Formal Statement on Sober Living Facilities in Dickson County

Sober living facilities play an important role in supporting individuals who are working to overcome addiction and rebuild their lives. When operated responsibly, these facilities provide a structured, supportive environment that promotes accountability, recovery, and a successful transition back into the community.

However, in Dickson County and across Tennessee, sober living facilities have largely been left unregulated and allowed to expand without local oversight. What began as a compassionate idea, often located in residential neighborhoods, has grown beyond the ability of city and county officials to manage. The Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act require sober living facilities to be treated as single-family residences, effectively nullifying local zoning authority.

This is why state law must change. While the recent passage of HB1351 / SB1240 (Recovery Residence Certification Standards) established a voluntary certification process, the legislation contains no enforcement measures, inspections, penalties, or even requirements for local notice. This is insufficient! Our county and municipal governments need the ability to exercise meaningful oversight to ensure the safety, accountability, and transparency of these facilities.

The passage of HB783 / SB1381, which created a pilot program allowing Hamilton County to regulate sober living facilities near schools and daycares, demonstrates that a commonsense approach is possible. This framework provides added protections for families and neighborhoods. The question remains: why was Dickson County not included in this effort? Our community deserves the same tools and protections as others across the state.

I support reform that balances the need for recovery resources with the responsibility to protect neighborhoods, schools, and families. By empowering local governments with proper oversight, we can maintain compassion for those in recovery while safeguarding the quality of life in our communities.

John Louallen Stands with Tennessee Guard Members by Supporting Defend the Guard Act

Pegram, TN – John Louallen, Republican candidate for Tennessee House of Representatives District 78, announced his strong support for House Bill 0129, known as the Defend the Guard Act. This legislation protects Tennessee National Guard members from being deployed into foreign combat zones without a clear and constitutional authorization from the U.S. Congress.

The bill requires that before the Tennessee National Guard can be deployed into active-duty combat, Congress must either formally declare war or take explicit constitutional action to call forth the Guard. Importantly, the bill does not affect the Guard’s ability to respond to domestic emergencies here at home.

“As your representative, I will always stand up for the men and women of the Tennessee National Guard,” said Louallen. “They sign up to serve our state and our nation, and they deserve to know that their sacrifices will never be taken for granted or used without proper constitutional authority. This bill reinforces the rule of law, protects our Guard members, and ensures Tennesseans come first.”

Louallen emphasized that the Defend the Guard Act reflects his broader campaign commitment to conservative values: defending the Constitution, protecting individual freedoms, and ensuring government accountability.

“This is about honoring our commitment to those who serve,” Louallen continued. “Decisions of war and peace must be made the right way — through Congress, as the Constitution demands. That’s how we protect both our citizens and the integrity of our Republic.

The Defend the Guard Act will take effect immediately upon becoming law.

Louallen Opposes Appeal of Court Ruling Protecting Second Amendment Rights

Pegram, TN – John Louallen, Republican candidate for Tennessee House of Representatives District 78, today issued a formal statement opposing Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti’s decision to appeal the recent Chancery Court ruling in Hughes v. Bill Lee.

The three-judge panel held that Tennessee’s “intent to go armed” and “parks” statutes are unconstitutional, recognizing that such provisions impermissibly infringe upon the rights guaranteed under the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution.

“The panel’s ruling reaffirmed a fundamental principle: the right to keep and bear arms is not a privilege to be regulated at will, but a constitutional guarantee that must be preserved,” said Louallen. “By appealing this decision, the Attorney General is not defending the Constitution but rather prolonging the enforcement of laws that violate the liberties of Tennesseans.”

Louallen underscored the importance of legislative leadership in safeguarding constitutional rights.

“It is the duty of legislators to uphold and defend the rights of the citizens they serve,” Louallen stated. “I am disappointed that more members of the General Assembly have not publicly supported this ruling and expressed opposition to the appeal. The citizens of Cheatham and Dickson Counties deserve representation that will not waiver when their constitutional freedoms are at stake.”

If elected, Louallen pledged to work toward the full realization of constitutional carry in Tennessee and to resist any attempt to undermine the protections afforded by the United States and Tennessee Constitutions.

John Louallen Affirms Support for Food Freedom Act and Expansion of Cottage Food Law

(Pegram, TN) — John Louallen, candidate for the Tennessee House of Representatives, District 78, has formally expressed his support for the Food Freedom Act of 2022 and House Bill 130, legislation that safeguards and expands the rights of Tennesseans to produce and sell homemade food items.

The Food Freedom Act affirms the right of individuals to sell goods such as breads, candies, jams, honey, and pastries. House Bill 130 further strengthens these freedoms by expanding the Cottage Food Law to include products such as poultry and dairy.

“The Food Freedom Act and its expansion through House Bill 130 are critical and a great start in ensuring that Tennesseans maintain the right to provide for their families and communities without undue government interference,” Louallen stated. “This legislation supports small producers, encourages entrepreneurship, and strengthens the fabric of our local communities.”

Louallen emphasized that protecting these freedoms is not only a matter of economic opportunity but also a commitment to preserving Tennessee’s values of independence and self-reliance.

“As a legislator, I will continue to stand for policies that uphold our freedoms and empower Tennesseans to thrive,” Louallen affirmed.

John Louallen Assists The 917 Society in Distributing Pocket Constitutions to Local Agencies

Cheatham & Dickson Counties, TN – John Louallen, candidate for the Tennessee House of Representatives, District 78, had the privilege of assisting The 917 Society in distributing pocket Constitutions to local law enforcement and first responder agencies across Cheatham and Dickson Counties.

The 917 Society is dedicated to its mission of educating students and communities on the importance of the United States Constitution and the freedoms it guarantees to all Americans. By placing these resources directly into the hands of those who serve and protect, the effort underscores the vital role of constitutional understanding in civic life.

“It was an honor to support The 917 Society in their mission,” Louallen said. “Our Constitution is the foundation of our freedoms and ensuring that both our students and community leaders have access to this resource helps preserve the values that make our nation strong.”

John Louallen Serves as Guest Speaker at Leadership Cheatham County Opening Reception

Ashland City, TN – August 15, 2025 – John Louallen, candidate for the Tennessee House of Representatives, District 78, was honored to be the guest speaker at the opening reception for Leadership Cheatham County’s Class of 2026. The event was held at the Hampton Inn in Ashland City.

Leadership Cheatham County provides participants with valuable opportunities to develop their leadership skills, broaden their understanding of community issues, and prepare to serve in roles that strengthen Cheatham County’s future.

“The Class of 2026 has an exciting journey ahead of them,” said Louallen. “Programs like Leadership Cheatham County play a vital role in cultivating the next generation of leaders who will shape the direction of our communities.”

John Louallen Announces Candidacy for Tennessee House of Representatives, District 78

Today, I am honored to announce my candidacy for the Tennessee House of Representatives, District 78. As a passionate advocate for the values that define our community, I am committed to bringing a fresh and innovative perspective to our state legislature.

I fully understand the challenges our district faces, as well as the opportunities before us. What we need is leadership that is both strong and compassionate. Leaders who truly listen to the concerns of working families, small business owners, and the next generation of Tennesseans. I am running to ensure our voices are heard in Nashville, and that District 78 receives the attention and resources it deserves.

With an unwavering dedication to transparency, accountability, and conservative principles, I will work tirelessly to represent the people of our district. My campaign will be rooted in Christian values, family traditions, and a steadfast commitment to securing a brighter future for our community.

Over the coming months, I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible, listening to your concerns, and sharing my vision for a better Tennessee. Your voices will guide my actions in the State House, and together, we will ensure that District 78, and our great state of Tennessee, thrive.