What's New on the Hill - December 15, 2023
Celebrating Two Decades of Excellence
Today marks a truly special occasion for us at Harris Frazier Government Relations - the 20th anniversary of Meagan Frazier’s exceptional tenure with our team. For two decades, Meagan has been the cornerstone of our firm, exemplifying leadership, expertise, and a deep commitment to our mission. Her journey, intertwined with the evolving landscape of Tennessee's political and legislative spheres, has been nothing short of inspiring.
From navigating complex governmental corridors to advocating impactful policies, Meagan's role has been pivotal in shaping not just our firm's success but also contributing significantly to the public discourse in Tennessee.
As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on the numerous achievements and the remarkable impact of Meagan's heart and generosity, reinforcing our firm’s ethos and values.
Please join us in congratulating Meagan’s 20th anniversary with Harris Frazier Government Relations!
2024 Legislative Session Preview
The One Hundred Thirteenth General Assembly concluded its 2023 session on April 21, 2023, and is set to reconvene on January 9, 2024, at 12:00 noon (CST). As we gear up for the upcoming session, several prominent topics are emerging:
Vouchers: The expansion of Tennessee's private school voucher program proposed by Governor Bill Lee remains a significant discussion point. While Harris Frazier Government Relations is not representing clients either for or against vouchers, we are committed to providing factual and informative updates on this topic.
Certificate of Need Laws: Expect discussions on Certificate of Need laws, with representation for the interests of HCA, who supports eliminating these laws in favor of a more robust licensing process.
Collateral Source Law: An anticipated legal change arises from a Supreme Court decision on collateral source. While details are forthcoming, this topic is expected to be of interest to businesses and trial lawyers.
As the legislative session progresses, more issues will undoubtedly come to the forefront. Stay tuned for updates and insights from our team on these and other legislative matters!
Governor Bill Lee Named RGA Chairman
Governor Bill Lee's recent appointment as Chairman of the Republican Governors Association is a significant achievement for our state and leadership. His new role highlights his commitment to implementing common-sense, policies that drive economic prosperity.
As RGA Chair, Governor Lee will play a crucial role in national policy discourse, bringing his expertise and leadership to the forefront.
This appointment not only reflects his influence in shaping policies but affirms his campaign vision "Tennessee Leading the Nation".
🚨Deadline Approaching 🚨
As we near the end of the year, the Department of Revenue reminds holders of agricultural exemptions to renew their certificates by December 31, 2023. These exemptions, vital for tax-free purchases of agricultural necessities like fertilizer and equipment, are set to expire as the four-year cycle concludes. Renewal can be conveniently done online or by contacting the department directly. This reminder is particularly pertinent for the approximately 110,000 exemption holders in Tennessee, ensuring continued support for our state's agricultural operations. Click here for more details.
Business Tax Threshold Changes under Tennessee Works Tax Act
For the small business owner: under the Tennessee Works Tax Act passed in the 2023 legislative session, it is estimated that over 100,000 registered businesses will no longer have to file business tax.
The legislation raises the threshold for filing to businesses with gross receipts of $100,000 or more per jurisdiction. Local jurisdictions will be held harmless through an adjustment to the business tax state revenue share. This change applies to tax periods ending on or after December 31, 2023. More information is available on the Department of Revenue’s website here.
Empowering Victims with Real-Time Updates
In a significant advancement for justice in Tennessee, victims now receive real-time updates on sexual assault evidence. This development is a major step in supporting survivors and enhancing transparency in the judicial process. The initiative underscores our state's commitment to victim empowerment and judicial transparency. It aims to provide timely information to victims, ensuring they are informed and supported throughout the legal process. This is a critical move towards more compassionate and effective handling of sexual assault cases.
Education Freedom Scholarship Act of 2024
Governor Bill Lee's announcement of the Education Freedom Scholarship Act of 2024 marks a new era in Tennessee's educational landscape.
TN.GOV - November 28, 2023
Holiday Cheer at Tennessee's Christmas Tree Farms
Tennessee's Christmas tree farms offer much more than just trees; they provide a comprehensive holiday experience for families. Commissioner Charlie Hatcher highlights the importance of these farms in creating a festive atmosphere with various activities, from wagon rides to visits with Santa.
TN.GOV - November 30, 2023
Anticipating a Transformative 2024 with the Start of Tennessee's Legislative Session on January 9th
Tennessee gears up for a legislative session marked by transformative educational debates, beginning January 9th.
Tennessee Teachers Face Paycheck Dues Deduction Ban Following Court Ruling
A recent court ruling in Tennessee has made a significant change for teachers statewide. The decision now prohibits the Tennessee Education Association from deducting membership dues directly from teachers' paychecks. This ruling aligns with a law also aiming to raise minimum teacher salaries to $50,000 by the 2026-27 school year. This development marks a notable shift in the state's approach to teacher advocacy and compensation, potentially impacting both the financial and professional landscape for educators in Tennessee.
APNEWS.COM - August 1, 2023
Tennessee's Union Landscape Faces Changes with New Legislative Bills
Two significant bills are reshaping the union environment. HB 1342, introduced by Speaker Cameron Sexton, requires secret ballots for unionizing in state-funded companies, aiming to prevent worker intimidation. Meanwhile, SB 281 couples teacher pay raises with a clause barring union dues from teacher paychecks. These legislative moves reflect Tennessee's evolving approach to labor rights and union activities, sparking debate among lawmakers and stakeholders about the state's labor policies and business climate.
NEWSCHANNEL5.COM - March 25, 2023