Rosalind Kurita steps down from interim state Senate seat

With a new state senator elected for District 22 on Tuesday, state Sen. Rosalind Kurita, I-Clarksville, was honored by the Tennessee General Assembly on Monday for representing Montgomery, Stewart and Houston counties as interim.  

Kurita, who previously served in the Senate from 1996 to 2008, was appointed by the Montgomery County Commission in January to fill the unexpired term of U.S. Rep. Mark Green until the special election could be held. 

Republican Bill Powers won the seat Tuesday in a special election.

“Rosalind Kurita’s record of service in the Senate has been exemplary,” said Lt. Gov. Randy McNally in a news release. “From her first 12 years to the last few months, she has been a pleasure to work with and a fighter for her constituents. I appreciate greatly her service to the state of Tennessee and wish her well in the future.”

Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, R-Franklin, commended Kurita for stepping up to the task the helm quickly upon her appointment, providing practical and informed perspectives on healthcare issues and other key matters.  

“Senator Kurita is smart. She is dedicated, works hard and fights fiercely for her constituents and issues that she is passionate about,” Johnson said.  

Among legislation sponsored by Kurita this year was a proposal to create a mechanism that will help Montgomery County build an event center using captured sales tax revenue.

Kurita worked with her Montgomery County colleagues to move the bill through the General Assembly. The measure has passed the Senate and awaits approval in the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

“I very much appreciate the opportunity to serve my fellow citizens in this capacity,” said Kurita said.