Tennessee House recognizes Scopes centennial and swimmer Raleigh Gaines as session advances multiple bills

The Tennessee House of Representatives began its floor session with ceremonial recognitions, then moved into legislative business, advancing a series of bills and resolutions.

Representative Ron Travis introduced a resolution commemorating the centennial of the 1925 Scopes trial in Dayton, Tennessee, saying the trial “placed faith and science at the center of the public mind and conversation” and invited constituents and visitors to the courthouse centennial events in Dayton. Ashley Howe, executive director of the Tennessee State Museum, told the chamber the State Museum will present a companion exhibition, Scopes at 100, this summer. Several Ray County officials and representatives of local historical groups attended in the gallery and were recognized from the well.

Later in the morning Representative Garret honored Raleigh (Riley) Gaines of Sumner County with a resolution recognizing her athletic achievements and public advocacy. Gaines, who addressed the chamber, said it was “an honor to be here, as a lifelong and very proud Tennessean,” and urged continued legislative attention to issues she described as affecting women’s sports.

After the presentations the House handled a steady flow of bills. Sponsors and committee chairs described the measures briefly on the floor before votes. Among measures taken up were:

- Senate Bill 1388 (substituted for a House bill): a measure to expand opportunities for vocational rehabilitation customers and blind vendors to operate…