Gov. Lee previews budget priorities, including support for toll lanes and the Department of Children’s Services

In his latest moment in front of reporters, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee fielded questions on transportation, the Department of Children’s Services and whether he would support former President Donald Trump’s bid for presidency. He previewed his thinking on two of those three subjects.

On transportation, Lee was asked whether he supported Commissioner Butch Eley’s proposal for toll lanes. Shortly after winning election, Lee stated he wants to improve roadways without raising taxes or adding toll roads. He told reporters Friday that he sees lanes as being distinct from roads.

“We don’t think that traditional toll roads, paying a fee to go from A to B, is the way to go,” said Lee. “We actually think of a more innovative solution, which is a ‘choice’ lane, where drivers have a choice to enter a lane and pay a price to drive on that lane — at the same time having the option to be in a free lane.”

Eley says he sees tolls as a way for the state to create a sustainable long-term revenue stream. According to a proposal released earlier last week they want to partner with private construction companies to build the toll lanes.

Vow to address DCS concerns

Lee also was also asked how he was working to address the issue of vulnerable children being housed in state offices and hospital rooms for extended periods of times when the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services lacks foster home placements. The agency is also struggling with high staff turnover.

Some of those being sent to hospitals have complex health needs. But many do not have the kind of medical needs that require inpatient care. Child advocates say hospitalizing kids who don’t need the care could violated the Americans with Disabilities Act.  

“They have a very clear plan of how they want to correct this. We are also going to look at short-term solutions and long-term solutions.” said Lee. “Workforce challenges in DCS are not unique to Tennessee, but they are a Tennessee problem and we have to address them.”

Lee said he would present a budget in January aimed at addressing the issue.

DCS, which has a new commissioner, has requested an additional $150 million to battle high caseloads for social workers. Lee has signaled he wants to move “aggressively” and be transparent about the problems at DCS.

When it comes to former President Donald Trump’s bid for the White House, Lee cited his position as vice chairman of the Republican Governors Association and said he wouldn’t be speaking on presidential politics.