Tennessee Receives Bronze Award from League of American Bicyclists
June 5, 2011
State Rankings Recognize TDOT’s Efforts to Be More Bicycle Friendly
Nashville, TN – The League of American Bicyclists has named Tennessee a Bronze Level Bicycle Friendly State in its fourth annual BFS rankings. The award recognizes the state for its collaboration with local agencies and bicycle advocates, efforts to provide safe routes to school for children who bicycle or walk, and commitment to safety and accommodation of all users.
“I want to congratulate TDOT, members of the General Assembly, and the dozens of local stakeholders who have worked together to achieve this designation,” Haslam said. “As a bicyclist myself, I realize the importance of safety in offering this healthy option as we encourage Tennesseans to take responsibility for their personal health.” [Read more]
Governor & Commissioner Identify Transportation Projects in TDOT’s Region Four for Funding
May 1, 2011
Projects to be funded through Bridge Bonding and Traditional Funds
Nashville, TN – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Transportation Commissioner John Schroer today released the three-year transportation program, which includes the completion of several major strategic corridor projects and the state’s Better Bridges bonding program.
The three year program includes $1.7 billion for highways and bridges to fund more than 152 individual project phases in 59 Tennessee counties. The proposal, which has been presented to the Tennessee General Assembly, includes significant highway and bridge projects in TDOT’s Region Two. [Read more]
Report highlights importance of Family Engagement in Education
July 12, 2010
Students perform better in the classroom when their families and their schools forge strong partnerships, according to a new report released today by the Comptroller’s Offices of Research and Education Accountability.
The report, titled “Family Engagement in Education,” notes that while it is difficult to precisely measure the benefits of family involvement on student achievement, studies have suggested there is a positive relationship.
Students with more engaged families tend to attend school more frequently, make better grades and graduate to higher levels of education. Those students are generally more likely to have better behavior and social skills as well. [Read more]
Tennessee General Assembly passes law targeting unscrupulous contractors
July 7, 2010
Representative Bill Dunn (R-Knoxville) and House Budget Subcommittee Chairman Harry Tindell (D-Knoxville) held a press conference in Knoxville today to discuss House Bill 2625, which aims to protect homeowners against unscrupulous contractors.
Prior to passage of the bill, contractors that left homeowners high and dry by taking payment but not completing work was only a civil offense, meaning that victims could only attempt to recoup losses through a lawsuit. The new law passed championed by Dunn and Tindell, however, treats the offense as theft, making it a criminal charge punishable by jail time. Targeted homeowner Mike Townsend joined the State Representatives in a press conference Wednesday to share his story. [Read more]
Tax relief for victims of the flood
June 17, 2010
Important Information regarding Tax Relief that may soon be available to Individuals affected by Flooding
New legislation passed by the General Assembly is expected to provide Tennessee sales tax relief for qualified individuals affected by the recent severe storms and flooding who must replace damaged or destroyed items. Eligible items include major appliances and residential furniture used in the individual’s primary residence with a purchase price of $3,200 or less per item, and building supplies used for restoration of the individual’s primary residence with a purchase price of $500.00 or less per item.
Individuals receiving disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as a result of the severe storms and flooding that occurred in Tennessee between May 1st, 2010 and May 8th, 2010, may request a refund of Tennessee sales tax paid on eligible items purchased between May 1st, 2010 and September 30th, 2010. [Read more]
Governor Bredesen announces Grant for the Henry County Airport
May 28, 2010
Grant Awarded Through TDOT’s Aeronautics Division
Nashville, TN — Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that a federal aeronautics grant in the amount of $135,000 has been approved for the Henry County Airport.
“Local airports are vital to the economy and travel system of Tennessee,” said Bredesen. “Investing in our airports helps them stay competitive and efficient at meeting the needs of businesses and travelers. I’m pleased to support this investment in the Henry County Airport.”
Funds from this aeronautics grant will be used to refurbish a T-hangar at the airport. [Read more]
Rep. Brian Kelsey files legislation to elect Attorney General
February 18, 2009
State Representative Brian Kelsey
NASHVILLE– Representative Brian Kelsey (R-Germantown) filed a constitutional amendment today to require the Attorney General of Tennessee to be elected by the people. Currently, Tennessee is the only state in the nation in which the Supreme Court appoints the Attorney General. Forty-three states elect the attorney general.
“The people need a voice in the Attorney General’s office,” stated Rep. Kelsey. “By electing the Attorney General, the public can rest assured that the Attorney General is independent from the Judiciary and politically accountable to the voters.”
The constitutional amendment states that the Attorney General would be popularly elected and would hold office for a term of four years.
“Right now the Attorney General is twice removed from being accountable to the people,” said Rep. Kelsey. [Read more]
