What's New On The Hill 09/26/2024
Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by Hurricane Helene. Let us stand together in support and solidarity as these communities face this challenging time.
Tennessee's Revenue Surges in August Despite Declining Corporate Tax Collections
Tennessee’s revenue saw a boost in August, largely due to a surge in sales tax collections. However, business tax revenues have continued to fall short, impacted by a $5.6 billion tax break passed earlier this year, which led to a 32.5% decline in corporate tax collections. While sales tax revenues rose by 3.19%, concerns are growing about the state’s increased reliance on consumer taxes. Lawmakers are debating whether the state’s tax policy changes have created long-term financial risks, as fiscal experts warn about the imbalance between corporate and sales tax reliance.
This September, join Tennessee Serves in supporting our state parks. By volunteering, we can help preserve and protect these natural resources, ensuring future generations can experience the wonders of our great outdoors.
Find a volunteer opportunity near you and learn more about how you can contribute by visiting the website.
It's apple picking time in Tennessee!
Fall is here, and it's the perfect season for apple picking in Tennessee! Spend a fun-filled day with family and friends at some of our state's finest orchards, where you can pick fresh, delicious apples right from the trees.
Representative-elect Renea Jones recently visited Frontier Health, a member agency of the Tennessee Association of Mental Health Organizations (TAMHO). During her visit, Jones met with CEO Kristie Hammonds and the dedicated team at Frontier Health to learn more about the essential behavioral health services provided to the Upper East Tennessee community.
Governor Bill Lee has announced that Orano USA will invest in a multi-billion-dollar uranium enrichment facility in Oak Ridge, marking the largest investment in Tennessee's history. The 750,000-square-foot facility will create over 300 jobs and significantly boost the state's nuclear energy sector.
Supported by Tennessee's Nuclear Energy Fund, which aims to attract nuclear companies and enhance education programs, the facility will reinforce Tennessee's leadership in nuclear energy and support America's drive for energy independence.
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee announced that the state will not move forward with plans to build a new psychiatric hospital on state-owned land at Moccasin Bend in Chattanooga. Initial findings from an ongoing archeological review revealed that 73% of the site contains significant historical and pre-contact artifacts. The state will seek alternative locations for the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute replacement facility while continuing to provide services at the existing location. The final report is expected in November.
IN THE NEWS
Senators Push for Increased Legislative Oversight of the VA
Tennessee Sen. Marsha Blackburn joins 14 cosponsors pushing for stronger oversight and accountability for the Veterans Administration.
THECENTERSQUARE.COM - Sept. 25, 2024
BNA Ranked Among the Best Large Airports in the Country
Nashville International Airport (BNA) has been ranked among the best large airports in the country, according to the JD Power Satisfaction Survey.
WKRN.COM - Sept. 22, 2024
New Tennessee law requires ‘voter-verifiable paper audit trail’ to improve election integrity
Tennessee has many checks and balances to ensure the state has accurate and trustworthy elections, including a law that took effect in Jan. 2024 that requires election commissions to produce voter-verifiable paper audit trails.
WKRN.COM - Sept. 19, 2024
Sen. Joey Hensley offers round-up of laws passed during legislative session
The 113th General Assembly has adjourned for 2024, and it was a very successful year. We have taken measures for Tennessee to be a better place to live, work and to raise a family.
COLUMBIADAILYHERALD.COM- Sept. 06, 2024
Tennessee ‘closer’ to resuming executions after more than two-year pause
Governor Bill Lee said he suspects the state is “closer than further” from having a new death penalty protocol in place, which is required before Tennessee can resume executions amid a two-year pause.
WKRN.COM - Sept. 03, 2024
'Tennessee Three' member urges young Democrats to vote against reversion: 'Not going back'
A Tennessee state legislator expelled from, then reinstated to that state’s General Assembly stumped for the Democratic presidential ticket here Thursday, focusing on young voters at two area colleges with this message: “We’re not going back.”
PROGRESS-INDEX.COM - Sept. 06, 2024
'Tennessee State Parks Hosts Tennessee Serves, National Public Lands Day Work Events
Tennessee State Parks will join First Lady Maria Lee’s Tennessee Serves initiative Sept. 19-29 with volunteer work events at parks across the state. The volunteer opportunities coincide with National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 28.
TN.GOV - Sept. 06, 2024
New laws from General Assembly protect property owners, improve public safety
Tennessee lawmakers passed legislation in 2024 to protect Tennessee homeowners from squatters by establishing a clear and expedited removal process. Squatting is the illegal practice of occupying a property without the owner’s lawful permission.
HEAHERALDNEWS.COM - Sept. 14, 2024
Hemp growers sue TN Dept. of Agriculture over ’emergency’ rules on hemp-derived products
A collective of hemp growers in the state are suing the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) over what they say is the agency’s abandonment of standard rule-making procedure that affects their business.
WKRN.COM - Sept. 09, 2024