Senate Floor Session [Source] Translate

The meeting began with Senator Kedron welcoming former Senator Bill Ketron, who has recently recovered from cancer. Senator Crowe inquired about Jim Tracy's health, and Senator Ketron reported that Tracy's tumor has remained stable. Tracy is scheduled for surgery and a clinical trial in Pittsburgh, and a prayer for his health was offered by Senator Reeves. Pastor Landon Shelby led the Senate in prayer, focusing on unity and service to Tennessee, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. A roll call confirmed 32 members present, establishing a quorum. Senate Bills 2689 through 2697 and House Bills 169, 1598, and 1622 were introduced and passed on first consideration, along with Senate Joint Resolutions 699 through 808 and Senate Resolutions 292 through 294. Senator Seale presented Senate Resolution 294, honoring Mr. Robert Gardenhier's retirement, which was adopted without objection. Senator Pote introduced two guests named Hillary, who were welcomed by the Senate. The consent calendar of memorializing and congratulating resolutions was presented by Senator Powers and adopted, including resolutions honoring Representative Deborah Moody, Natalie Haslam, and Dexter Justice, with moments of silence for the deceased. Senator Ackberry requested to add all members to a resolution honoring the late Representative Tommy Brown, which was adopted. The meeting proceeded with the introduction of Consent Calendar 2, adopted without objection. Senate Bill 1569, introduced by Senator White, was moved for third and final consideration. An amendment clarifying electronic notification of educational opportunities for inmates was adopted. The bill mandates an education assessment for inmates serving felony offenses at intake and annually thereafter, passing with 32 votes in favor and no opposition. Senator Yarbrough addressed Senate Bill 918, proposing to conform and substitute it with House Bill 940. Several amendments were discussed, including the withdrawal of Amendment No. 2 and the adoption of Amendment No. 3, which changed a date to 2027. House Bill 940 raises the age for operating personal watercraft from 12 to 14 on weekends and holidays for safety reasons, passing with 27 votes in favor and 4 against. Senator Yarbrough acknowledged Nancy Carroll Mill and Rick Heron in the gallery, honoring the memory of former Senator Roy Herron. Leader Johnson introduced Senate Joint Resolution 558, commending the GAP26 prayer initiative, which passed with 28 votes in favor and 2 against. Chairman Watson reported on the completion of the first week of budget hearings and announced upcoming meetings, including an economic presentation from the University of Tennessee. Chairman Briggs reminded members of the amendment filing deadline for the Liquor by the Drink Omnibus Bill, while Chairman Massey announced deadlines for license plate and road bridge naming amendments and a TDOT breakfast event. Chairman Jackson announced a meeting of the Joint Government Operations Committee and a gathering of the Sons of the American Revolution. Leader Ackberry highlighted the upcoming day on the Hill for Lemo and Owen College, encouraging members to welcome attendees. Leader Johnson presented the proposed schedule for the following week, noting the observance of President's Day. The Senate adjourned until 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026.