Senate adopts consent calendars, confirms memorials and passes several bills including transfer of Polk home

The Tennessee Senate used its Feb. 18 floor session to process a mix of ceremonial recognitions, committee reports and final‑action legislation.

The chamber adopted two consent calendars (memorials/congratulatory resolutions and general bills) by bell vote: Consent Calendar 1 was adopted (Ayes 32) and Consent Calendar 2 was adopted (Ayes 31). Senators also moved and adopted Senate Joint Resolution 296, a memorial for Diane Jordan of Knox County.

On substantive measures, the Senate passed on final consideration Senate Bill 599, which transfers the James K. Polk home in Columbia from the James K. Polk Association to the Tennessee Historical Commission so ownership and stewardship are consolidated; the bill passed as amended by a roll call vote of Ayes 30, Nays 2. Chairman Hensley said the transfer formalizes the historical commission's ownership of adjacent property and ensures maintenance continuity.

Senate Bill 15‑23, concerning the inmate disciplinary oversight board and sentencing credits and reflecting a two‑year extension recommended by a joint evaluation committee, passed on third and final consideration (Ayes 26, Nays 5). Several other bills were rolled at sponsors' requests for later consideration.

The clerk also reported that Governor Lee has submitted judicial appointments (including Kyle A. Hixson to the Tennessee Supreme Court and others to the Court of Appeals) for Senate confirmation; those nominees were reported to the Judiciary Committee for consideration.

The chamber concluded by adopting next week's schedule and adjourning until 4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23.