A RESOLUTION to recognize Bea's Restaurant upon its seventy-fifth anniversary.
Summary
House Joint Resolution 148 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Bea’s Restaurant in Chattanooga on the occasion of its 75th anniversary. The resolution recounts the restaurant’s history, beginning with its opening in 1950 by Bill and Beatrice Steele, its growth from a small family establishment to a long-standing local institution, and its continued operation by the Steele/Bradshaw family across four generations. It highlights the restaurant’s signature lazy Susans, scratch-made Southern food, and role as a gathering place for generations of Chattanooga residents.
The resolution does not change substantive law or create any regulatory requirements. Instead, it directs that an appropriate copy be prepared for presentation and expresses the General Assembly’s commendation of the owners, staff, and management for their service, hospitality, and contribution to the community. Its practical effect is symbolic recognition of a local business and its place in Tennessee’s cultural and culinary history.
Impact
HJR0148 has no direct impact on state statutes, agency authority, or private legal rights. It is a commemorative House Joint Resolution that formally recognizes Bea’s Restaurant and its owners, staff, and family for their longevity and service, but it does not amend, repeal, or enact any law. The only operational effect is the preparation and presentation of an official copy of the resolution.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is uniformly positive and celebratory. The bill passed both chambers overwhelmingly, including a 88-0 consent calendar passage on third consideration in the House and a 31-0 motion to adopt in the Senate. The language of the resolution itself is laudatory, emphasizing the restaurant’s food, service, family legacy, and importance to the Chattanooga community.
Contention
There is no notable contention reflected in the bill text, committee materials, or voting history. No committee debate is provided, and the unanimous votes suggest broad bipartisan agreement. The measure appears to have been treated as a noncontroversial honorary resolution recognizing a well-regarded local business rather than a policy issue.