The debate on medical marijuana in the Tennessee General Assembly has been postponed for at least one more year.
Knoxville Rep. Rick Staples Violated Legislature’s Harassment Policy, Committee Finds
Listen A Democratic state representative has been found in violation of the legislature’s sexual harassment policy, but colleagues have stopped short of recommending his removal or any disciplinary action.
Tennessee ‘Fetal Heartbeat Bill’ Likely Not Moving Forward Amid Concerns In Senate
The so-called “fetal heartbeat bill” is likely to not move forward this year in the Tennessee legislature. The Senate Judiciary Committee decided Tuesday evening to send the bill (SB1236/HB77) to summer study.
Tennessee House Votes To End License Requirement To Braid Hair
Tennesseans could soon go into hair-braiding without a cosmetology license from the state. The proposal (HB320/SB1185) passed the Tennessee House of Representatives Monday night mostly on a party line vote. Republicans generally support the measure, which they say will create jobs.
The Tri-Star State: Lawmakers Consider Potential Impact Of Anti-LGBTQ Bills In Tennessee
Listen Equal rights advocates are warning Tennessee lawmakers about consequences the state could face if they move forward with legislation that targets the LGBTQ community. The General Assembly is considering about 10 measures that could impact whether LGBTQ people could adopt, or use a bathroom that matches their gender identity.
Gov. Lee’s School Voucher Plan Faces Questions In The Tennessee Senate
Listen Gov. Bill Lee’s Education Savings Account plan might be in trouble in the state Senate. Republican Dolores Gresham, the chairwoman of the Senate Education Committee, says major changes to the school voucher proposal are needed before there’s agreement.
Knoxville Democrat Says Allegations Of Sexual Misconduct Are A ‘Political Character Assassination’
Listen A Knoxville Democrat has been accued of sexual misconduct, but it’s unclear what penalties or scrutiny he faces. State Rep. Rick Staples says the allegations from an unnamed woman involved in Democratic politics are “politically motivated.” The woman claims Staples held onto her waist during a meeting in his office, after making inappropriate comments […]
Tennessee Faith Leaders Say New Adoption Bill Would Open Gates To Religious Discrimination
Listen Private adoption agencies in Tennessee could soon be able to reject would-be parents based on their religious beliefs. Advocacy groups such as the Tennessee Equity Project have slammed the bill (HB836/SB1304), saying it opens the doors for discrimination against the LGBTQ community in Tennessee. But concerns are also being raised by some religious groups.
Voter Registration Groups Could Soon Be Fined If They Submit Incomplete Applications
Listen A new measure in the Tennessee General Assembly would open people or organizations that submit incomplete voter registration forms to fines. State officials say the bill is a response to a growing number of incomplete voter applications. Opponents contend it’s meant as intimidation.
The Tri-Star State: ‘Let’s Make A Deal’ Time In The Legislative Session
Listen The Tennessee General Assembly is getting to the do-or-die point for new legislation. The end of committee meetings means lawmakers have to make important decisions regarding bills that could determine whether they’ll pass or they’ll fail. This also means, in some cases, it’s time for compromise.
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