Tennessee House Bill HJR0024

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23

Caption

A RESOLUTION to honor James K. Polk and commemorate the placement of his tomb on the capitol grounds.

Impact

The resolution also addresses controversies that have emerged regarding the potential relocation of President Polk's remains, particularly a proposal introduced in 2017 that sparked a national debate. This debate involved questions about the sanctity of presidential burial sites and the ownership of the remains of historical figures. The resolution serves to reaffirm the importance of keeping President Polk's final resting place undisturbed, establishing the Capitol grounds as an appropriate site for public recognition of his contributions.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 24 (HJR0024) seeks to honor President James K. Polk by commemorating the placement of his tomb on the grounds of the Tennessee State Capitol. The resolution acknowledges President Polk as an influential leader who served as the 11th President of the United States and whose legacy remains significant to the State of Tennessee. The bill outlines the history surrounding Polk's burial, including the decision to inter his remains at their current location, where he has been honored for nearly 130 years.

Contention

One notable point of contention revolves around the debate regarding the preservation of President Polk's burial site amid proposals to move it. Advocates for maintaining his gravesite at the Capitol emphasize its historical significance and connection to the state, while critics of any proposed relocations argue it may misrepresent historical facts and events. The resolution aims to settle these disputes by celebrating the current location as a protected historical landmark, thereby allowing the public to appreciate Polk's life and service without disruption.