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SJR 1168

Memorials, Retirement - Mary Denise McNeal -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Bailey

Ceremonial resolution recognizing Denise McNeal’s long Public Defender’s Office service, leadership, animal-welfare advocacy, and retirement on July 31, 2026.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
#memorials #retirement
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Bill Summary · SJR 1168

Summary: Senate Joint Resolution 1168 (SJR 1168) – Tennessee, 114th General Assembly

Purpose

  • A ceremonial resolution to honor and commend Mary Denise (Denise) McNeal on the occasion of her retirement from the District Public Defender’s Office for the 13th Judicial District.
  • Recognizes her years of public service, leadership, and personal dedication to animal welfare.

Key Provisions and Provisions (What the bill does)

  • Official commendation: The resolution expresses appreciation for Denise McNeal’s service since 2001 as an employee of the District Public Defender’s Office for the 13th Judicial District.
  • Career summary:
    • Began as a legal assistant.
    • Advanced to the role of office manager, where she provided essential support to attorneys, staff, and clients and contributed to efficient office operations.
    • Noted for institutional knowledge, work ethic, attention to detail, leadership, and willingness to mentor new employees.
  • Personal and community contributions:
    • Highlighted for compassion and dedication beyond the workplace.
    • Active supporter of animal welfare, participating in rescue and foster organizations (e.g., Safe Haven Puppy Sanctuary, A.A.R.F. – All About Rescue and Fixin’ Inc.).
  • Retirement details:
    • Retirement date noted as July 31, 2026.
    • Describes retirement as the conclusion of a distinguished career in public service and the beginning of a new chapter.
  • Formal recognition:
    • The Senate (with House concurrence) extends best wishes for retirement with happiness, good health, and continued purpose.
    • An appropriate copy of the resolution will be prepared for presentation.

Who is Affected

  • Primary: Denise McNeal (individual being honored) and, by extension, her colleagues, the Conference Office, and supporters who recognize her service.
  • Indirect: The 13th Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and the broader Tennessee public service community, which is acknowledged for her contributions.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Status: Filed for introduction on April 16, 2026.
  • Sponsor: Senator Paul Bailey (primary) with a co-sponsor listed.
  • Date-specific details:
    • Retirement noted as effective July 31, 2026.
  • Type: Non-binding, ceremonial Joint Resolution to honor an individual rather than to effect policy changes.

Potential Impact

  • Formal public recognition of Denise McNeal’s contributions, potentially serving as a historical record of service.
  • May contribute to morale and appreciation within the District Public Defender’s Office and among colleagues.
  • No fiscal impact or policy changes are proposed; the resolution is symbolic.

Bottom Line

SJR 1168 is a ceremonial measure honoring Mary Denise McNeal for a long career with the District Public Defender’s Office in the 13th Judicial District, acknowledging her professional accomplishments, leadership, personal character, and advocacy for animal welfare, and wishing her well upon retirement effective July 31, 2026.

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

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