Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

Tennessee House Bill HJR0932

Introduced
2/11/26  
Engrossed
2/19/26  
Enrolled
2/27/26  

Caption

A RESOLUTION to honor and recognize the contributions of Prison Fellowship.

Impact

This resolution does not create new laws but serves to acknowledge and commend the work done by Prison Fellowship, particularly its efforts to provide spiritual support and practical programs that facilitate personal accountability, mental health improvement, and successful reintegration into society. The underlying aim is to ensure that faith-based initiatives can continue to flourish within the prison system, potentially leading to more rehabilitated individuals upon their release. By commending these efforts, the resolution may influence public perception and policy discussions related to prison reform and rehabilitation programs.

Summary

HJR0932 is a resolution that honors and recognizes the contributions of Prison Fellowship, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving prisoners, former prisoners, and their families. Founded in 1976 by Charles Colson, the organization advocates for the religious liberty of incarcerated individuals, promoting faith practices within correctional settings. The resolution highlights the proven benefits of such programs, including significant reductions in recidivism rates, as evidenced by evaluations conducted by various entities including the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and Baylor University.

Contention

While the resolution is largely supportive, there could be varying opinions regarding the involvement of faith-based organizations in correctional practices. Some may argue that prioritizing religious programs in prisons could conflict with the secular nature of the state and could raise concerns about the separation of church and state. However, proponents of the resolution argue that such programs are instrumental in reducing recidivism and enhancing the overall safety and wellbeing of the prison environment. The debate highlights the broader conversation around the effectiveness and appropriateness of religious rehabilitation programs in public institutions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TN HJR0847

A RESOLUTION to affirm the importance of religious liberty protections for incarcerated individuals under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act of 2000 (RLUIPA) and to recognize the contributions of Prison Fellowship.

TN SC529

Recognize Anniversary of "Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act" and Prison Fellowship.

TN HJR0250

A RESOLUTION to honor and commend John Jones for his contributions to the State of Tennessee.

TN SR123

A resolution recognizing the contributions of the Charles B. Rangel Graduate Fellowship Program, the Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program, the William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship, and the Donald M. Payne International Development Graduate Fellowship Program in advancing the national security and the development and diplomacy efforts of the United States.

TN SR3

Resolution; recognizing the vital contributions of Oklahoma state employees and honoring their service to the state.

TN SR3

Resolution; recognizing the vital contributions of Oklahoma state employees and honoring their service to the state.

TN HJR0251

A RESOLUTION to recognize and honor Marjorie Ann Bowser "Marjie" Mahar.

TN HJR0297

A RESOLUTION to recognize and honor Marjorie Ann Bowser "Marjie" Mahar.

TN HJR0132

A RESOLUTION to honor and recognize Raul Lopez and Men of Valor.

TN HJR0687

A RESOLUTION to honor and commend Dr. William E. Arnold, Jr., for his contributions to the State of Tennessee.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.