Legislative Leadership Elected for 109th General Assembly

Republican and Democratic Caucuses in both the House and Senate have now elected leadership for the 109th General Assembly, which will convene on January 13, 2015. Perhaps the most-watched race was for the Republican House Speaker nominee, with current House Speaker Beth Harwell being challenged by Rep. Rick Womick (R-Rockvale).  In the House Republican Caucus … Continued

State Issues

Meet the New Members of the Tennessee General Assembly

In last night’s General Election, a total of 23 new members were elected to the Tennessee General Assembly.  We invite you to learn about these new members by utilizing the document below. Click on the center of the document to expand full screen. Please note: This document is based on unofficial election returns provided by … Continued

State Issues

Tennessee Promise Passes House, Heads to Governor’s Desk

The Tennessee Promise Scholarship Act of 2014 was passed by the House of Representatives last night on an 87-8 vote.  Members voting no included Representatives Joe Carr (R-Lascassas), Glen Casada (R-Franklin), Jeremy Durham (R-Franklin), Andy Holt (R-Dresden), Judd Matheny (R-Tullahoma), Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville), Billy Spivey (R-Lewisburg), and Rick Womick (R-Rockvale). The legislation passed in the … Continued

State Issues

Senate, House Committee Assignments Made

House Speaker Beth Harwell (R-Nashville) and Lieutenant Governor Ron Ramsey (R-Blountville) announced committee assignments for the 108th General Assembly this morning. In the Senate, Senator Dolores Gresham (R-Somerville) was reappointed as Education Chairman.  Senators Reggie Tate (D-Memphis) and Steve Dickerson (R-Nashville) were named first and second Vice-Chairmen, respectively.  Other members of the Senate Education Committee … Continued

State Issues

Opening Day

UT President Joe DiPietro engaged a number of state lawmakers today, the opening day of the 108th Tennessee General Assembly.  The President makes numerous visits to the State Capitol during the legislative session each year to ensure that the University plays a leading, active role in policy discussions impacting the University of Tennessee System and … Continued

State Issues