Committee advances resolution designating March 12, 2026, as 'Be the 1 to End Suicide Day'

The House Naming & Designating Committee voted 7-0 on March 9 to send Senate Joint Resolution 592, designating March 12, 2026, as "Be the 1 to End Suicide Day," to the Health Committee with a positive recommendation.

Representative Hicks, the resolution sponsor, said the measure recognizes the American Legion's "Be the 1" initiative and urged members to support awareness and training across Tennessee's 95 counties. He cited national and state data, saying, "Across our nation, approximately 22 veterans die by suicide every single day," and that Tennessee's suicide rate is "14.7 percent higher than the national average according to the Tennessee Department of Health." He asked members for "favorable consideration of H SJR 5 92."

The sponsor framed the resolution as an awareness and outreach effort aimed at encouraging community members to intervene when someone is struggling: "Be the 1 who reaches out. Be the 1 who listens. Be the 1 who helps save a life," he said. Representative Fritz, who identified himself as adjutant of American Legion Post 50 in Rockwood, voiced support for the measure during the committee exchange.

After a brief period for questions and comments, the clerk opened the roll and reported the result: "you have 7 ayes and 0 no's." The chair announced that SJR0592 "moves out to the Health Committee with a positive recommendation." The resolution does not establish new funding or a new program; it designates a day for awareness and encourages public and private organizations to promote training and the 988 crisis hotline.

The committee's action advances the measure to the Health Committee, where any further amendments, debate, or committee action would occur before the resolution could reach the full chamber.