Committee advances Father's Day observance to Tennessee Blue Book after debate over recital language

The committee voted Feb. 11 to advance House Bill 14 81, which would add the third Sunday in June as a day of special observance for Father's Day in the Tennessee Blue Book. Chairman Bolso, the bill's sponsor, said the substantive enactment would add the date while recitals would not become part of the Tennessee Code.

Several members voiced concerns about language in the bill’s 'whereas' clauses. Representative Powell described personal experience growing up without a father and asked why the recitals characterize fathers as the "leaders of our families," saying the phrasing could marginalize households where mothers were primary caregivers. Representative Salinas and others raised similar concerns, noting the language could be painful for people who lost fathers or never knew them.

The sponsor said he drew the language from the presidential proclamation for Father's Day in 2025 and did not intend to diminish the role of mothers. He also said the recitals would not be codified in the Tennessee Code if the bill is adopted. Representative Pyle and others asked the sponsor to consider revising the recitals to be more inclusive.

Following debate, the committee called the question and recorded 19 ayes and 2 present not voting; the bill was moved to calendar and rules.

What happens next: The bill will be placed on the calendar for further consideration; if enacted, the Tennessee Blue Book will list the third Sunday in June as a day of special observance for Father's Day.