Archive for March 2019
Bill to expand absentee vote by mail rights clears committee
A proposal to expand Tennessee’s limited absentee vote by mail program was approved by a House committee. House Bill 965, sponsored by Rep. Harold Love, D-Nashville, District 54, would allow Tennesseans who are qualified to vote absentee by mail to do so immediately. The measure would require absentee voters to submit an acceptable photo ID…
Read MoreNet neutrality bill, aimed at protecting small business innovation, dies in subcommittee
Net neutrality is an issue that extends far beyond Tennessee, but could have major implications for Tennessee business owners. Under current state laws, there are no net neutrality rules. With net neutrality rules, major broadband internet providers like Comcast Xfinity and AT&T are classified as “common carriers.” The distinction means internet service providers must treat…
Read MoreBill to override school boards on new charter school applications advances
Legislation allowing charter school operators to set up in any Tennessee county without local school board approval advanced through a House subcommittee Wednesday, March 13. The proposal, House Bill 940 sponsored by Rep. Mark White, R-Memphis, District 83, would create a new state-run charter school commission with the authority to skip any approval from local…
Read MoreHouse approves bill to eliminate subpoena power from police community oversight boards
Debate moves to the full Tennessee Senate A proposal to eliminate subpoena power from police community oversights boards passed the Tennessee House on a 66-26 vote. A police community oversight board has operated — with subpoena power — in Knoxville, Tenn. for two decades with no interference from the state legislature. State lawmakers only seem to…
Read More