Bill > HJR0508

This resolution honors The Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee on its 30th anniversary, recognizing its significant role as the largest sanctuary in North America providing refuge for retired performance and exhibition elephants. Located in Hohenwald, Tennessee, the sanctuary spans over 3,060 acres with three protected natural habitats and currently houses a dozen elephant residents. The resolution highlights the sanctuary's contributions, including providing lifetime care for elephants from circuses and zoos, employing 50 staff members in Lewis County, and offering educational opportunities through its Discovery Center. The document specifically acknowledges two key contributors to the sanctuary's success: Lois C. Knight, who has been involved since its inception in volunteer and outreach roles, and Dr. William Schaffner, who has served as an advisor and board member, helping shape the facility's health and safety protocols. The resolution commends the sanctuary for creating expansive habitats that allow elephants to engage in natural behaviors and for its broader impact on the local community by providing career and educational opportunities. By passing this resolution, the Tennessee House of Representatives and Senate formally recognize and celebrate the sanctuary's three decades of dedicated elephant care and conservation.

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HJR0508&ga=114