Parents could stop their kids from joining extracurricular groups in public schools under a bill that passed today in the state Senate. As The proposed law would give parents veto power in advance.
Bill to Allow Religious Expressions at School One Vote Away from Becoming Law
The Tennessee Senate approved a bill today to allow students to cite their religious beliefs in doing schoolwork and to allow prayer groups to be formed as easily as a chess club.
After Quick Debate, “Guns-in-Trunks” Heads Toward House Floor
Two bills to enable gun-permit holders to leave firearms in their vehicles were voted out of a state House Committee today after only ten minutes of testimony against, and ten minutes for, the controversial issue. In the face of some high profile opposition, the bills are now on the way to be scheduled for a House floor vote.
Reports of My Leaving State Greatly Exaggerated: FedEx’s Fred Smith
A noted conservative economist casually told state lawmakers this week that FedEx CEO Fred Smith had said he would leave the state if Tennessee’s estate tax wasn’t repealed. Smith denies making any such statement.
Senate Trims Scholarship Amounts – Or Not, If Enough Lottery Money Comes In
The Tennessee Senate voted tonight to cut some lottery scholarship awards in order to build up lottery reserves. But the measure has an escape clause that leaves the scholarships untouched, if the lottery continues to bring in additional money each year.
Senate Approves Judge Appointment Proposal Much Like Governor’s Preference
Tonight, the Tennessee Senate approved a proposal for naming state judges – a first step in making a change to the state constitution. And it was the one that most resembles the current system.
Supply-Side Guru Blames State’s Gift and Estate Taxes for Economic Lag
The often-described “father of supply-side economics” told lawmakers Monday all that’s holding Tennessee back from economic prosperity is a tax on gifts and large estates. Legislation cutting those taxes is being debated this week.
Lawmakers Weigh More Regulation of Cosmetic Laser Operators
For about a year Tennessee lawmakers have listened to testimony from people burned by cosmetic lasers, tools used in spas to remove body hair, rejuvenate skin, and erase sun damage.
Senate Holds Test Vote on Method of Picking Judges
A proposal much like the Tennessee’s current system got one vote more than a measure that would put a federal-type, appoint-and-confirm system in place.
Senate Gives Final Nod to TEAM Act
One of the biggest changes: seniority on the job will no longer be insulation against being laid off.
Bill sponsor Jack Johnson, a Williamson County Republican, explains the new system.
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