Regional Industry & News

Tennessee senator proposes dedicating Sept. 25 ‘9 to 5 Day’ in honor of Dolly Parton

Tennessee State Senator Jessie Seal, a republican representing New Tazewell, is proposing legislation to dedicate Sept. 25, aka 9/25, “9 to 5 Day” in honor of Dolly Parton.

What This Story Is About

- A Tennessee state senator is proposing legislation to dedicate Sept. 25, aka 9/25, “9 to 5 Day” in honor of Dolly Parton.

Why It Matters

- Dolly was well-known for philanthropic acts, like establishing her Imagination Library, which delivers free books to children under 5.

What Happens Next

- The legislation will be considered during next year’s session, which begins on Jan. 12, just a week before Dolly’s birthday.

For Context

- Dolly’s family shared the news of her death Tuesday. Later, it was confirmed she had died after a brief battle with cancer.

Catch Up

- In the day that’s followed the announcement of her death, East Tennessee’s queen has seen an outpouring of love and support from all over the world.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Tennessee State Senator Jessie Seal, a republican representing New Tazewell, is proposing legislation to dedicate Sept. 25, aka 9/25, “9 to 5 Day” in honor of Dolly Parton.

“Dolly will go down as one of the most legendary Tennesseans of all time,” Seal said. “Not only will her music stand the test of time, but so will her legacy of faith and kindness. She embodied the true Volunteer State spirit like no other. While every day is a fitting day to honor Dolly, ‘9 to 5 Day’ will give Tennesseans an opportunity each year to set aside a little extra time to listen to one of her most iconic songs and reflect on the once-in-a-century legend.”

The legislation will be considered during next year’s session, which begins on Jan. 12, just a week before Dolly’s birthday. Earlier in 2026, Gov. Bill Lee designated that day — Jan. 19, 2026 — Dolly Parton Day to honor the country legend’s 80th birthday.

Dolly’s family shared the news of her death Tuesday. Later, it was confirmed she had died after a brief battle with cancer.

In the day that’s followed the announcement of her death, East Tennessee’s queen has seen an outpouring of love and support from all over the world. It’s no secret why; alongside her talent for music, Dolly was well-known for philanthropic acts, like establishing her Imagination Library, which delivers free books to children under 5.