A bill that would allow schools to refuse undocumented students could put Tennessee in violation of the Civil Rights Act.
Marianna Bacallao, Reporter
Marianna Bacallao (mare-ee-AW-nuh bah-kuh-YOW) covers systems of power from the statehouse to the courts. Previously, she served three years as the afternoon host for WPLN News, where she won a Murrow for hosting during a deadly tornado outbreak, served as a guide on election night, and gave live updates in the wake of the Covenant School shooting. A Georgia native, she was a contributor to Georgia Public Broadcasting during her undergrad years and served as editor-in-chief for Mercer University’s student newspaper.
Tennessee advances a challenge to education rights for immigrant students, despite mounting opposition
A challenge to federal education rights is one step closer to passage, despite mounting pressure from protesters and faith leaders.
Memphis lawmaker proposes a way around local taxes for developers
Developers could skirt local taxes by making an agreement directly with the state under a new proposal in the Tennessee Senate.
TN Senate opens the door to deny bail for more Tennesseans
More Tennesseans could be denied bail under a joint resolution advancing in the statehouse. The amendment is one step closer to voters, having passed the state Senate.
Tennessee schools could charge tuition for students without legal status under a bill advancing in the statehouse
Schools could refuse to teach students without legal status, or charge their families tuition, under the bill.
TN’s ‘drag ban’ is here to stay. Here’s why LGBTQ advocates don’t mind.
Tennessee lawmakers are celebrating as the state’s so-called drag ban remains in place indefinitely. LGBTQ advocates also see the decision as a win.
Tennessee drag ban to stay as SCOTUS refuses to hear the case
Tennessee’s ban on drag in public spaces will remain in effect, as the U.S. Supreme Court refuses to take up a legal challenge to the law. Another suit could give LGTBQ advocates another shot at challenging the ban.
TN Republicans want a new public prison, as its private prison asks for more state dollars
Tennessee’s Department of Correction is asking for nearly $7 million in public funds to go toward the state’s for-profit prisons.
Housing, childcare and conservation: TN Gov. Bill Lee unveils new priorities
During his annual State of the State address, Lee laid out next steps for his administration — and touted the results of a special session last month.
Under Trump, DOJ withdraws support for transgender youth in Tennessee case at the Supreme Court
The U.S. Department of Justice notified the high court Friday that the U.S. is now backing the state of Tennessee and its ban on care.
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