Nashville, Tenn. – A state Senate bill sponsored by Sen. Jack Johnson R-Franklin would place at-risk juveniles who are in need of “heightened supervision” in secure facilities across the state. Minors who have threatened someone with murder, rape, and other bodily harm or who have a history of these crimes would be placed in secure…
Voucher expansion bill advances in the General Assembly
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee lawmakers are considering legislation that would expand the number of Education Freedom Scholarships available to students across the state. The scholarships are widely known as vouchers to attend private school. HB 2532 and its companion bill in the state Senate would increase the maximum number of scholarships that may be awarded in the…
Tennessee bill expanding death penalty to child rape cases advances at the Capitol
NASHVILLE, TN — State lawmakers are moving forward with legislation that would expand the state’s death penalty statute to allow the death penalty in certain child rape cases. On Wed. March 11, the House Judiciary Committee advanced House Bill 1454, which would add 12 new aggravating factors to Tennessee law that prosecutors must prove before…
More than 300 Tennessee 4-H students visit the state capitol
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – High school students from across the state gathered at the Capitol this week for the 79th Tennessee 4-H Congress, a premiere citizenship event that gives them an opportunity to learn about state government and civic engagement. The event allows students to take on the roles of senators and representatives, debate mock bills…
ICE arrest exemption for veterans under consideration in Tennessee General Assembly
The Tennessee Veteran Protection and Due Process Act is under debate in the General Assembly this week. If enacted, it would prohibit local and state law enforcement from arresting a suspected undocumented immigrant if they are a U.S. military veteran. HB 1961 and its companion Senate bill would require law enforcement to ask suspects if…