Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SR0002

Introduced
1/27/25  
Enrolled
1/28/25  

Caption

A RESOLUTION to recognize Victoria Eady Butler of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, the first Black female master blender.

Summary

Senate Resolution 2 is a ceremonial measure that recognizes and honors Victoria Eady Butler of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. The resolution highlights her distinction as the first Black female master blender in the premium whiskey industry in the United States, her role with the Nearest Green Foundation, and her connection to the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green. It also notes her upcoming keynote appearance at a Memphis Delta Sigma Theta Founders Day celebration and praises her as an exemplary Tennessean. The resolution does not create or amend any state law, impose regulatory requirements, or appropriate funds. Its effect is purely commemorative: it directs the Senate to formally acknowledge Ms. Butler’s accomplishments and to prepare an official copy of the resolution for presentation. As a result, the bill has no direct legal or fiscal impact on state statutes, agencies, or private parties beyond the symbolic recognition itself. The general sentiment surrounding the resolution is strongly positive and celebratory. The language is laudatory throughout, emphasizing Ms. Butler’s pioneering status, professional success, and connection to Tennessee heritage. Because the bill is a recognition resolution rather than substantive legislation, there is no recorded policy debate or vote-related controversy in the provided materials. There are no notable points of contention in the available record. The resolution is framed as a unanimous-style tribute to an individual’s achievements and cultural significance, with no opposition, amendments, or competing viewpoints reflected in the text or context provided.

Impact

This resolution has no direct effect on Tennessee statutes, regulations, or government programs. It is a ceremonial acknowledgment by the Senate that formally recognizes Victoria Eady Butler’s accomplishments and contributions to the premium whiskey industry and to the legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green. The only practical action required is preparation of an official copy of the resolution for presentation.

Sentiment

The sentiment is wholly positive and honoring. The resolution uses celebratory language to commend Victoria Eady Butler’s pioneering role as the first Black female master blender, her leadership with Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey and the Nearest Green Foundation, and her significance as a Tennessean. No votes, committee remarks, or other context indicate any opposition or divided opinion.

Contention

No substantive contention is evident in the bill text or the available legislative history. Because SR0002 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing an individual’s achievements, it does not appear to have generated policy disagreement, fiscal concerns, or procedural controversy. The only potentially notable aspect is that it highlights representation and historical recognition in the whiskey industry, but the resolution itself presents that as a point of praise rather than dispute.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TN SJR0019

A RESOLUTION to recognize Victoria Eady Butler of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, the first Black female master blender.

TN SR0009

A RESOLUTION to recognize and congratulate Terrell Carpenter, 2025 Florida A. Collins Delta of the Year.

TN HCR0029

Recognizing the Divine Nine chapters of Indiana.

TN SR0331

A RESOLUTION to honor Reverend Shavon Arline-Bradley, keynote speaker for the 113th Founders Day Observance of the Memphis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

TN HR35

Recognizing the 112th Anniversary of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

TN HR990

Recognizing the 113th anniversary of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

TN SR0008

A RESOLUTION to honor the memory of Patricia Ann Jones Murphy of Memphis.

TN HCR40

Recognizing May 20, 2025, As Delta Day At The Delaware Capital.

TN HR132

Founders Day Celebration of the Montgomery Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, recognized, Cheryl W. Turner, honored

TN HR1011

Founders Day; 01/13/26; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; 113 Years of Service; recognize

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.