Memorials, Retirement - Pat Nolan -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Randy McNally

A ceremonial Senate memorializes Pat Nolan for 50+ years in Tennessee journalism, honoring his retirement and recognizing his public service in broadcasting and political reporting.

Signed by Governor.

#memorials #retirement

Purpose and Intent

SJR 178 is a ceremonial joint resolution recognizing and honoring Pat Nolan on the occasion of his retirement from NewsChannel 5 (WTVF) in Nashville.

The resolution expresses appreciation for Nolan’s five decades of journalism, public service, and community involvement, and it invites the presentation of an official copy as a formal mark of respect.

Key Provisions and Content

Recognition of Pat Nolan as a Tennessee broadcasting figure with a career spanning more than 50 years at NewsChannel 5.

A detailed recounting of Nolan’s background:

Education: Father Ryan High School graduate (1969) and Vanderbilt University BA in Political Science with a History minor (1973).
Early career: Began at WPLN News (1973); joined NewsChannel 5 as a reporter in 1975.
Roles: Political analyst for NewsChannel 5 after 1985; anchor/announcer for Metropolitan Nashville Council meetings (1973–1975; 2019–2023); host of Inside Politics on NewsChannel 5+ since 2006 (originated as Inside This Week with Chris Clark).
Career in public relations: Worked at Hart & Company, Dye Van Mol & Lawrence, and DVL Seigenthaler, rising to senior VP of public relations and advertising before 2019.

Emphasizes Nolan’s reputation for thorough research, thoughtful questioning, and longstanding engagement with political topics and local/state/national issues.

Final ceremonial language: A formal expression of best wishes for his retirement and continued success, with a provision for an official copy of the resolution to be prepared.

Who/What Is Affected

Primary: Pat Nolan and his immediate professional legacy.

Secondary: NewsChannel 5 (WTVF), the Nashville broadcasting community, viewers of Inside Politics, and Tennessee’s broader audience who recognize Nolan’s contributions.

The measure is ceremonial and has no direct fiscal or regulatory effect.

Procedural and Timeline Details

Introduced: February 24, 2025.

Key legislative actions:

February 27, 2025: Introduced and passed first consideration.
March 3, 2025: Passed second consideration.
March 4, 2025: Placed on Senate Consent Calendar.
March 6, 2025: Engrossed; sponsor additions; adopted (Ayes 32–0).
March 7, 2025: Placed on House consent calendar for March 10.
March 10, 2025: Concurred.
March 11–12, 2025: Enrolled, and signed by Senate Speaker and House Speaker; transmitted to the Governor.
March 13, 2025: Signed by the Governor.

Status: The measure is enacted as a memorial resolution recognizing Pat Nolan on retirement.

Bottom Line

SJR 178 is a ceremonial, non-binding resolution that formally commends Pat Nolan for his long career in Tennessee journalism and public affairs, marks his retirement, and preserves his legacy within the state’s public service and broadcasting history. It reflects the General Assembly’s tradition of honoring notable Tennesseans for their contributions to the community.

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