Capitol Hill Conversation-Lottery Politics

Business is good for the Tennessee Lottery. It’s posting record sales and has over 360 million in a reserve fund. Despite that, some legislators are pressing ahead with a plan that make it harder for students to get Hope Scholarships, which are funded by the lottery.

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta says U.S. forces cannot be intimidated in light of recent attacks by partners in Afghanistan. Six American service members have been killed by their Afghan partners in recent days.

Tennessee’s flu season started in the last few weeks. It’s the latest start to the season in over two decades.

State education officials are preparing to implement the next big phase of reforms. The Common Core standards that will be used in every classroom by 2014.

Schools in Overton County are closed today. Hundreds of students are sick with a stomach illness.

In the GOP race for president, “repeal Obamacare” has become a well-worn applause line. But there’s at least one group of card-carrying Republicans abstaining from the cheers – those in Nashville’s health care industry who are finding reform is good for business.

Another traditional school in Nashville is set to become a charter. Education officials say they’ve found a model that works, and now they’re expanding on it.

Persons who promote prostitution could be defined as “violent” under a proposed law working through the Tennessee General Assembly

Teachers and coaches could gather with their students at prayer and religious observances before and after school, under a bill passed by the state House of Representatives today

Tennesseans between 60 and 65 would be added to those who can vote absentee without a doctor’s excuse under a bill passed today in the state House