As we approach Christmas, I’m reminded once again of the values that make Tennessee such a remarkable place to call home. This time of year offers all of us an opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate the people who enrich our lives: our families, friends, neighbors, and communities. This holiday, I hope you enjoy the bright spirit of the season and I pray the weeks ahead bring you peace, joy and well deserved rest.

The holidays also serve as a natural transition into the start of a new legislative session. In January, the Tennessee General Assembly will return to Nashville to begin our work for the year. As always, my focus will remain on practical, thoughtful solutions to the issues that matter most to the people of our district: strengthening public safety, supporting education, protecting taxpayer dollars, improving health outcomes, and ensuring good stewardship of our state’s growth.

Each session brings its own challenges and opportunities. Tennessee continues to experience record economic development, growing infrastructure needs, and evolving demands on our health care and workforce systems. My goal, like always, is to approach each bill with common sense, civility, and a commitment to doing what is best for the people of Knox County. I also look forward to hearing from you. Your perspectives help guide my decisions and ensure that the state government stays grounded in the real needs of our communities. Please reach out to me at sen.richard.briggs@capitol.tn.gov or 615-741-1766 with any comments, questions or concerns.

Additionally, I encourage you to visit the Capitol during session to see firsthand how your state government works.

As we close out the year, I want to express my gratitude for the trust you place in me. Representing Knoxville in the State Senate is an honor I do not take lightly. I hope this season brings warmth to your home and renewed optimism for the year ahead.

From my family to yours, I wish you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season. I look forward to continuing our work together in 2026.