Tennessee Senate Bill SJR0397

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/2/25
• Engrossed: 4/10/25
• Enrolled: 4/17/25
• Passed: 4/24/25

Caption

A RESOLUTION to honor the memory of Sondra Denise Keys-Wade.

Summary

SJR0397 is a commemorative Senate Joint Resolution honoring the memory of Sondra Denise Keys-Wade, a former colleague, attorney, public servant, and community volunteer. The resolution recounts her life, education, professional career, civic involvement, faith, and family relationships, emphasizing her service in government, law, public policy, and community organizations. It expresses sorrow at her passing and recognizes her as a person of integrity, compassion, and dedication. The resolution does not create or amend any state law, change agency authority, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is ceremonial: it directs that an appropriate copy be prepared for presentation and includes standard language allowing the resolution to be printed without House or Senate designation upon request. As a memorial measure, it primarily serves to place the General Assembly’s tribute into the official record.

Impact

SJR0397 has no substantive impact on Tennessee statutes, regulations, or government programs. It is a nonbinding memorial resolution that only honors an individual and authorizes the preparation of an official copy for presentation. The only practical effect is symbolic recognition by the General Assembly and preservation of the tribute in legislative records.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the resolution is uniformly positive and respectful. The bill passed both chambers overwhelmingly, including a 31-0 floor vote to adopt and a 95-0 vote for passage on third consideration, indicating broad bipartisan agreement and no recorded opposition. The tone of the resolution itself is deeply appreciative, emphasizing Ms. Keys-Wade’s service, character, and legacy.

Contention

There is no evident policy contention because the resolution is commemorative rather than regulatory. No committee debate is available, and the unanimous votes suggest no disagreement among legislators. Any discussion would likely have centered on honoring Ms. Keys-Wade’s contributions to public service, law, and community life rather than on competing policy positions.