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HJR 692

Memorials, Retirement - TWRA Officer Craig Norris -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kelly Keisling

The bill formally commemorates and recognizes Wildlife Officer Craig Norris’s 35 years of service with the TWRA and wishes him well in retirement.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HJR 692

Summary of HJR 692 (Memorials, Retirement – TWRA Officer Craig Norris)

Overview

  • Type: House Joint Resolution (ceremonial memorial)
  • Title: Memorials, Retirement – TWRA Officer Craig Norris
  • Sponsor: Rep. Keisling
  • Status: Signed by Governor (May 7, 2025)
  • Introduced: April 21, 2025
  • Purpose: Honor and recognize the retirement of Wildlife Officer Craig Norris from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) after 35 years of service.

Purpose and Intent

HJR 692 serves as a formal, ceremonial expression by the General Assembly to recognize Craig Norris for his long career with TWRA, especially his service in Pickett County. The resolution commends Norris for dedication, community involvement, and professional conduct, and it extends best wishes for his future.

Key Provisions and Provisions Summary

  • Recognition of Service
    • Acknowledges that Norris is retiring after 35 years of service to Tennessee, primarily in Pickett County.
    • Highlights his organizational skills, knowledge of Pickett County, and steady leadership.
  • Career Details
    • Began his TWRA career with two years in Van Buren County, then transferred to Pickett County for the remainder of his career.
    • Noted for education efforts (hunter education, school programs) and enforcement of boating safety on Dale Hollow Reservoir.
    • Described as a “steady hand” and “great community officer” by his commanding officer.
    • Spent time engaging with hunters, anglers, and local residents; particularly enjoyed his work during the walleye run on the East Fork of the Obey River.
  • Personal Background
    • Grew up in Overton County; dreamed of becoming a game warden.
    • Earned a degree in wildlife management from Tennessee Technological University in 1989.
    • Married to Stephanie Norris.
  • Legislative Language
    • The resolution expresses formal admiration and extends best wishes for continued success and happiness.
    • Directs the preparation of an appropriate copy for presentation.
    • Includes a standard final clause regarding copy language and presentation format.
  • Scope
    • Entirely ceremonial; does not impose duties, create new obligations, or authorize expenditures.

Who is Affected

  • Primary: Craig Norris (TWRA Wildlife Officer) and his immediate family.
  • Indirect: TWRA, Pickett County community, and the broader Tennessee conservation and public-safety community through formal recognition of service.

Procedural History and Timeline

  • 2025-04-21: Introduced in the House; placed on House consent calendar.
  • 2025-04-22: House adopted and transmitted to Senate; engrossed and placed on Senate consent calendar; sponsor added.
  • 2025-04-28 to 2025-04-29: Passed by Senate; signed by Senate Speaker; enrolled; ready for signature of House Speaker.
  • 2025-04-29: Transmitted to Governor.
  • 2025-05-07: Signed by Governor.
  • Version number/code reference: 007953

Fiscal/Policy Impact

  • No substantive fiscal impact or policy changes. This is a ceremonial memorial recognizing a public employee’s career and retirement.

Why This Matters

  • Provides formal statewide acknowledgment of a long-tenured public servant.
  • Reinforces values of public service, community engagement, and safe, educational outreach in wildlife management.
  • Serves as a commemorative record of Norris’s contributions to TWRA and Tennessee communities.

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

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