A RESOLUTION to honor the memory of Elder James Richard Hilliard of Springfield.
Summary
Senate Joint Resolution 170 is a commemorative resolution honoring the memory of Elder James Richard Hilliard of Springfield. The resolution recounts his long career as a line operator at Delight Products, his founding and pastoring of Calvary Temple, and his later service at City of Faith International in multiple church roles. It also recognizes his family life, community relationships, and the legacy of integrity, faith, and public service he left behind.
The measure does not change substantive law, create a new program, or appropriate funds. Instead, it directs the General Assembly to formally express respect, sympathy, and condolences to Elder Hilliard’s family and to prepare an appropriate copy of the resolution for presentation. Its practical effect is ceremonial and symbolic, adding an official legislative tribute to the public record.
Impact
SJR0170 has no direct impact on Tennessee statutes, regulations, or government operations beyond the ceremonial function of a joint resolution. It does not amend existing law or affect any regulated parties; its legal effect is limited to officially memorializing Elder Hilliard and authorizing presentation of the resolution with standard formatting language.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is unanimously positive and respectful. The voting history shows strong bipartisan support, with the Senate adopting the motion 32-0 and the full chamber later passing the resolution 94-0 on consent calendar third consideration. The text itself is laudatory throughout, emphasizing Elder Hilliard’s character, faith, service, and family devotion.
Contention
There is no apparent substantive contention in the bill text, committee record, or voting history. Because the resolution is honorary rather than policy-driven, no opposing arguments or competing stakeholder positions are reflected in the available materials. The only notable procedural point is that it was handled on the consent calendar and passed without recorded opposition.
Relating to contracting with a school district or open-enrollment charter school by a vendor with whom a member of the board of trustees or governing body of the district or school or a related individual has certain business interests; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to certain accountability-related policies and procedures related to public schools, the availability of information regarding a board of trustees of a school district or governing body of an open-enrollment charter school, and the approval by the Texas Education Agency of training provided to a member of a board of trustees of a school district.