(NASHVILLE) February 23,  2024, This week, the Senate advanced three proposals aimed at amending the Tennessee Constitution.

Giving judges more discretion to deny bail for violent crimes

Republicans in the Senate Judiciary Committee approved a new proposal from Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) to expand judges’ ability to deny bail for certain violent crimes when it is in the best interest of public safety. Current law limits judges’ ability to deny bail to first-degree murder charges. If ratified by voters, Senate Joint Resolution 919 would allow judges to deny bail for those charged with violent offenses of terrorism, second-degree murder, aggravated rape and grave torture. It would also allow judges to deny bail for violent offenses that would require the defendant, if convicted, to serve at least 85 percent of their entire sentence under the state’s Truth in Sentencing law.

“Expanding the option for a judge to deny bail for violent offenders will help maintain law and order by demonstrating that acts of violence will be met with strict consequences and accountability,” said Johnson. “It will also help protect victims and the general public by keeping certain defendants who pose a threat to others in police custody. Judges should be able to use their discretion to make these decisions in the best interest of their communities.”

Under the measure, judges could only deny bail when the proof is evident, or the presumption of guilt is great. It also would require judges to place into the record the reason for denying bail.

The resolution now advances to the Senate floor to be read and voted on by the full Senate.

 

Prohibiting a state property tax

The Judiciary Committee also advanced another proposed constitutional amendment which would prohibit a state property tax. Tennessee has not had a state property tax since 1949, and House Joint Resolution 81, sponsored by Sen. Frank Niceley (R-Strawberry Plains) seeks to ensure that one can never be implemented by a future General Assembly.

“Tennessee used to operate solely with a state property tax and had no sales tax,” said Niceley. “That changed in 1949, when Governor McWherter helped pass a state sales tax for education and reduced the state property tax to zero. This constitutional amendment would protect Tennessee taxpayers by entirely eliminating the option for a state property tax to ever be imposed on Tennesseans again.”

The resolution was passed by the House of Representatives in the 2023 legislative session. It now advances to the Senate floor to be considered by the full Senate for the first time.

 

Marsy’s Law

A constitutional amendment to guarantee victims of crime have clear and enforceable rights passed the full senate this week to fulfill the first of two required passages before going to voters. House Joint Resolution 94, sponsored by Sen. John Stevens (R-Huntingdon) would add Marsy’s Law to the Tennessee Constitution to support crime victims and prevent further trauma. It aims to give constitutional protections to victims, including the right to be heard, the right to be informed, and the right to be treated with fairness, dignity, and respect through the judicial process.

The resolution was passed by the House of Representatives in the 2023 legislative session.

In order to ratify the constitution, a constitutional amendment must pass the general assembly twice. The first time it must pass with a simple majority voting in favor. The second time it must pass the next General Assembly by a two-thirds majority.  Finally, the amendment would become part of the state constitution if the number of yes votes are equal to a majority of the total votes in the gubernatorial election.

 

Removing vaccine requirements for families that adopt and foster children

This week, the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced legislation aimed at increasing the number of Tennessee families eligible to adopt and foster children. It safeguards the rights of families to adopt or foster without facing mandates regarding specific vaccinations.

Senate Bill 2359, sponsored by Senator Bo Watson (R-Hixson), prohibits the Department of Children’s Services from mandating certain vaccines as a condition of adopting or caring for a foster child. The bill eliminates discrimination while also providing more children with homes in Tennessee.

“The current law disqualifies families from fostering and/or adopting a child in state care based on their immunization status, which is discriminatory and unfair,” said Watson. “We should encourage not hinder good, loving families who desire to foster and/or adopt these babies. This legislation reflects Tennessee’s core family values and commitment to ensuring children have the chance to thrive in a supportive family environment.

The bill passed the Senate Judiciary Committee and awaits final consideration by the full Senate.

 

Lawmakers seek to prohibit taxpayer-funded ransomware payments

A Republican proposal advanced in the Senate State and Local Government Committee this week which would ensure taxpayer funds are not on the hook for ransom payments to cyber criminals holding sensitive and private data hostage.

Senate Bill 1825, sponsored by Senator Bo Watson (R-Hixson), would prohibit all state entities from contracting, negotiating with or paying an individual or entity that is a known system hacker. The proposed legislation instructs state entities to immediately notify and consult with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation in the case of a cyber-attack.

“This legislation will put cyber criminals on notice to not target Tennessee,” said Watson. “Not only is it bad economic practice to pay ransom to cyber attackers, but it also emboldens criminals and encourages further abuse.”

Cybercriminals have increasingly targeted U.S. federal and state government agencies around the nation in recent years, attacking critical emergency alert systems and stealing citizens’ private data. The disruptions are costly and recovery of data is challenging.

Ransomware is a type of malware designed to encrypt files on a device or computer, rendering them and their connected systems unusable, according to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), an arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The agency launched stopransomeware.gov in 2023 to help organizations reduce their risk of ransomware.

 

Legislation advances to hold parents accountable for child’s delinquent actions

Senator Brent Taylor (R-Memphis) is sponsoring the Parent Accountability Act aimed at creating accountability for parents with delinquent children. Under the legislation, judges would have the discretion to fine parents or guardians instead of the child for their delinquent actions after their first offense.

“This bill is designed to incentivize parents to pay closer attention to their children,” said Taylor. “This restitution order could help prevent more victims of crimes because of parents taking more control of their kids.”

If the parent is unable to pay the fine, community service is an alternative option. Senate Bill 2571 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee this week and advances to the Senate Finance Committee.

 

Increasing transparency in juvenile courts

Senator Page Walley (R-Savannah) is sponsoring legislation that promotes more transparency in the juvenile court system. Senate Bill 2059 requires the Administrative Office of the Courts to submit reports on juvenile courts that are noncompliant with statewide data collection requirements. These annual reports would list each court that is not in compliance, the date of the noncompliance, and what could be done for the court to be back in compliance.

“It’s important for the legislature, the Department of Children’s Services, and all of us that seek to provide resources and manage these kinds of situations to know what is really happening,” said Walley. “This will help encourage compliance with data reporting and ensure we have the most accurate data regarding delinquency offenses across the state.”

The bill passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday and awaits final consideration from the full Senate.

 

Legislation to prohibit political flags in classrooms advances

A Republican bill to keep controversial or political flags out of the classroom advanced out of the Senate Education Committee this week.

Senate Bill 1722, sponsored by Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald) would prohibit certain flags from being displayed in public schools.

“At public schools, students should be focused on learning academic skills and not be distracted by displays of political beliefs that might go against the values their parents are teaching at home. This legislation aims to keep political or controversial distractions out of the classroom by ensuring flags that espouse certain viewpoints or values are not displayed in school.”

The bill specifically lays out the flags that would be allowed to be displayed in schools such as those with local, state, national, world and historical significance. In addition to the Tennessee and United States flags, other flags that would be allowed include military flags, government flags, foreign country flags and flags used temporarily for course curriculums.

The legislation would also allow parents to take civil action against a school if it refuses to act within 10 days of receiving a written notice regarding a potential violation of the law. The bill now advances to the Senate floor for a vote by the full Senate.

 

Empowering parents in their child’s education: On Wednesday, the Senate Education Committee advanced legislation sponsored by Senator Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun) to empower parents to have the final say over education decisions for their child. Senate Bill 1688 allows parents and guardians to hold back their child from the next grade without the approval of the school board if their child has a learning or behavioral delay. The bill advances to the Senate floor for final consideration.

 

Protecting schools and preparing teachers: As school safety continues to be a top priority for Tennessee lawmakers, legislators are working hard to ensure all school staff, including substitute teachers, are equipped with the training necessary to protect their students. On Wednesday, the Senate Education Committee advanced SB 2652 sponsored by Senator Dawn White (R-Murfreesboro) which would require school safety training for incoming substitute teachers. The bill now moves forward for approval on the Senate floor.

 

Requiring carbon monoxide detectors in daycares: To ensure the safety of children in childcare facilities across Tennessee, Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta) is sponsoring legislation that would require childcare facilities in Tennessee to have carbon monoxide detectors installed in every room.  The legislation follows an incident at a childcare facility that resulted in the building being evacuated due to high carbon monoxide levels. The facility did not have carbon monoxide detectors and many children were exposed to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Senate Bill 2066 will help prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure children do not suffer the long-term effects of carbon monoxide poisoning. The bill passed the Senate Health and Welfare Committee and advances to the Senate floor for final consideration.

 

Reports of animal abuse: Senate Bill 1957, sponsored by Senator Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin), will allow veterinarians in Tennessee to report suspected animal cruelty and testify in judicial proceedings regarding that animal’s care without violating veterinarian-client-patient confidentiality. A veterinarian would also have immunity from any breach of confidentiality under this legislation if they are acting in good faith reporting the suspected abuse. The bill awaits final consideration on the Senate floor.

 

Expediting development processes: Tennessee has experienced a construction boom in recent decades, since becoming such a popular destination for businesses and people to move. As a result, the construction permitting and inspection process is facing a significant backlog. To reduce development costs and streamline construction projects for Tennesseans, Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2100  which would allow a third party examiner, inspector, engineer, or professional to inspect certain processes. Currently, all processes must be inspected by a state or local examiner, which delays construction projects when none are available. The bill passed Commerce and Labor on Tuesday and now awaits approval on the Senate floor.

 

Print Disability Absentee Voting Act: In an effort to increase voter participation among those with print disability, Senator Becky Massey (R-Knoxville) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2118 which will direct the coordinator of elections to make absentee ballots more accessible to voters who are blind and those with other print disabilities. Print disability is defined as a disability that interferes with a person’s ability to read, write, or use printed materials.

The Senate State and Local Government Committee heard testimony from an individual with print disability who described that due to his disability and accessibility of voting in Tennessee, he was not able to vote in private or keep his vote confidential. Every individual has the right to a private vote, and with the Print Disability Absentee Voting Act, individuals with print disability will have more access to privacy and confidentiality while voting.

 

Election integrity for administrator of elections: Senate Bill 1768, sponsored by Senator Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol), would impact an individual from serving as an administrator of elections in Tennessee who has a family member qualifying as a candidate for public office. The legislation would require an administrator of elections to temporarily step down from the position at least 30 days prior to an election if an immediate family member was on the ballot in the county they serve. The legislation passed the Senate State and Local Government Committee this week.

 

Social Work Licensure Compact: To increase access to quality social workers, Senator Page Walley (R-Savannah) is sponsoring Senate Bill 2134 to establish the Social Work Licensure Compact. The legislation, which passed the Senate Government Operations Committee this week, seeks to enable social workers who are qualified to work in other states participating in the compact to work in Tennessee. Two states have already ratified the Compact. This legislation puts the framework in place for the compact to go into effect when seven states ratify the Compact.

 

Support for parents: On Tuesday, the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced legislation sponsored by Senator Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin) that would expand parents’ right to video call their child when in the custody of the other parent. Senate Bill 2744 ensures parents get face-to-face contact with their child at least twice a week according to their parenting plan. This bill advances to the Senate floor.

 

Support for development districts – Legislation sponsored by Senator Ken Yager (R-Kingston) would increase funding to the nine development districts across Tennessee. These development districts have many responsibilities, some of which include planning functions for rural counties and promoting economic development. Senate Bill 2341 advanced out of the Senate State and Local Government Committee to the Senate Finance Committee.

 

Advocacy for children with trauma:  Legislation sponsored by Senator Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin) would allow courts to add trauma-informed education as a requirement in a parenting plan when children have been removed from their homes in cases of dependency or neglect.

“Children that have experienced trauma can suffer from learning problems, lower grades and a variety of other problems,” said Sen. Haile. “This legislation will provide the necessary training to help children succeed in life.”

Senate Bill 613 passed the Judiciary Committee and advances to the Senate floor for final consideration.

 

Updates to Length of Service Reward Program: Senate Bill 2331, sponsored by Senator Ken Yager makes changes to the Length of Service Reward Program (LOSAP). LOSAP allows participating local governments to receive state matching funds to provide financial rewards to volunteer firefighters and EMS workers as a way to encourage, recognize and retain their service. The bill removed the directive to administer the LOSAP grant on a first come, first serve basis. This change will allow employers to receive a prorated amount of grant funding. The bill also allows Treasury to use the LOSAP grant funds to pay for the administrative expenses associated with the program to ensure that the program costs are covered without raising participant fees. The legislation awaits final consideration on the Senate floor.

 

Supporting emergency transport services for TennCare recipients: Senator Page Walley (R-Savannah) is sponsoring legislation that benefits rural ambulance service providers. Under Senate Bill 2168, TennCare will be required to reimburse an ambulance service provider servicing TennCare patients at a rate no less than 100% of the program’s allowable charge for participating providers. In addition, the bill adds that for-profit ambulance services are eligible to receive emergency medical services equipment grants. The bill moves to the Senate floor for final consideration.

Another bill, sponsored by Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta), will require TennCare to reimburse a public or private air ambulance service that bills for transports to TennCare recipients at a rate not less than 67.5% of the federal medicare program’s allowable charge for participating providers. Senate Bill 2921 also passed out of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee and moves to the Senate Finance Committee.

 

Bills previously covered that passed the Senate floor this week:

• Senate Bill 287, sponsored by Senator Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin), adds the offense of statutory rape by an authority figure to the existing list of 13 offenses under the solicitation of a minor statute.
• Senate Bill 1681, sponsored by Senator Page Walley (R-Savannah), clarifies that local law enforcement agencies and local courts must be informed when a patient who lives in their jurisdiction is released from a psychiatric institution.
• Senate Bill 1711, sponsored by Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald), directs public K-12 schools and higher education institutions to adopt policies regarding the use of AI for students and staff for the 2024-2025 school year.
• Also by Senator Hensley, Senate Bill 1712 creates a mathematics expert review committee to evaluate and report on the landscape of mathematics instruction in Tennessee as well as identify professional development options available to improve instruction and student proficiency.
• Senate Bill 1968, sponsored by Senator Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville), prevents a person from running for two elected offices at the same time.
• SJR 870, sponsored by Senator Hensley, condemns the terrorist attacks Israel suffered on October 7, 2023.

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(NASHVILLE) February 15, 2024 – On Capitol Hill this week, Senate committees were in full swing.  In the first week of budget hearings from state departments and agencies, Senate committees approved eleven of sixty-three total budgets. Lawmakers also advanced many important bills to protect children, improve school safety and increase educational opportunities. 

Legislation advances to change fire alarm protocols for improved school safety

The Senate Education Committee this week voted unanimously to pass legislation requiring schools to determine the cause of a fire alarm before allowing children to leave their classrooms.

Senate Bill 1679, sponsored by Senate Speaker Pro Tem. Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin), is among several safety proposals filed in response to the Covenant School shooting in Nashville on March 27, 2023. 

On that tragic day, smoke from the shooter’s weapon triggered the school’s fire alarm. Unaware of the active shooter and in response to the alarm, one of the six victims, William Kinney, 9, was leading his third-grade classmates to safety as line leader when he was fatally shot by a former student of the school.  Kinney was the first to encounter the shooter in the hallway of the school.

“This is a simple bill, but an important one,” said Haile. “It has the potential to save lives if, God-forbid, there is another active shooter situation in one of our schools. I appreciate the committee’s support of this legislation and look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to guide its final passage.”

The legislation has passed the House of Representatives and now moves to the Senate floor for final approval before heading to the governor’s desk for his signature. 

Committee approves legislation to permanently fund Tennessee Promise Completion Grant  

This week, the Senate advanced legislation to make the tnAchieves COMPLETE Program a permanent part of the TN Promise scholarship to help low-income students complete college. The COMPLETE program started as a pilot project in Knox County in 2019 and has been a statewide pilot program since 2022. The program matches students with COMPLETE coaches and helps them in various areas like developing soft skills, goal setting and accessing grant funds. Students who are connected with a coach have access to $1,000 grants to aid students with costs outside of the TN Promise. 

Senate Bill 1783, sponsored by Education Chairman Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol), also identifies sustainable funding from Tennessee Sports Wagering revenue to make the program permanent. 

“This program is a proven way to ensure students complete their college education,” said Sen. Lundberg. “Prior to the launch of this program, only 32 percent of low-income students enrolled in TN Promise returned for their sophomore year. However, students participating in the COMPLETE program are 183 percent more likely to graduate than their peers.” 

The grant funds can help cover expenses like transportation, groceries, computers, supplies, and textbooks. The excess costs necessary to attend school can inhibit students from returning to complete their education. Statistics show that when students were introduced to a coach, the retention rate rose to 74 percent. When students received a coach and a grant, retention rose to 82 percent. 

The legislation passed the Senate Education Committee this week and awaits approval from the Senate Finance Committee. 

Support for Israel

This week, the Senate Finance Committee passed SJR 870, sponsored by Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald), to express strong support for Israel’s right to defend itself from the October 7, 2023, terror attacks on the Jewish nation. On that day, Hamas terrorists brutally murdered  1,200 Israeli civilians and took over 200 Israelis hostage. To this day, over 130 Israelis remain in captivity by Hamas in Gaza. Following the attack, Israel declared war against Hamas and has been defending its country and people since, vowing to end Hamas. 

“This resolution expresses support for the State of Israel and the Israeli people, condemns the violent events of October 7, 2023 and affirms Tennessee is an unequivocal supporter of Israel’s right to exist and defend itself against terror and threats,” said Sen. Hensley. “It expresses hope that Israel and its neighbors can live in freedom and peace with mutual recognition of dignity and autonomy.”

Israel has been a strong ally of the United States of America for over 75 years. Tennessee recognizes the importance of Israel and the value of sustained friendship. 

In brief…

Helping relative caregivers with children in their custody – The Senate Judiciary Committee approved legislation this week to make it easier for family members to care for children who have suffered parental neglect or abuse. Senate Bill 2071, sponsored by Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) and Senator Dawn White (R-Murfreesboro), makes changes to the Relative Caregiver Program which provides stipends to those who meet a certain income threshold to care for children in their family. Since the program’s inception in 2022, many interested families have not qualified for the stipend because they are over the income limit. This legislation removes that limit, opening eligibility to all families.  It also streamlines the court process for a family member to become eligible for the stipend by allowing eligibility for relative caregivers awarded custody by a court. Previously, a final custody order from Juvenile Court was required to receive the stipend, which was a burdensome and lengthy process. 

Removing barriers for state employees to become foster parents –  This week, the Senate State and Local Government Committee advanced legislation to improve and increase the number of foster homes in Tennessee. Under Senate Bill 1941, Senator Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin), state employees will not have to use their paid time off to complete the required training to become a foster parent. It is estimated that around 200 state employees will become foster parents at some point. The bill awaits final passage from the Senate floor.

Protecting children from sexual abuse – The Senate Finance Committee this week passed Senate Bill 287, also sponsored by Haile, to add continuous sexual abuse of a child to the list of offenses that require a defendant to have community supervision for life. In Tennessee, people convicted of continuous sexual abuse of a child are required to serve their entire term, which averages nearly 24 years. 

Data sharing among Child Protective Investigative Teams (CPIT) – Sen. Haile is also sponsoring legislation that will allow more timely and accurate information to be shared regarding children who have been abused, the services provided to them, and the outcome of their perpetrators. This bill codifies existing practice regarding information sharing within all statewide CPIT partners. Senate Bill 1586 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee this week and awaits final consideration from the Senate. 

Increasing access to life-changing testing for children with rare disorders –  On Tuesday, the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee passed a bill sponsored by Senator Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville) allowing TennCare to cover medical expenses for genetic testing to identify treatments for children with rare diseases. According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders, over 7,000 such conditions exist, predominantly affecting children, with 80% stemming from genetic origins. Senate Bill 1762 offers hope to families by easing the financial burdens of identifying and treating a rare disease. It would allow parents to access testing that could streamline the diagnosis process and potentially save a child’s life. The bill now advances in the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee. 

Increasing credit for work-based learning – The Senate Education Committee advanced legislation on Wednesday to increase the number of available credit hours for high school work-based learning programs from a yearly maximum of three to six. Senate Bill 1853, sponsored by Education Committee Chairman Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol), also clarifies that a student needs a minimum of five hours a week of supervised work experience to receive each credit. In other words, if a student takes three credits in the fall semester and three credits in the spring, that student would need a minimum of 15 hours on a worksite each week. Currently, seniors can receive credit for their work experience in the first semester, but not in the second. This bill would fix that so seniors enrolled in work-based learning programs are receiving full credit for their work.

Policies for AI in higher education – The Senate Education Committee this week advanced legislation seeking to address the current and future disruptions of artificial intelligence in the classroom. Senate Bill 1711, sponsored by Sen. Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald), directs public K-12 schools and higher education institutions to adopt policies regarding the use of AI for students and staff for the 2024-2025 school year. The bill also encourages higher education institutions to collaborate on the policies. 

The Mathematics Support Act – To improve proficiency in math for Tennessee students, the Senate Education Committee approved legislation to strengthen educator preparation for mathematics instruction.  Senate Bill 1712, sponsored by Sen. Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald), creates a mathematics expert review committee to evaluate and report on the landscape of mathematics instruction in Tennessee as well as identify professional development options available to improve instruction and student proficiency. The Department of Education must also approve at least one standards-aligned mathematics professional development course for K-8 teachers by July 1, 2025. The review committee would be required to report its findings to the Department of Education, State Board of Education and the education committees in the Senate and House of Representatives no later than December 31, 2024. 

Designating THEC to govern higher education boards in case of a sunset –  In the event that a state university board sunsets, the institution would lack governance entirely. Chairman of the Senate Education Committee Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol) is sponsoring legislation to fill that gap currently in code. Senate Bill 2109, which Lundberg hopes is never utilized, ensures that a university will always have a governing body. Under the bill, if a governing board should sunset, the Executive Director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) would perform the duties as prescribed in law for the university. These duties include managing academic programs, capital projects, and budget requests. These powers would transfer to the Executive Director, a non-voting member of THEC, to prevent any conflict of interest for the Commission. The bill passed the Senate floor this week and is moving through committee in the House. 

Improving communication with mental health institutions – Senator Page Walley (R-Savannah) is sponsoring legislation to help local law enforcement agencies protect public safety by improving communication with mental health institutions. Senate Bill 1681  clarifies that local law enforcement agencies and local courts must be informed when a patient who lives in their jurisdiction is released from a psychiatric institution.  The notifications sent to law enforcement will let officers know that individuals who may be a danger to themselves or others are returning to their homes. Currently, the way the law is written, mental health institutions only alert law enforcement about involuntary commitments in the jurisdiction of the institution. However, if the patient lives in a different county than the location of the mental health facility, then law enforcement in the patient’s county is not informed. The legislation passed the Senate Health and Welfare Committee this week and advances to the Senate floor. 

Providing bonuses for military personnel with specialized skills – This week, the Senate State and Local Government Committee advanced legislation to help recruit and retain Tennessee National Guard service members with specialized skills. Senate Bill 2081, co-sponsored by Senator Bill Powers (R-Clarksville), allows the Department of Military to administer a critical skills retention bonus program to fill critical military operations specialties within the Tennessee National Guard. The bill also ensures that service members do not suffer financially when called to active duty by codifying partial paid coverage. Under this bill, if a service member is called to active duty at a salary less than their usual, the service member will still receive their regular state salary. 

Helping local governments mitigate risks from natural disasters –  In an effort to give more resources to help local governments and rural counties prepare for national disasters, the Senate State and Local Government Committee advanced the Resilient Tennessee Revolving Loan Fund Act. The legislation would authorize the State of Tennessee to receive federal funds via the STORM Act. The STORM Act was passed by Congress in 2021 and allows eligible states to receive a loan fund for hazard mitigation assistance to reduce risks from natural hazards and disasters. Senate Bill 2082 is co-sponsored by Senator Page Walley (R-Savannah) and now advances to the Senate Finance Committee.

Improving integrity of financial offices – To improve the integrity of Certified Municipal Finance Officers and Certified County Finance Officers, Senator Paul Rose (R-Covington) is sponsoring Senate Bill 1744 which would close public records access to the test required to become one of these local finance officers. Currently, test questions and answers are public record, which can result in those lacking the proper knowledge and skills to unfairly pass the test. This bill will ensure that all Financial Officers are qualified and capable of performing the job tasks within their office. The bill now advances to the floor. 

Preventing DUI homicide recidivism – In 2011, Dustin Ledford was killed by an intoxicated driver. The offender was paroled and subsequently reoffended, almost taking another life. Senator Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun), is sponsoring Ledford’s Law to reduce the chances that offenders in DUI homicide cases will reoffend and, once again, jeopardize the lives of others on the road. The bill, which passed the Senate floor this week, requires substance abuse treatment or behavioral counseling for offenders on parole. Many offenders do not continue substance abuse treatment once paroled, and this bill will address the problem and help reduce recidivism rates. 

Protecting rights for power of attorneys in healthcare decisions  – The Senate passed legislation this week to ensure those with power of attorney for healthcare decisions cannot be prevented from visiting the patient in the hospital. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, some hospitals suspended or revoked a patient’s power of attorney’s right to visit and make healthcare decisions. Unfortunately, this caused many patients to pass away without being able to say goodbye to their loved ones. Senate Bill 1641, sponsored by Senator Mark Pody (R-Lebanon), would prohibit hospitals from restricting or terminating a power of attorney’s visiting rights during a state of emergency. Visitors would still be required to follow safety protocols, but visitors cannot be forced to adhere to any invasive protocols such as having a vaccination or medical procedure done before entering the hospital. 

Healthcare Sharing Ministries Freedom to Share Act – In an effort to increase healthcare access to Tennesseans, Senator Shane Reeves (R-Murfreesboro) is sponsoring legislation to ensure healthcare sharing ministries are only regulated as a tax-exempt, nonprofit and not as an insurance company. These ministries pool financial resources of members who share a common set of ethical or religious beliefs to cover costs of participants’ medical needs. All participants are encouraged to donate to the organization, but are not required to. These ministries help individuals without the ability to pay out-of-pocket costs for medical care. Senate Bill 862 passed the Senate this week and will be sent to the Governor for his signature. 

Previously covered bills that passed the Senate floor this week: 

• House Joint Resolution 94 – proposes that Marsy’s Law be added to the Tennessee Constitution to guarantee victims of crime have clear and enforceable rights
• Senate Bill 596 – ensures a person is not required to solemnize a marriage if the person has objections due to their personal or religious beliefs
• Senate Bill 1967 – shortens the deadline to request an absentee ballot from 7 to 10 days before an election

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(NASHVILLE) This week Governor Bill Lee delivered his sixth State of the State address on Monday evening in a joint session of the General Assembly, where he laid out his 2024 budget priorities. Lee’s proposals include strategically investing in economic and educational opportunities, strengthening families and preserving Tennessee’s natural resources.

On Tuesday, the Senate Finance Ways and Means Committee was presented with a more detailed overview of Lee’s 2024 budget proposal by Department of Finance and Administration Commissioner Jim Bryson. 

Legacy of fiscal responsibility 

In his speech, Gov. Lee credited the General Assembly’s unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility as the reason for the state’s firm financial foundation. After years of extraordinary revenue growth, revenues are slowing. However, because of consistent conservative budgeting, Tennessee is well-positioned to continue its record of fiscal responsibility with a balanced budget, healthy savings and tax cuts.

“Tennessee’s fiscal management approach has set the standard for how states across the country should operate, and families and businesses nationwide have taken note,” Lee remarked.

Lee’s proposal includes a $20 million investment in Tennessee’s Rainy Day Fund, bringing Tennessee reserves to more than $2 billion – the largest in state history. It also includes significant tax relief in the form of simplifying the state’s franchise tax. 

Lee touted Tennessee’s economic growth calling Tennessee “an economic powerhouse for this country.”

“Over the past five years, Tennessee has been ranked as the fastest-growing economy of all 50 states, the number one state for fiscal stability, a top state for business, the second lowest-taxed state per capita, and the lowest debt state in America,” said Lee. “Any state would envy the position that we’ve been in.” 

Investing in Education

Once again, Education is a top priority for Gov. Lee this year. In the speech, Lee underscored his focus on improving the state’s public schools, while also ensuring parents have the freedom to make education decisions specific to their child’s needs.  Lee expressed his intentions to provide school choice for every Tennessee family through his Education Freedom Scholarship Act proposal.

“We’ve done a lot of work in Tennessee, but we still have a ways to go in providing the best possible education for every student in our state,” he said. “2024 is the year to make school choice a reality for every Tennessee family.”

Lee also emphasized his commitment to investing in and improving Tennessee public schools. 

“We have placed an unprecedented focus on public education, and I intend to continue that every year,” Lee said. “We can give parents choice and support public schools at the same time. You’ll hear me say that over and over again – these two ideas are not in conflict.”

Notable education highlights in Lee’s 2024 proposed budget include:

Public Education Investments

• More than $261 million to strengthen education through the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) formula growth, including teacher pay raises
• $30 million for summer learning programs to support students between school years
• $3.2 million dedicated to AP Access for All, which provides AP courses to students across rural and urban Tennessee
• $2.5 million to strengthen students’ reading and phonics skills
• $577,000 to ensure we train Tennessee teachers to be the best and brightest educators of Tennessee children
• $15 million to fund charter school facility improvements

Expanding Choices for Tennessee Parents

• $141.5 million to establish Education Freedom Scholarships to empower parents with the freedom to pick  the right school for their child

Advancing Rural and Mental Health

Gov. Lee also announced a plan to spend $208 million over the next five years to support rural healthcare based on recommendations from the governor’s Rural Healthcare Task Force formed in 2021.  If approved, this would be the single largest investment in rural healthcare in state history. The significant funds are a result of Tennessee’s successful one-of-a-kind TennCare waiver, which allows TennCare to recoup savings as a result of increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the TennCare program. 

The $208 million would be used to strengthen rural health by investing in apprenticeships and skilled training, provide greater access to specialty care and telemedicine, improve career 

pathways, establish hospital and physician practice grants, and create a new Center of Excellence to sustain and expand rural health support. 

Lee also proposed to use more than $100 million from shared TennCare savings, to invest in behavioral health and substance abuse support in Tennessee over the next five years.

Prioritizing Public Safety

Over the last few years, lawmakers have worked closely with Gov. Lee to prioritize major investments to keep Tennessee communities safe. On Monday, Lee announced he’s continuing his commitment to that shared priority by proposing funding for 200 new Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers, with an additional 60 trooper positions starting this year. 

Lee also thanked the General Assembly for their work to combat violent crime and improve school safety. He touted the importance of the new $150 million investment in the Violent Crime Intervention Fund which is enabling partnerships with local governments to help places like Shelby County. Lee also reflected on the horrible tragedy at Covenant School last year, which prompted a strong response to enhance the school safety legislation being considered at the time. Following the tragedy, lawmakers and Gov. Lee created a $140 million grant to place a trained, armed school resource officer in every Tennessee public school. 

Preserving Outdoor Heritage

Lee proposed big plans to continue efforts to preserve Tennessee’s natural beauty and outdoor heritage for generations to come. These proposed investments include:

•  $63 million to create four new Tennessee State Parks
• $20 million to expand blueway trail access, which will drive tourism and economic activity across our rural communities
• $20 million to improve water quality at rivers, lakes and streams across the state, making them safe for future generations to enjoy and the Bill Dance Signature Lakes Fishing Trail
• $25 million to establish the Farmland Conservation Fund, partnering with farmers to place a conservation easement on their land to preserve and protect Tennessee for future generations
• $5 million to protect and enhance scenic beauty along our major highways
• $3 million for Access 2030 to make Tennessee State Parks accessible to Tennesseans with disabilities

Tennessee Republicans express support for Texas in fight to secure southern border

The federal government has created a crisis at the United States’ southern border as illegal immigrants are flowing into the country at record levels allowing drug cartels and terrorists to enter undetected. Texas has declared the crisis an invasion and is pushing back to defend their state, while the federal government is attempting to block Texas at every turn. This week, Tennessee Senate Republicans passed SJR 906, sponsored by Senator Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun) to express strong support for Texas’s efforts to secure the southern border and exercise their right to self-defense under Article I of the US Constitution.

The resolution reads: “Due to the present administration’s abrogation of its duty to secure the

border, more than six million illegal immigrants have crossed our southern border in the last

three years.” It goes on to affirm that, “The State of Texas has acted properly in declaring an invasion pursuant to such constitutional provision and invoking Texas’s constitutional authority to defend and protect its citizens and sovereign property.” 

Recently, Gov. Lee traveled to Eagle Pass, Texas to join Texas Governor Greg Abbott and 12 other governors to discuss how states can restore security amid the federal government’s failed leadership. Additionally, Gov. Lee committed to deploying two additional waves of Tennessee National Guard troops to support Texas’ ongoing efforts to improve border security. 

Marsy’s Law passes first hurdle to become part of the Tennessee Constitution 

In an effort to support Tennessee crime victims and prevent further trauma, Senator John Stevens (R-Huntingdon) is sponsoring a resolution seeking to add Marsy’s Law to the Tennessee Constitution to guarantee victims of crime have clear and enforceable rights.

This week, Marsy’s Law, House Joint Resolution 94, passed its first hurdle in the Senate with approval from the Senate Judiciary Committee. The measure aims to give constitutional protections to victims, including the right to be heard, the right to be informed, and the right to be treated with fairness, dignity, and respect through the judicial process. 

Marsalee Nicholas’s family, who Marsy’s Law was named for, ran into the man who murdered Marsy a week after her death at the grocery store on the way back from her funeral. Marsy’s murderer was her ex-boyfriend, who stalked and killed her while she was a student at the University of California at Santa Barbara in 1983. They were not notified that he was released on bail.  Marsy’s Law seeks to ensure devastating and traumatic experiences like this never happen to victims in Tennessee.

“Tennessee crime victims are not given the same amount of protection as convicted criminals,” said Sen. Stevens. “Marsy’s Law will ensure that victims have equal access to justice.” 

HJR 94 passed the House of Representatives in the 2023 legislative session. If passed by the Senate this year, the resolution will be required to pass by a two-thirds majority in the 2025 or 2026 legislative sessions before it can appear on the ballot for a statewide referendum. The amendment would become part of the state constitution if adopted by a majority vote in the 2026 governor’s election. 

Legislation advances to make Safe Baby Courts permanent  

On Tuesday, the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced Senate Bill 1585 that would extend the Zero to Three Court Initiative program indefinitely, so it can continue to serve children and parents suffering from substance abuse disorder. Since the General Assembly passed the Zero to Three Court Initiative in 2017 to expand Safe Baby Courts, it has successfully improved outcomes for infants, toddlers and families in crisis across the state. The Safe Baby Courts aim to secure permanent placement for children by focusing on rehabilitating parents who suffer from substance abuse disorders, so they can be reunited with their children.  

“The winners here are the children and the families,” said Senator Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin), who is sponsoring the legislation. “This has been a good program in our state for young children and parents in custody and I am proud to be a part of legislation that is helping repair Tennessean families.” 

Since 2017, the state of Tennessee has expanded the number of Safe Baby Courts from 5 to 13. Since its inception, 1,006 children have been served through infant courts and more than 50% of them have returned to a biological parent. Remarkably, only two of those 1,006 children have returned to state custody within six months. The court reaches permanency for these children around 94 days sooner than the traditional case.

The legislation is now awaiting approval from the Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee.

In Brief…

Ensuring election integrity with mail-in ballots – This week, the Senate State and Local Government Committee advanced Senate Bill 1967, sponsored by Chairman Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville). The bill will require absentee ballots to be picked up further in advance of election day. It would shorten the deadline to request an absentee ballot from 7 to 10 days before an election. In Tennessee, all absentee ballots must be returned by mail.  The three additional days are largely needed as a result of service standard changes made to the USPS in October 2021 that resulted in 1-2 day delivery delays for first class mail. These three additional days would help ensure that all ballots have adequate time to be mailed, received and counted by the election commission ahead of election day.

Political offices – To ensure the focus of elected officials in Tennessee is not split between two different offices, Chairman Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville) is sponsoring Senate Bill 1968 to prevent a person from holding or running for two elected offices at the same time.  Currently, a person cannot hold two elected constitutional offices at the same time. Under the proposed bill, a person could not run for or hold two elected offices at the same time, regardless of if the position is constitutional or not. However, the bill does make an exception in elections for state executive committee, presidential delegates and special elections. The bill moves to the Senate floor. 

Protecting personal beliefs – Senator Mark Pody (R-Lebanon) is sponsoring Senate Bill 596 to ensure a person is not required to solemnize a marriage if the person has objections due to their personal or religious beliefs. This bill would codify the fundamental principle that no person should be compelled by the government to act contrary to their personal or religious convictions. The legislation emphasizes the importance of respecting diverse beliefs and values. It would ensure that individuals, whether ordained ministers, justices of the peace, or other authorized officiants, maintain the freedom to exercise their deeply held convictions regarding marriage solemnization. The bill advanced out of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday, and is awaiting passage on the Senate floor.

Motorcycle license plates – The Senate Transportation and Safety Committee approved legislation that would authorize disabled decals for motorcycle license plates, which would benefit many Tennessee veterans who own motorcycles. Many veterans and others with disabilities are still capable of driving motorcycles, and they sometimes have specialty motorcycles made for those with disabilities. Senate Bill 1678, sponsored by Senator Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin), will now move to the Senate floor for a final vote. 

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(NASHVILLE) February 1, 2024 – This week lawmakers worked diligently to file all their legislation with the Senate Clerk’s office ahead of the February 1 deadline. When legislation is formally filed, it receives a bill number and a bill jacket that travels with the bill as it goes through the legislative process. All legislation filed is easily accessible through the legislature’s award-winning website.

Now that all bills for the 2024 session have been filed, legislative work will ramp up as Senators put more legislation on notice with one of the Senate’s nine standing committees.  A committee is the first opportunity in the legislative process for a bill to be voted on by lawmakers. Depending on its content, legislation must pass one, two or sometimes three committees before it is put for a final vote on the Senate floor.  

Next week attention will turn to the 2024 budget. On Monday evening at 6 o’clock central, Governor Lee will unveil his budget priorities in the annual State of the State address, which will take place in a joint session of the General Assembly. 

This week Senators approved several bills in committee and worked towards improving public safety.

Senator Taylor files bill to prohibit local restrictions on routine traffic stops

To fight violent crime in Memphis, State Senator Brent Taylor (R-Memphis) filed Senate Bill 2572 this week to ensure law enforcement can conduct routine traffic stops as part of their efforts to protect public safety. The Memphis City Council passed a resolution last year to prohibit Memphis Police from stopping vehicles for expired tags, broken tail lights, loose bumpers, and similar offenses. Taylor’s legislation would prohibit local governments from restricting law enforcement’s ability to conduct routine traffic stops.

“Crime is on the rise across the country. Violent crime has reached a crisis level in Memphis,”  said Taylor. “Police officers and deputy sheriff’s need to have more tools available to combat rising crime, not fewer. This proposed law will prohibit cities and counties from restricting routine traffic stops and other crime-fighting tactics.”

Routine traffic stops have resulted in major arrests and the apprehension of violent criminals for years.  Whether it’s a random drug trafficker pulled over for running a stop sign or the most well-known case—Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh—routine traffic stops are a proven means of catching violent offenders, drug traffickers, and other dangerous criminals. 

Senators support AG lawsuit defending rights of NCAA student athletes’

On the Senate floor Wednesday lawmakers expressed support for a lawsuit filed by Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti against the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) for violating federal antitrust laws by placing anticompetitive restrictions on the ability of current and future student-athletes to benefit from their name, image and likeness (NIL). 

The AG’s action is consistent with legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2021 to push back against unfair NCAA policies and ensure student-athletes attending Tennessee universities could financially benefit from their NIL. This week, State Senator John Stevens (R-Huntingdon), who co-sponsored the legislation, emphasized that Tennessee law clearly stands on the side of NCAA athletes on this issue. 

“Tennessee law is very clear. The NCAA cannot impair a student athlete’s right to earn a living based upon their name, image or likeness if they have not violated the rules set forth by the NCAA,” said Stevens. “I thank the Attorney General of Tennessee and Virginia. They have filed suit against the NCAA on behalf of not only the student-athletes in the state of Tennessee but those other student-athletes outside the state of Tennessee who chose to come to our universities to maximize not only their educational opportunities but also their financial opportunities.” 

When prospective student-athletes are deciding where to attend college, the NCAA prohibits them from discussing potential NIL opportunities with schools prior to enrolling. These restrictions leave prospective student-athletes unable to consider the full scope of NIL-related services a school might offer.

Senator Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville) also stood on the floor to express support for the lawsuit and the University of Tennessee, which is currently under investigation by the NCAA for violations of their NIL policies. Briggs said that the current NCAA rules are unclear and unfairly punish student-athletes. He hopes the AG lawsuit against the NCAA will result in clear and fair policies for student-athletes.

New security technology eligible for school safety grants following legislation sponsored by Sen. Pody 

This week, State Senator Mark Pody (R-Lebanon) announced important progress in ongoing efforts to improve school safety in the Senate Education Committee. Pody told the committee a new wearable security alert device is now eligible for the school safety grants funded by the General Assembly in 2023. The device would be worn by teachers and would cut down on response times in emergencies to protect teachers and students. At the push of a button, the new technology can alert law enforcement and school administrators to threats while also providing real-time video footage of the classroom or surrounding area. 

After Pody filed legislation this year to make the new security technology eligible for school safety grants, the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) agreed to approve the technology administratively. Now, instead of waiting on the months-long legislative process, the new technology can be available to schools immediately. TDOE will notify school districts across the state that the school safety grant eligibility is expanded to cover this technology. 

“This technology has the potential to save lives, and I am so grateful to the Department of Education for streamlining the process of approving the technology for school safety grant funding,” said Pody. “It will improve the response time of law enforcement and EMS to immediate classroom threats such as discipline issues, medical emergencies or active shooters. It will be like having a Ring doorbell on teachers’ lanyards that alerts the appropriate personnel. When teachers press that button, they know help is coming.”

Though Pody’s legislation had specific requirements for the device, the department approved a more broad application of the school safety grants. 

The funding for the school safety grants is a result of legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2023. Lawmakers approved over $230 million in the budget to place a school resource officer (SRO) at every Tennessee public school, boost physical security at public and private schools, and provide additional mental health resources for Tennesseans. 

Expanding highway access for off-road vehicles to boost local economy

On Thursday, the Senate passed legislation to expand access of off-road vehicles to certain sections of a state highway in Oliver Springs. Senate Bill 1131, sponsored by State Senator Ken Yager (R-Kingston), allows off-road vehicles on permitted sections of TN-330 and TN-62 any day of the year. Currently, off-road vehicles can drive on the permitted sections two weekends a year. The bill would also stimulate economic growth by attracting individuals to the restaurants, grocery stores and gas stations located on the highways. 

“The thriving ATV community serves as a vital industry in Oliver Springs,” said Senator Yager. “This bill not only aims to draw a greater influx of enthusiasts to the town but also seeks to catalyze economic growth and prosperity in the region.”

The bill is now moving through committee in the House of Representatives. 

In Brief…

Natural Disaster Relief Program –  To increase aid to counties affected by natural disasters, this week the Senate State and Local Government Committee advanced Senate Bill 1660, sponsored by Sen. Page Walley (R-Savannah), to create the Natural Disaster Relief Program. The program, which would be administered by the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), authorizes a county to request grants to offset the costs of responding to natural disasters that do not rise to the level of a regional Federally Declared Disaster but are nevertheless devastating to a county. Recently, many Tennessee counties suffered the effects of tornadoes and incurred large costs associated with clean-up and repair. The legislation advances to the Senate Finance Ways and Means Committee. 

Hot slaw is on its way to becoming an official state food

This week slaw was a hot topic in the Senate. On Thursday, senators voted to make hot slaw an official state food and designate Cleveland, Tennessee as the state’s “hot slaw capital.” The legislation, Senate Bill 1573 and Senate Bill 1574, is sponsored by Senator Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun). It awaits action in the House of Representatives before being sent to the Governor for his signature. 

Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation shows significant impact on students’ access to literacy  

On Tuesday, the Senate Finance, Ways and Means committee heard updates from the President and CEO of the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation about the significant impact of Tennessee’s investment in the program. The foundation, which is celebrating its 20th year of service, began with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 1996 and has since grown into a statewide foundation aimed at providing children with guidance, resources and support for literacy in the formative years of their learning. 

Over the past two decades, the state has funded $4.5 million to the foundation and has served 70% of the birth-to-five population yearly. In 2020, the foundation focused its attention on K-3rd grade students, rolling out the new program in succession year by year. Six books (fiction and nonfiction), think sheets and parent resources have been sent to every child in every school district as well as teachers and school librarians each summer. In 2023, 1.2 million books were mailed to over 200,000 students and 11,000 teachers. The foundation plans to roll out a Kindergarten program this summer and hopes to continually reach a greater number of students and communities.

Wear Red for Heart Disease 

In honor of National Wear Red Day on Feb. 2, Senate members gathered on the floor Thursday wearing red to bring awareness to women’s heart disease. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the life of a woman every 80 seconds. As the Senate celebrates Heart Health Month, the American Heart Association will be hosting a free CPR training in the Cordell Hull Building on February 14 to provide education for heart disease and preventative care. 

“Heart disease will claim one out of every three women as a cause of death,” said Senator Briggs, a heart surgeon. “Everyone here has known someone who has been affected by heart disease – this training could literally be a life saver.” 

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