Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced a special session of the Tennessee General Assembly, scheduled to begin on Monday, January 27. The session aims to pass the Education Freedom Act and introduce a disaster relief legislative package to address recovery needs from Hurricane Helene and future natural disasters. Additionally, public safety measures concerning illegal immigration will be discussed as the state prepares for potential policy changes under the incoming Trump Administration.
A joint statement from Governor Lee, along with Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, House Speaker Cameron Sexton, Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, and House Majority Leader William Lamberth, emphasized the importance of addressing these pressing issues. They highlighted the widespread support for the Education Freedom Act and the necessity of providing a comprehensive relief package for areas affected by natural disasters like Hurricane Helene.
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The Education Freedom Act, introduced on November 6, 2024, aims to provide Tennessee children with school choices irrespective of their income or location. It includes establishing Education Freedom Scholarships and additional investments in public schools and teachers, such as teacher bonuses, increased funding for K-12 facilities, and maintaining state funding levels for school districts despite changes in enrollment. Governor Lee and the General Assembly have committed to further investing in the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) formula and raising starting teacher pay. More information can be found at TNEducationFreedom.com.
In response to Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage in at-risk counties with estimated costs of $1.2 billion, Governor Lee is proposing a legislative and budgetary plan for recovery and future preparedness. The proposed plan allocates over $450 million for direct disaster relief. Specific components include a Disaster Relief Grants (DRG) Fund, a Hurricane Helene Interest Payment Fund, a Governor’s Response and Recovery Fund, and funding for rebuilding Hampton High School in Carter County. Detailed information is available in the comprehensive plan.
The session will also address public safety measures in relation to illegal immigration, aligning with federal policy changes. This follows Governor Lee’s directive to state agencies to prepare for supporting national border security efforts.
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TDEC Lifts Water Advisory Post-Hurricane Helene
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has lifted a water contact advisory for several river watersheds, initially put in place due to Hurricane Helene’s flooding. TDEC Commissioner David Salyers confirmed that water quality has returned to pre-hurricane levels after testing. While efforts to clean flood debris continue, TDEC reports no current risks in fish consumption and will continue regular fish tissue monitoring, with results available on the TDEC website.