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HR 1023

TO CONGRATULATE MR. JUSTIN TATE ON HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS.

2026 Fiscal Session Introduced by Chad Puryear

Justin Tate is recognized as a Guardian of the Flame for the Final Leg of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, carrying the Flame of Hope to the Opening Ceremonies.

READ AND ADOPTED.
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Bill Summary · HR 1023

Summary of HR 1023 (Session: 2026F, Arkansas)

Purpose

  • A House Resolution congratulating Mr. Justin Tate of Elkins, Arkansas, on being selected as a Guardian of the Flame for the Final Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run in connection with the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Recognizes Mr. Justin Tate as an accomplished Special Olympian and athlete.
  • Announces that the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games will take place in Minneapolis, Minnesota, beginning June 20, 2026.
  • Provides background on the Law Enforcement Torch Run, highlighting its status as the largest grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics (founded 1981).
  • Explains the Final Leg program:
    • Since 1987, selected law enforcement officers and Special Olympians are designated as “Guardians of the Flame,” carrying the Torch (the Flame of Hope) to the Opening Ceremonies of the Special Olympics World Games and USA Games.
    • The Final Leg involves up to eight Guardians of the Flame for a given event.
    • Guardians of the Flame symbolize dedication, fundraising, awareness, and preparation for Special Olympics.
  • Specifics for Mr. Tate:
    • Chosen as a Guardian of the Flame for the Final Leg of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.
    • Selection attributable to his dedication to Special Olympics Arkansas and his ability to run up to five miles per day.
    • In his role, he will carry the Flame of Hope to the Opening Ceremonies of the 2026 USA Games.
    • Start of duties: May 30, 2026; he will run across the United States leading up to the Opening Ceremonies on June 20, 2026.

Who/What is Affected

  • Mr. Justin Tate: recognized and celebrated for his role as Guardian of the Flame.
  • Special Olympics Arkansas: acknowledged as the beneficiary of Tate’s advocacy and participation.
  • The broader community of Special Olympics participants and supporters, through increased visibility and recognition of athletes and Torch Run activities.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Effective action: The resolution is introduced and filed with the House.
  • Timeline referenced:
    • May 30, 2026: Beginning of Tate’s duties as Guardian of the Flame.
    • June 20, 2026: Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
  • Action history notes:
    • Filed on April 14, 2026.
    • Read and referred to the House Management Committee on April 14, 2026 (after first reading with rules suspended, as part of the normal legislative process for resolutions).

Notes

  • This is a ceremonial/recognition measure rather than a substantive policy change.
  • Co-sponsor: Representative Chad Puryear.

If you’d like, I can provide a concise one-paragraph summary for quick briefing or a side-by-side comparison with similar past resolutions recognizing Guardians of the Flame.

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

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