Senate Joint Resolution 7096, sponsored by Akbari, honors Debra G. Shults for her remarkable 41-year career in public service with the State of Tennessee, particularly within the Department of Environment and Conservation's Division of Radiological Health. Shults, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Health from East Tennessee State University, began her career as a health physicist inspector in 1982 and advanced to various leadership roles, including director of the division and primary emergency services coordinator. Her contributions have significantly impacted environmental monitoring, emergency response, and waste management in Tennessee.

In addition to her state service, Shults has been a prominent figure in national organizations, serving as commissioner and chair of the Southeast Compact Commission for Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management and holding positions on the Organization of Agreement States Executive Board. She has been recognized for her leadership and commitment to public service, including receiving the 2020 OAS Hall of Fame Award. The resolution expresses the General Assembly's heartfelt wishes for her retirement and acknowledges her role as a mentor and advocate for young women and scientists, reinforcing her legacy in public service.