation for her public service and extends best wishes for her retirement.

Key Provisions

  • The resolution acknowledges Kathy Jones-Terry’s nearly 30-year tenure starting in 1995 as Clerk and Master of the Hamblen County Chancery and Probate Court.
  • It notes her prior service as a high school English and journalism teacher (1982–1995) and a one-year stint as an interviewer with the Hamblen County Department of Human Services.
  • It highlights her family legacy in the role, following her mother, Jean Wolfe Jones, who held the post for thirty years before her.
  • Specific achievements during her tenure include:
    • Creation and maintenance of a public website for the clerk and master office, including information on court matters and delinquent taxes.
    • Transition of the office to online delinquent tax sales and to electronic filing (e-filing).
    • Implementation of permanent digital storage of all Chancery and Probate Court records for Hamblen County.
    • Leadership and contributions to professional education and standards through the State Court Clerks' Association of Tennessee, including streamlining education courses and forming a committee to revise the clerks’ general manual.
  • The resolution expresses respect and admiration for her public spirit and community service.

Who Is Affected

  • Primary: Kathy Jones-Terry (honoree) and the Hamblen County Chancery and Probate Court employment community.
  • Secondary: The broader public who benefit from improved court services, digital records, and enhanced access to court information.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: April 1, 2025
  • Key Legislative Actions:
    • April 3, 2025: Introduced and passed first consideration
    • April 7–10, 2025: Various steps including passage on second consideration and placement on consent calendar
    • April 14–15, 2025: Senate consent and concurrence; sponsor additions
    • April 17, 2025: Enrolled and signatures by Senate leadership
    • April 21, 2025: Transmitted to Governor
    • April 24, 2025: Signed by Governor
  • Status: Signed into law by the Governor on April 24, 2025

Effect and Implementation

  • This is a ceremonial memorial recognizing a public servant’s career and contributions. It does not create new duties, impose new obligations, or authorize expenditures. Copies of the resolution are prepared for presentation consistent with standard legislative commemorations.

Context

  • As a memorial resolution, SJR 371 serves to formally honor Kathy Jones-Terry’s service, highlight her innovations in court administration, and publicly acknowledge her retirement.

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

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