(NASHVILLE) — House members have unanimously passed a resolution sponsored by State Representative Mike Sparks (R-Smyrna) that recognizes Tennessee’s fatherless epidemic.
Senate Joint Resolution 108 urges resolution of societal problems stemming from fatherless homes and divorce. The measure encourages religious institutions, community, and government agencies, as well as elected leaders to partner together in an effort to break the cycle of societal issues involving children who come from homes with no fathers.
Research indicates that 63 percent of youth suicides are committed by fatherless children. Approximately 90 percent of all homeless and runaway children are from homes with no fathers. Seventy-one percent of all high school dropouts do not have fathers present in their lives.
A CNN list of the 27 Deadliest Mass Shootings in U.S. History also confirms that seven shootings have been committed by young males since 2005. Further research suggests that six of the seven were raised without their biological father present throughout childhood.
“This initiative calls attention to an issue in our state that does not attract a great deal of attention but is critical to Tennessee’s future success,” said Representative Sparks. “Together, I know we can create environments where our next generation of leaders are supported and loved. This will allow them to achieve their goals and dreams in life.”
For more information about Senate Joint Resolution 108, please click here.
Mike Sparks serves as Vice-Chair of the House Calendar & Rules Committee. He is also a member of the House Insurance & Banking and House Business & Utilities Committees, as well as the House Business & Utilities Subcommittee. Sparks lives in Smyrna and represents House District 49, which includes part of Rutherford County. He can be reached by email at [email protected] or by calling (615) 741-6829.