Tennessee Receives Key Education and Nutrition Waivers
The Tennessee Department of Education has been granted several key waivers from federal agencies to allow significantly more flexibility at state and local levels during school building closures resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. “Here in Tennessee, we have moved swiftly to proactively request waivers for certain federal requirements in order to remove as many barriers […]
State Senator Presses for Broadband Deregulation to Benefit Consumers, Advance Internet Expansion
State Senator Janice Bowling (R-Tullahoma) continues to advance proposed legislation aimed at making broadband service more available to rural citizens and to create market competition among internet service providers (ISP’s). Her proposals would define broadband at or above the FCC standard, streamline the franchise certification process for ISP’s under certain circumstances, permit authorization for multiple […]
Gov. Bill Lee Signs Executive Order Mandating Alternative Business Models for Restaurants and Gyms, Lifts Alcohol Regulations
Sunday, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed Executive Order 17 calling for businesses across the state to utilize alternative business models beginning at midnight CDT on Monday, March 23, 2020 until midnight CDT April 6, 2020. The order also outlines ways businesses and citizens should work to protect vulnerable populations. “The COVID-19 pandemic has created both […]
Agriculture Commissioner: We Are Committed to Food Safety and Supply
During this time of uncertainty, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) remains committed in our mission to safeguard your food and fiber and ensure equity in the marketplace. With our citizens and our employees in mind, TDA inspectors, administrators, and support staff continue to provide the services you count on while also following CDC guidelines […]
New State Resources For Employers and Employees Impacted by COVID-19
NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development has new resources available for employers and employees impacted by the COVID-19 emergency. The Department revamped its website to put information and resources in a convenient form for Tennesseans to access. The website now has separate sections for employers, employees, frequently asked questions, and for information […]
In-person Photo Requirement to be Waived for Renewals and License Expiration Dates Extended Due to the COVID-19 Outbreak.
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) continues to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak closely. At this time, most State Driver Services Centers remain open and the Department is currently taking precautions to protect the health and safety of our customers and employees. To relieve as many customers as possible from needing to visit […]
Governor Lee Issues Statement – “All Schools Expected to Close by Friday, March 20, 2020 at the Latest through March 31, 2020”
Today, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued the following statement regarding statewide school closure: “As the response to COVID-19 evolves, I urge every school district in Tennessee to close as soon as practically possible, with all schools expected to close by Friday, March 20, 2020 at the latest. Schools should remain closed through March 31, 2020 […]
Nashville Weekly Wrap
House of Representatives responds to communities devastated by historic tornado outbreak Early this week, several communities across Tennessee suffered extensive damage as a result of an historic tornado outbreak. In the early morning hours of March 3, a powerful tornado tore through Germantown and North Nashville with wind speeds reaching 125 miles per hour. The […]
Tennessee’s Broadband Initiatives Featured in New Pew Broadband Report
Tennessee’s broadband initiatives are highlighted in a new report released today by the Pew Charitable Trusts. The report, ‘How States are Expanding Broadband Access,’ features best practices from nine states that are developing leading broadband programs to address critical connectivity gaps in their communities. Tennessee’s best practices include the Department of Economic and Community Development’s […]
Gov. Bill Lee Introduces Constitutional Carry Legislation
February 27, 2020, Gov. Bill Lee announced that he is proposing legislation toadvance the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Tennesseans by implementing a Constitutional Carry law. “The Second Amendment is clear and concise and secures the freedoms of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “I am pleased to announce […]
MyTN State Services Made Mobile
A new mobile app is making it easier for Tennesseans to access state government services. “MyTN” is now available for download from the Apple and Android store. Visit MyTN.gov to easily download to your device by clicking the Apple or Android store icons. “State government services are utilized by every citizen, and we want to provide access […]
Nashville Weekly Wrap
Governor’s Initiatives Begin Journey Through House This week in Nashville, almost three dozen administration bills began making their way through the House chamber. These initiatives build upon Tennessee’s recent momentum and are key components of Gov. Bill Lee’s agenda for the 2020 legislative year. Some of them include: House Bill 2223: Clarifies the Department of […]
Legislation Lowering Tennessee’s Business Income Tax Gains Support In House
A measure designed to lower Tennessee’s business income tax (excise tax) is gaining support in the House. House Bill 2301 is a fiscally responsible approach to attract new business to our state and to encourage small business owners to reinvest into their communities by beginning the process of lowering the excise tax from 6.5 percent […]
Early Voting Ends Tuesday
Time is running out for Tennesseans planning to vote early in the Presidential Preference Primary election. Early voting ends Tuesday, Feb. 25. Election Day for the Presidential Preference Primary is Tuesday, March 3. “Early voting offers Tennesseans a convenient opportunity to cast their ballots instead of waiting until Election Day,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. “Now […]
Legislation Declaring Tennessee The “Volunteer State” Moves Forward
Legislation officially designating the state of Tennessee as the “Volunteer State” is moving forward in the Tennessee General Assembly. House Bill 1562 designates the “Volunteer State” as the official nickname of Tennessee. While Tennessee has held this distinction since 1812, it is not currently documented in state law. The state of Tennessee has been referred […]
Representative Faison Files Proposed Legislation to Protect Farm Tourism Businesses from Liability
State Representative Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby) has filed proposed legislation to protect agritourism businesses from claims of property damage by participants. The proposed legislation amends a Title 43 law that was enacted as part of a sweeping tort reform movement in 2009. House Bill 2371 strengthens protections that were previously enacted to create immunity from liability […]
