FRIDAY, APRIL 27, 2012 Leadership, strategy changes at TN Technology Development Corp. (N.

Biz Journal)
The Tennessee Technology Development Corp. and state government have unveiled a five-year strategic plan to push Gov. Bill Haslam's agenda on business innovation. TTDC will become the "lead advocate for the state's innovation agenda," according to a news release from the state's Department of Economic and Community Development. The new initiative comes as Leslie Wisner-Lynch, TTDCs interim president and CEO, anticipates stepping down by May 31 to pursue other opportunities. The state announced the program, dubbed LaunchTN, as the Republican governor holds an annual innovation conference in downtown Nashville. The following are excerpts from today's announcement: http://www.bizjournals.com/nashville/news/2012/04/26/haslam-hagerty-launchtn-wisner-lynch.html

LaunchTN plan to create jobs (Tennessean/McClain)

Gov. Bill Haslam and the nonprofit Tennessee Technology Development Corp. touted the potential benefits of a five-year program announced Thursday designed to help rising entrepreneurs create more jobs. The initiative, dubbed LaunchTN, anoints the Tennessee Technology Development Corp. as a key advocate for the state governments agenda to promote innovation as way to build a workforce of the future. LaunchTN is another piece in our plan to make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high-quality jobs, Haslam said. This initiative will help set Tennessee apart as a state where entrepreneurship and innovation are valued as key economic development tools. The program was announced during a two-day Governors Innovation Conference that continues today at the War Memorial Auditorium and the nearby Sheraton hotel. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120427/BUSINESS01/304270054/LaunchTN-plan-create-jobs? odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|p

State leaders announce new economic initiative (Nooga)

State leaders announced a new five-year economic initiative called LaunchTN on Thursday. LaunchTN is another piece in our plan to make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high-quality jobs, Gov. Bill Haslam said in a prepared statement. This initiative will help set Tennessee apart as a state where entrepreneurship and innovation are valued as key economic development tools in our effort to make our state even more business-friendly. The Tennessee Technology Development Corporation will be the lead advocate for this program. Under LaunchTN, the Tennessee Technology Development Corporation will also develop and begin a new Governors Fellows Program, which aims to bring together high-profile, successful business people with rising entrepreneurs for mentorship opportunities. http://www.nooga.com/155035/state-leaders-announce-new-economic-initiative/

Domestic violence center helps victims move on with lives (Tennessean/Haas)

Charmaine Bradford endured more than a year of the abuse. He controlled her, threatened her. Pushed her, choked her. And she thought she had no way out. I felt as though I had no one but the Lord, she said. On April 29, 2011, she says the Lord saved her when her boyfriend pulled a 12-gauge shotgun, told her she would never leave him and fired a shot into her face. He racked another shell and fired a second shot into her shoulder as she tried to call 911. She collapsed into a bloody heap, able to see her own skin and bone hanging from her body Gov. Bill Haslam, who attended the opening, has focused mainly on harsher punishments for repeat offenders with mandatory jail sentences, a measure that is awaiting state senate approval. On Thursday, he

acknowledged after the ceremony that while the state is helping the Family Safety Center with funding to the tune of $78,000, victims services arent likely to get any more money this year. I think obviously were in the last stages of working out this years budget and so I dont know that therell be any change this year, Haslam said. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120427/NEWS01/304270065/Domestic-violence-centerhelps-victims-move-lives

New Resource for Domestic Violence Victims (W REG-TV Memphis)

Many of Gwen Turners scars are physical. I have scars I will take to my grave. I have cigarette burns on my backside. I have 20 percent of hearing in one ear, Turner said. But Turner said her emotional scars run deep. It was not easy to tell somebody Im getting beat for breakfast lunch and dinner, she said. I lived under this mask for over 20 years. My parents never knew. But eight years ago Gwen went from victim to survivor. Today she works helping other women at Shelby Countys new Family Safety Center. Its a place where victims of family violence can find easy access to all the agencies they need when coming forward as a victim of abuse. I want women to know you can get out, you can remain beautiful ,and you can make a new life for yourself. So thats the reason the Family Safety Center was so needed, she said. Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam was on hand for the Family Safety Centers grand opening. We rank 5th in the nation that are homicide victims killed at the hands of men and that is why facilities like this one and what we are doing with domestic violence penalties are so important, Haslam said. He promised $78,5000 in Financial support from the state. http://wreg.com/2012/04/26/new-resource-for-domestic-violence-victims/

State tests count more than ever (Chattanooga Times Free-Press/Hardy)

Standardized tests have put pressure on teachers, school districts and states for years. But this year, some of that pressure is on the backs of Tennessee students. New legislation requires schools to factor test results into students grades. W hile its been a long-standing practice for high school students, this is the first year the tests have counted for elementary students, who take assessments in grades four through eight. Educators have tried to raise student test scores since the 2001 No Child Left Behind Act and its stringent benchmarks were implemented. Now students are sharing some of that burden. Now everybodys involved and everybodys got a stake, said Kirk Kelly, director of accountability and testing for Hamilton County Schools. Theyve always had a personal stake, but now its going to impact them in some way. In the past, end-of-course exams have counted for 20 percent of a students grade in each tested course. This year, that percentage increases to 25 percent of a students second-semester grade when high schoolers take their exams in early May. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/apr/27/state-tests-count-more-ever/?local

State Assigns More Than 200 Top Teachers to Ease Transition to Standards (TNR)
The Tennessee Department of Education is putting the work of the Common Core transition into the hands of those who know best the states top teachers. As Tennessee gears up to implement the Common Core State Standards in grades 3-8 math next school year, more than 200 teachers from across the state will spend their summer as Core Coaches, helping colleagues in their districts navigate the transition to the rigorous standards. This is an exciting moment for Tennessee as we take the important concepts of the Common Core State Standards directly to classroom teachers where they will have the biggest impact for children, said Emily Barton, assistant commissioner for curriculum and instruction for the Tennessee Department of Education. More than 400 teachers applied to be Core Coaches, and the 205 chosen went through a rigorous application process. http://tnreport.com/blog/2012/04/26/state-assigns-more-than-200-top-teachers-to-ease-transition-to-newstandards/

Tennessee gets grant for college readiness (Commercial Appeal/Roberts)

To help 7th-graders be prepared, stay in Tennessee and six other states have been awarded competitive grants to coach students who typically do not go to college into the ranks. The state received $29.5 million in a Gear Up grant from the U.S. Department of Education. The money will be used over seven years to help 7,500 students in next fall's seventh-grade class get to college and stay beyond the first year, according to Troy Grant with the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. "We are mapping out the process now for how schools will apply," he said. The announcements will be made in late summer. Other recipients are Arizona, Connecticut, North Carolina, Nevada, Texas and New Mexico. In Tennessee, schools will be expected to show not only how they will help students be academically ready for college, but also how they will provide mentors and help with ACT 2

preparation and college applications. To qualify, at least 50 percent of a school's students must qualify for free or reduced-price lunches. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/27/tenn-gets-grant-for-college-readiness/ (SUBSCRIPTION)

Governor Signs Saggy Pants Bill (Associated Press)

A proposal that would prohibit students from dressing in an "indecent manner" at school has been signed by the governor. Gov. Bill Haslam signed the measure this week. The legislation prohibits students from exposing "underwear or body parts in an indecent manner that disrupts the learning environment." A stricter version of the proposal failed to pass the Legislature three years ago. That measure targeted individuals who wear pants below the waistline and imposed a fine of up to $250 and 160 hours of community service. Under the current legislation, school districts would decide a less severe punishment. The Republican governor earlier this month cited coverage of the saggy pants bill as an example of what he called the media's failure to pay attention to substantive measures. http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2012/apr/27/governor-signs-saggy-pants-bill/

Rogersville woman charged with TennCare fraud (Johnson City Press)

A Hawkins County woman has been arrested for TennCare fraud after allegedly "doctor shopping" to acquire a painkiller, using the state's insurance program to pay for the drugs. Lisa Faye Burchfield, 54, of 1712 East Main Street, # C, Rogersville, was arrested Wednesday by the Hawkins County Sheriff's Office. A warrant for her arrest was obtained following an her indictment by a grand jury. A press release from the state says Burchfield, "is accused of fraudulently using TennCare to obtain controlled substances by seeing more than one doctor in order to get prescriptions for the painkiller Hydrocodone, and using TennCare to pay for the drugs." http://www.johnsoncitypress.com/News/article.php?id=99948#ixzz1tElPmWZJ

Rogersville woman charged with doctor shopping (W VLT-TV Knoxville)

A 54 year-old Hawkins Co. woman is facing up to two years behind bars after being accused of "doctor shopping," according to the Office of Inspector General's office. Lisa Faye Burchfield is accused of going from doctor to doctor to get prescriptions for the painkiller Hydrocodone and using TennCare to pay for the drugs, an OIG spokesperson explained. The unauthorized use and abuse of prescription drugs is a serious public health and criminal threat, Inspector General Deborah Faulkner said. We are committed to ensuring TennCare benefits are used properly and we will continue to aggressively go after anyone who is misusing this vital program. The OIG estimates that since February 2005 it has investigated cases that have led to the over $3.5 million in restitution and recoupment to TennCare and helped save the program over $173 million. http://www.volunteertv.com/news/headlines/Rogersville_woman_charged_with_doctor_shopping_149122955.ht ml?ref=955

Tick-borne

Rocky

Mountain

spotted

fever

cases

jump

in

TN

(Tennessean/Wilemon)
Cases of tick-borne Rocky Mountain spotted fever are up 533 percent this spring compared to the same period last year, the Tennessee Department of Health said Thursday. The state agency is advising people to take extra precautions when outdoors. A mild winter and a warmer-than-normal March brought out ticks earlier this year. W eve documented 38 cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, compared with only six by the same time last year, said Abelardo Moncayo, with the agencys division of communicable and enviromental diseases. Symptoms usually appear two to 14 days after a bite from an infected tick. They begin with fever and headache. Other symptoms include vomiting, muscle pain, lack of appetite and severe headache. Later-stage symptoms include rash, abdominal pain, joint pain and diarrhea. Rocky Mountain spotted fever can be a severe or even fatal illness if not treated in the first few days of symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Doxycycline, the first-line treatment, is most effective if started before the fifth day of symptoms. Parents are urged to check children for ticks after they have played outdoors. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120427/NEWS21/304260116/Tick-borne-Rocky-Mountain-spotted-fevercases-jump-TN?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|News

TBI to accept unwanted prescription drugs Saturday (City Paper)

On Saturday the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation will have a collection point at its headquarters for anyone 3

who wants to properly dispose of expired, unused and unwanted prescription medications. As part of the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day sponsored by the Drug Enforcement Administration the free event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 901 R.S. Gass Blvd. in Nashville. There, the public can anonymously drop off unwanted prescription drugs for safe disposal that would otherwise be potentially dangerous if left in a medicine cabinet. In October, more than 377,000 pounds of prescription medications were collected nationwide at 5,327 take-back sites across the U.S. The take-back initiative is meant to prevent prescription drug diversion and the improper disposal of prescription drugs. http://nashvillecitypaper.com/content/city-news/tbi-accept-unwanted-prescription-drugs-saturday

Unicoi welcome center to be named for late Rep. W hitson (Johnson City Press)
Those close to him and those who worked with him agree that the efforts of the late Zane Whitson were instrumental in bringing a Tennessee welcome center to Unicoi County. Later this week, the facility that Whitson worked to bring here will officially be named for him. The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and the Tennessee Department of Transportation have announced that a public rededication ceremony in honor of Whitson will be held this Friday at the Unicoi County Welcome Center beginning at 11 a.m. A plaque that reads Zane W hitson Welcome Center has been mounted adjacent to the centers main entrance ahead of the ceremony. State officials are set to give remarks at Fridays event, but on Tuesday, local officials and fellow legislators who worked with Whitson, as well as family members, took time to reflect on Whitsons work and the man himself. The consensus among them is that the naming of the welcome center in Whitsons honor is deserved. I think its very well-deserved, said Don Whitson, Zane W hitsons brother. I think he earned it with what he did for the area and fighting for that. He died before it was ever built, but he sure put in a lot of effort on it. http://www.johnsoncitypress.com/News/article.php?id=99916#ixzz1tEljc2kT

House OKs Haslam budget, minus projects (Associated Press)

The House on Thursday passed Gov. Bill Haslam's $31.4 billion spending plan after rejecting efforts to restore funding for several programs and to make a greater reduction in the state's sales tax on groceries. The chamber voted 66-30 to pass the bill. It excludes $125,000 for the Memphis Oral School for the Deaf, $200,000 in "seed money" to help Somerville plan a higher education facility, and five other projects that are in the Senate version of the budget. The Senate has yet to vote on its version, and the two chambers will have to reconcile differences before the measure can head to Haslam for his signature. Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris of Collierville called the disagreement a "misunderstanding" over whether projects are local or regional in nature. "If they don't get comfortable that those are significantly important projects, then we'll go to a conference committee," said Norris, R-Collierville. "It's no big deal. Just takes more time. " Haslam in January presented his spending proposal that called for raises for state employees, more spending on construction on college campuses and tax cuts on food and estates. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/27/house-oks-haslam-budgetminus-projects/ (SUB)

TN House passes state budget (Tennessean/Sisk)

The state House of Representatives passed the states $30 billion budget Thursday afternoon, after a lengthy and emotional battle over the fate of a youth prison. House lawmakers approved the 2012-13 budget 66-30 in almost a party-line vote, with Republicans on the winning end. Approval came after more than 3 hours of debate, much of it over whether to go ahead with plans to close the Taft Youth Development Center in Bledsoe County. The vote clears away a major hurdle to passage of the budget, but an even bigger one still lies ahead. Under pressure from Democrats and rank-and-file Republicans, the House budget leaves out several pet projects that appear in the Republican-authored Senate version. That could set up another running of the nearly annual showdown between the two chambers over which projects get funded and which get left aside in the measure that ultimately goes to Gov. Bill Haslam for signature. The House-approved budget by and large follows the plan that Haslam presented in January. The governor called for across-the-board raises for state employees, the restoration of $120 million in programs scheduled to be cut and putting $50 million back in the states rainyday fund. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120427/NEWS0201/304260125/TN-House-passes-state-budget? odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

House OKs Taft closure (Chattanooga Times Free-Press/Sher)

4

A budget amendment aimed at blocking Republican Gov. Bill Haslam's closing of Taft Youth Development Center temporarily threw the House into a tizzy Thursday. But the effort to save Taft eventually failed on a 60-38 vote. The Republican-controlled chamber also defeated several Democratic attempts to change the budget and later approved Haslam's proposed $31.4 billion spending plan on a 66-30 vote. The House version, however, has ignited a furor in the Senate because it deletes several Senate Republican "pork barrel" projects. Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey, R-Blountville, has accused House Republicans of going back on an agreement. That is complicating final passage of the 2012-13 budget by the Senate for the time being. Senators adjourned for the day without acting on the budget. Earlier in the House, Rep. Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, pushed his amendment restoring nearly $12 million in funding for Taft, a 96-bed facility in Pikeville, which employs about 170 guards, teachers and other personnel. Haslam and Children's Services Commissioner Kathryn O'Day say Taft is inefficient, has highest costs per day of the state's five youth development centers and its tough teen residents can be moved to the other four centers. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/apr/27/house-oks-taftclosure/?local

House passes $31 billion state budget, still at odds with Senate (NS/Humphrey)
House Republicans on Thursday soundly defeated a raft of Democratic attempts to revise their plans for state spending of $31.4 billion in the coming year and, by a closer margin, put down a rebellion against closing the Taft Youth Center. The result was a 66-39 vote for HB3835, the budget bill submitted by Gov. Bill Haslam. It includes virtually everything that Haslam wanted, along with some additions. The additions, however, are in conflict with Senate plans and leave uncertain the prospects for enactment of the budget in time to adjourn the 107th General Assembly this week as leaders had planned. The Senate will take up the budget today. As approved in committee, it includes several special projects that the House has axed. The longest debate in the House if not the most heated came on an effort led by Rep. Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, to block Haslam's plans to close the facility for juvenile offenders in Bledsoe County. The governor says it will save taxpayer money to send young inmates at the center to other juvenile facilities across the state. Sexton and others argued that the move will mean laying off about 150 employees who are running a facility that is designed for the "worst of the worst" juvenile offenders and, at the same time, has the best success rate in rehabilitation. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/apr/27/house-passes-31-billion-state-budget-still-at/

TN House, Senate at odds over $31B budget (Nashville Business Journal)

Tennessee Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey is accusing the House of deal breaking, after House members voted to nix several Senate-approved projects from the proposed $31 billion state budget, Knoxville News Sentinel reports. The House Finance Committee approved Wednesday several amendments from House Speaker Emeritus Jimmy Naifeh, D-Covington, that nixed funding for local projects several members considered to be "pork barrel." In retaliation, Ramsey said the Senate may now revisit the budget in search of other so-called local projects that could be cut including $25 million for the W est Tennessee Megasite. "(T)hey want local, well give them local," Ramsey said in the News Sentinel. With the flare up over the budget, Ramsey said lawmakers may miss their goal of ending the legislative session by Friday. http://www.bizjournals.com/nashville/morning_call/2012/04/tn-house-senate-at-odds-over-31b.html

Squabble Over State Spending on Local Projects Slows Down Budget Talks (TNR)
Legislative bickering over special pork barrel spending amendments to Gov. Bill Haslams proposed $31 million-plus budget brought progress on Tennessees state government spending plan to a temporary standstill Wednesday. Budget talks in the House ground to a crawl when Democrats on the chambers Finance W ays and Means Committee began to challenge some of the funding requests made by Republicans in the Senate. In fact, hints of what lay in store started to emerge Tuesday evening during a House finance subcommittee meeting when Democratic Leader Craig Fitzhugh complained that Republicans seemed to be backtracking on their stated desire to avoid doling out greater-than-expected tax-collection revenues on spending projects that dont benefit the state as a whole. Fitzhugh groused through his Twitter account that a lot of additional spending had started accumulating on the proposed budget that seemed to him geared toward delivering funds to pet projects in Republican districts: http://tnreport.com/blog/2012/04/26/squabble-over-state-spending-on-local-projects-slows-down-budget-talks/

House Members Spar Over Budget Cut to Youth Development Center (W PLN5

Radio)
Debate on the state budget shuttered to a halt in the House today. The Governors proposed budget would close Taft Youth Development Center, a maximum security facility in Bledsoe County. The cut upset Democrats and rank-and-file Republicans. Republican Cameron Sexton tried to add back the funding for the Taft Youth Development Center in his district. Democrats and some Republicans voted with Sexton and refused to back down from the House Republican leadership. Finance Chairman Charles Sargent chided the offending members after two test votes went against him. This may be fun and games to a lot of people. People need to start studyingwhat theyre doing. Leaving the Taft Center open was favored by juvenile judges and by the Tennessee Sheriffs Association. Representative Eddie Bass, a former sheriff, argued that Taft is the best and most secure facility for the worst of the worst inmates of the Childrens Services Department. http://wpln.org/? p=36613

House Republicans defeat accelerating cuts to sales tax on groceries (TFP/Sher)

House Republicans today defeated Democrats efforts to accelerate cuts to the states sales tax on groceries. The proposal was tabled on a 62-33 vote. The bill dealt with legislation affecting the state budget. Minority Leader Craig Fitzhugh, D-Ripley, earlier argued for the amendment, saying he doesnt think Republican Gov. Bill Haslams plan for reducing the states sales tax on groceries goes far enough. Haslam is proposing to cut the tax from 5.5 percent to 5.25 percent in the budget taking affect July 1. Then, Haslam plans to reduce it another quarter cent in the 2013-2014 budget. Fitzhughs plan reduces it to 5 percent this year and ultimately down to 4 percent over the next three years. Fitzhugh said the number of people affected by Haslam and fellow Republicans proposals to eliminate the gift tax and phase out the inheritance tax doesnt compare to the 6.4 million Tennesseans affected by the sales tax on food. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/apr/26/tennessee-house-republicans-defeat-accelerating-cu/?local

House approves procedural bill on municipal school districts (C. Appeal/Locker)

The state House of Representatives approved one of two municipal school district bills Thursday night after a vigorous debate that included assertions it will lead to racial re-segregation of schools in Shelby County. The bill won Senate approval April 2, but goes back to that chamber for likely approval of a House amendment that alters its effective date. Also, a House-Senate conference committee agreed Thursday on a separate bill to allow referendums this year in the Memphis suburbs on creating new municipal school districts. It is expected to be voted on today. Despite the rhetoric, Senate Bill 2908 as approved Thursday night appears to be a backstop for last year's Norris-Todd law lifting the state's ban on new municipal school districts in August 2013 -- the same time specified in Norris-Todd. Although the Senate-approved bill lifts the ban on Jan. 1, 2013, the House amendment lifts it "from and after the effective date of the transfer of the administration of the schools in a special school district to the county board of education...." http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/26/tennessee-house-approves-procedural-bill-municipal/ (SUB)

AG Selection Measure Falls Short (TN Report)

A handful of state Senate Republicans jumped ship and joined ranks with Democrats this week to narrowly defeated a GOP-driven measure to change how the state picks its top lawyer. The proposed constitutional amendment would have stripped away the Supreme Courts power to appoint the attorney general and given it to the governor and the Legislature. The measure fell short by one vote Monday after three Republicans voted against the bill and another two refused to weigh in. This system, whether you agree with it or dont, has functioned well, and its not time to amend it, said Sen. Doug Overbey, R-Maryville, who voted against the measure. As others have said, if it aint broke, dont fix it, and I respectfully submit thats the best response to proposals that would change our Constitution. The attorney general is too far removed from the people as is the Supreme Court, which handpicks the AG, said Sen. Mae Beavers, R-Mt. Juliet, the measures sponsor. The arrangement makes for a conflict of interest any time the attorney general argues before the states highest court, she said. http://tnreport.com/blog/2012/04/26/ag-selection-measure-falls-short/

Judicial selection plan gets House approval (Associated Press)

A proposal to change the Tennessee Constitution to give the legislature power to reject the governor's appointments to the state Supreme Court cleared the House on Thursday. The House voted 70-27 in favor of the resolution. The Senate passed the measure 23-8 earlier this week. Under the current Tennessee judicial 6

selection method, a commission nominates appeals judges and Supreme Court justices, the governor appoints them and voters cast ballots either for or against keeping them on the bench. The resolution would have to be again approved by both chambers by a two-thirds majority within the next two-year General Assembly before it could be put before the voters in 2014. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/27/house-oks-haslam-budget-minus-projects/ (SUBSCRIPTION)

Backers of Judge Amendment Expect Fight Over Popular Elections (WPLN)

A proposal that would allow legislators to confirm appointed judges is alive for next years General Assembly. House leaders also expect one last try to create a completely different system. The House approved Republican Jon Lundbergs proposal for a constitutional amendment. It would allow the governor to appoint, and the legislature confirm, appellate judges. To be on the ballot beforeTennessee voters in 2014, the legislature would have to approve the amendments language again next year. But Representative Lundberg told his colleague that the he also expects to see a push next year for a system that would mandate the direct election of judges. I would expect the next session, several bills to be introduced to change the way we do this, right now, election. A bill to enact popular election of appellate judges died of neglect in the House this year. But election of judges is a key rallying point for conservatives, and is expected to be used as an issue in Republican legislative primaries this August. http://wpln.org/?p=36589

Imitation Drug Bills Headed to Governor (Associated Press)

Proposals that increase penalties for making or selling imitation drugs are headed to the governor for his signature. Both proposals, which are similar, unanimously passed the Senate on Wednesday. The measures, which are part of Gov. Bill Haslam's crime package, were also unanimously approved in the House. One imitation drug authorities are trying to crack down on is called bath salts. Sponsors say the drug is not marketed for ingestion and can be purchased in convenience and tobacco stores. The bills would allow authorities to declare the stores where the drugs are sold as public nuisances. http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2012/apr/27/imitation-drug-bills-headed-to-governor/

Religious Debate in State House Precedes Idling of Anti-All Comers Bill (WPLN)
The state House Thursday night debated how to protect Christian groups from having to follow a university rule intended to prevent discrimination. Both sides claimed Jesus Christ was on their side. But the sponsor finally dropped the bill into parliamentary limbo. Vanderbilt earlier this year told campus organizations they couldnt discriminate when students wanted to join. Christian groups said it kept them for being sure their members and leaders followed the faith. Republican Mark Podys proposed law just told public schools under the states control they couldnt have such a rule. On the House floor Republican Bill Dunn of Knoxville offered an amendment to force Vanderbilt a private school to follow the legislatures wishes too. He points out that the university receives state-funded scholarship money. Dunn also took a dig at Vanderbilt for exempting greek organizations from the policy. And I think Vanderbilts a perfect example of a place where, We dont really care if we screw the religious organizations, but were gonna make sure we take care of our fraternities and sororities because that means something to us. http://wpln.org/?p=36632

State House Poised for Fight Over Vandy Rule (WPLN-Radio Nashville)
Vanderbilt Universitys controversial all-comers rule remains under fire in Tennessees House of Representatives. The policy says campus groups must include members regardless of their beliefs for example a religious group would have to let atheists join, and be eligible for leadership. The House is poised for a vote to bar public universities from adopting all-comers rules of their own. Now a proposed add-on would specifically target Vanderbilt a private school by threatening to cut off money from lottery scholarships. Knoxville Republican Bill Dunn complains the all-comers rule isnt applied evenly, exempting greek organizations. Fraternities and sororities have some power. And they dont want to make certain groups mad, and so theyre willing to go ahead and do things that will hurt some little religious organizations. The House hasnt yet approved the amendment targeting Vanderbilt, but a vote failed to kill it outright. http://wpln.org/?p=36619

Senate OKs Change in Kids Entry Date to Kindergarten (WPLN-Radio Nashville)

The state Senate Thursday night passed a proposed law to change the eligibility date for a child to enter 7

kindergarten. Under the bill, which now goes to the governor for his signature, a child would have to turn 5 years old by August 31st in order to start kindergarten that fall. Currently children born in September can qualify. Now September birthdays will be in the next years class. However, the law change also lets children as young as four enter kindergarten if they score well on a standardized maturity test. http://wpln.org/?p=36630

Bill Seeks to Get Tennesseans Off Unemployment (Associated Press)

A proposal to help Tennesseans get off unemployment and find a job has passed the Senate. The legislation, called the "Tennessee W orks Act," was unanimously approved 33-0 on Wednesday. The companion bill is awaiting a vote in the House Finance Committee. The bill creates a pilot program to provide employers with grants to pay for training expenses for recently laid-off workers or workers whose jobs have gone overseas. In order to continue receiving the grant funds, employers agree to hire a portion of the employees trained. The sponsor of the legislation, Democratic Sen. Andy Berke of Chattanooga, says the bill is proof that Republicans and Democrats "can work together to make Tennessee an even better place to work, play and live." http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2012/apr/27/bill-seeks-to-get-tennesseans-off-unemployment/

Unemployment Overhaul Clears Senate (W PLN-Radio Nashville)

The governor could soon sign off on a bill Tennessees Senate passed the measure, which bill, people collecting unemployment could lose it test, for instance. Those whove been out of work than their old one. http://wpln.org/?p=36626 to overhaul state unemployment compensation. Yesterday House members had already approved a week ago. Under the for a few reasons if they turn down a job offer to avoid a drug for awhile would also have to start looking for jobs that pay less

Welfare Drug Testing Bill Passes Senate (Associated Press)

A measure to require drug testing as a condition for receiving welfare has passed the Senate. The measure sponsored by Republican Sen. Stacey Campfield of Knoxville passed 24-9 Wednesday. The legislation requires new welfare applicants to undergo a special screening process. If suspicion is raised after the screening, then the applicant would be drug tested. The proposal differs from an original version that would have required blanket testing. The state's attorney general opined that approach would be unconstitutional because it would violate applicants' rights not to be drug tested unless there is suspicion they are using drugs. http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2012/apr/27/welfare-drug-testing-bill-passes-senate/

Spinal Injection Rule Nears Passage (W PLN-Radio Nashville)

A proposed new law could put a rift between doctors and those considered mid-level providers such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants. The state Senate today approved tighter rules over who can give injections near a patients spine to treat pain. Some see the issue as a turf fight between doctors and their surrogates. Lawmakers supporting the measure say mid-level providers might lack proper training for spinal injections. So the bill would require supervision from a physician. Critics argue it will make such treatment harder to get in rural areas, because fewer providers will offer it. The measure passed the Senate 20 to 10, and could be up for a vote in the House soon. http://wpln.org/?p=36585

Portion of Tennessee 385 will be named for Governor W infield Dunn (C. Appeal)
To most, it's known as Nonconnah Parkway. But that's not its name. Or one of its four names. Tennessee 385 -the eastern semicircle roadway linking the Memphis suburbs -- was given a fourth name Thursday, thanks to a state Senate bill: the Governor W infield Dunn Parkway. It's in honor of the former Memphis dentist who in 1970 was elected Tennessee's first Republican governor in 50 years. Which name is correct depends on where you are on the roadway. The stretch from U.S. 51 at Millington to near Arlington is designated as Paul W. Barret Parkway, named for a prominent Millington and Shelby County business and government leader. The section between I-240 in Southeast Memphis to Collierville is designated as Bill Morris Parkway after the former Shelby County mayor and sheriff. It was first known as Nonconnah Parkway. And the portion between U.S. 70 near Arlington and U.S. 72 at Collierville is named for Dunn. Part of the section is still under construction, but the stretch between I-40 and Macon Road is open. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/26/portiontennessee-385-will-be-named-governor-winfi/ (SUBSCRIPTION)

Campfield alleges 'crony capitalism' in grants bill (News-Sentinel/Humphrey)

8

Sen. Stacey Campfield cast the sole vote against Gov. Bill Haslam's proposal to begin giving corporations cash grants for expanding or locating in Tennessee after declaring they could be a step toward "crony capitalism." The bill (HB2344) was approved by the Senate 29-1 and now goes to the governor for his signature. It was approved 96-0 in the House. The "FastTrack" grants would be in addition to tax credits and infrastructure improvements that no go to companies moving into Tennessee. Campfield, R-Knoxville, defined crony capitalism in a floor speech as "when governments start using taxpayer dollars to gamble with." Couching some of his comments in the form of questions to the bill's sponsor, Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris of Collierville, Campfield compared the proposal to the national controversy over Solyndra Inc., which received huge federal grants and then went bankrupt. "We (Republicans) all yelled and screamed that was crony capitalism," he said. "Now it's our turn at the trough and we're doing the exact thing with straight cash giveaways." http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/apr/27/legislative-notebook-campfield-alleges-crony-in/

Mallicote kicks off bid to oust Shipley from Tenn. House seat (Times News)
Republican Ben Mallicote kicked off his Tennessee 2nd House District campaign Thursday by getting public support from Kingsport Mayor Dennis Phillips and former Alderman Ken Maness. Mallicote, a former Kingsport alderman, also attacked his GOP primary opponent two-term incumbent Kingsport Republican state Rep. Tony Shipley in front of about 50 supporters at a rally held at the Kingsport Higher Education Center. Maness, a retired radio executive who also serves as chairman of the Tri-Cities Airport Commission, said the legislature needs young leaders like Mallicote. Were not as young as we used to be, Maness said. For some reason, theres been a vacuum in leadership at different levels. ... Were at a difficult crossroads in our state and our community, and we need young leaders with excitement and ideas. Sullivan County Sheriff Wayne Anderson was also among the supporters wearing a Mallicote for State Representative button. But both Maness and Phillips noted its tough to run against an incumbent. Phillips added Mallicote has been part of the community leadership team moving Kingsport forward. http://www.timesnews.net/article/9045867/mallicote-kicks-off-bid-to-oust-shipley-from-tenn-house-seat

Storm rattles Franklin park (Tennessean/Young, Cook)

The storm rushed through in a matter of seconds at Franklins Jim W arren Park on Thursday. Chris Holt was just getting his wife, Leslie, and their two children into their pickup truck to head home after umpires called off the rest of his sons baseball game when the storm came out of nowhere, he said. There was a lot of debris flying around. It wasnt really circular at first, but within a matter of seconds, it became more concentrated, into a defined cone, and a maple tree disintegrated before my eyes, he said. It lasted for about 20 seconds, and then I heard two booms. The booms, it turned out later, were two vehicles overturning, according to Franklin police. A mother and her small child were inside one of the two vehicles and suffered minor injuries, said Franklin Police Sgt. Charles J. Warner. They were taken to a local hospital for treatment. Eric Stuckey, Franklins city administrator, said several other people reported a few scrapes and bruises, but they were not serious enough to warrant a trip to the hospital. It came with very little warning, he said. There were intense winds, and Im not sure if there was a tornado or straight-line winds or what, but I feel blessed that there wasnt more damage or more injuries than there were. Stuckey said about 200 people were at the baseball fields for Thursday night games. All four of the fields had games going just before the storm moved through about 7 p.m. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120427/NEWS01/304270052/Storm-rattles-Franklin-park?odyssey=tab| topnews|text|News

TN consumers happier, but fret about what's ahead in 6 months (TN/McClain)

MTSU survey shows mixed outlook on U.S., local economy Talk about a split personality, but at least its largely a more optimistic one. Middle Tennessee residents appear to be of two minds about the economy, based on results of the latest Middle Tennessee State University survey of consumer attitudes. Overall, consumer confidence is up sharply from January based on a survey of 404 randomly selected residents of Davidson, Williamson and Rutherford counties done Monday and Tuesday this week. And a few more people polled say theyre willing to make major purchases right now -- an upbeat sign that should please retailers hungry for sales and government agencies anxious to bring in tax revenue. Here are some numbers: Overall outlook: An index of 184 based on answers to 11 questions about the U.S., local and personal economic trends. Thats up from a score of 151 in January and good news. Better off or not: When asked if the U.S. business conditions would be better in six months, 33 percent said, yes. But thats down from a 36 percent yes response three months ago. Score this as mixed results. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120427/BUSINESS01/304270066/TNconsumers-happier-fret-about-what-s-ahead-6-months?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|s 9

Krelstein Out, Winchester In as Commission Changes Redistricting Lawyers (MF)

The still unresolved question of how to redistrict the Shelby County Commssion, which has dragged on for months and tied commissioners and various county support staffs in knots, has risen to an even more complicated level. Lawyer Ron Kreslstein, the special attorney hired at years end by Shelby County Attorney Kelly Rayne to represent the County Commission in pending hearings before Chancellor Arnold Goldin, has been asked to withdraw. The action came as a result of a vote by the Commission last month insisting that requirements of the county charter be defended in court. Krelstein had indicated that he intended to make the case for acceptance of a single-member redistricting plan, 2-J, on the grounds that it had earned at least seven votes on three different readings, which is all that state law requires. The county charter, however, specifies that the final vote be a super-majority, or 9 votes. Hence Krelsteins departure. The new attorney handling the Commissions case is Rick Winchester, who has indicated, in a memorandum to Mark Allen of the county attorneys staff that he will defend the charters stiffer requirements. http://www.memphisflyer.com/JacksonBaker/archives/2012/04/26/krelstein-out-winchester-in-as-countycommission-changes-redistricting

TN freshmen donate to colleagues (Tennessean/Bewley)

Tennessees first-term House members are donating thousands of dollars to other freshmen lawmakers, a move political experts say may help them advance up the rungs of party leadership. Republican Rep. Stephen Fincher of Frog Jump has donated more to his fellow freshmen than all but two other first-term lawmakers, according to data published Thursday by the Capitol Hill newspaper Politico. Finchers political action committee, called Funding Republicans Supporting Opportunity and Growth (FROG) Jump PAC, has given $22,500 to freshmen since December, campaign finance records show. Finchers campaign committee contributed an additional $6,000 to the National Republican Congressional Committee last year to help fund other Republicans races. Republican Rep. Scott DesJarlais of Jasper ranked sixth in contributions to his fellow freshmen, according to Politico. His recently launched PAC, called TN4U PAC for the 4th District DesJarlais represents, donated $11,000 to first-term Republicans in March. Rep. Diane Black, R-Gallatin, hasnt used her PAC to donate to individual candidates, but she donated $50,000 to the NRCC through her campaign committee. Federal election rules dont limit how much candidates can contribute to party committees. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120426/NEWS/304260124/TN-freshmen-donate-colleagues? odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|s

Alexander

pushes

funding

plan

to

revive

work

on

Chickamauga

lock

(TFP/Flessner)
Work on the stalled replacement lock at the Chickamauga Dam in Chattanooga could be revived next year if Congress adopts a Senate plan to change the way the Army Corps of Engineers funds its inland waterway projects. But without earmarks to designate funding and without the change in a House-passed budget plan, it still will require congressional conferees and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to agree to reactivate the stalled lock project. U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., said Thursday an alternative method of funding a major corps project on the Ohio River could free up money to revive work on a new and bigger Chickamauga lock. Under the new funding formula included in the energy and water funding bill for fiscal 2013, Alexander said the federal government would assume a bigger share of the ongoing work on the Olmsted Lock and Dam on the Ohio River. That project is absorbing virtually all of the money in the Inland Waterways Trust Fund, leaving projects like the lock replacements at the Chickamauga and Kentucky locks without any money to proceed. "This bill will free up an additional $72 million for the construction and maintenance of our nation's locks and dams, many of which have been long waiting for funding, particularly Chickamauga lock," Alexander said in a statement. "It was unacceptable to me that Chickamauga lock could close because of the failure of the Inland Waterways Trust Fund, and this is a good first step to better managing the fund." http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/apr/27/alexander-plan-to-revive-work-on-chickamauga-lock/? businesstnvalley

Scottie Mayfield apologizes after son admits slashing tire (TFP/Carroll)

10

Scottie Mayfield apologized to U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann "and to the voters" after his 33-year-old son confessed to slashing a Fleischmann staffer's tire at a Mayfield campaign event. "I am truly sorry and embarrassed," wrote Mayfield, who's challenging Fleischmann in Tennessee's 3rd Congressional District Republican primary. "This kind of activity has no place in campaigns and we are regretful that it happened." The Mayfield campaign initially denied having anything to do with the incident, and the well-known dairy executive issued a public apology at the same time the Kingston Police Department on Thursday charged his son with a misdemeanor -- two facts Fleischmann campaign spokesman Jordan Powell cited in dismissing Scottie Mayfield's atonement as "politically motivated." "Is he apologizing because he's sorry or because his son got caught?" Powell said. Police charged Michael Mayfield with vandalism under $500 after he confessed, officials said. The incident was caught on video. Mayfield strategist Tommy Hopper recently promised that the campaign would abstain from "political games" and "silly and childish attempts to diminish the other guys" after another video -- "Scottie Mayfield Struggles to Answer Basic Questions" -- anonymously was uploaded to YouTube last week. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/apr/27/mayfield-apologizes-after-son-admits-slashing-tire/?local

Health Insurers to Pay Rebates (W all Street Journal)

Health insurers are expected to give rebates of more than $1 billion to consumers and employers this year, under a provision of the federal health overhaul that forces them to offer refunds if they don't spend enough of the premium dollars they take in on health care. An early picture of the effects of the requirement, one of the aspects of the health law that drew the most concern from the insurance industry, is emerging from new analyses based on estimates that insurers filed with state regulators. The nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation, which calculated total rebates at $1.3 billion, says that around $426 million will go to people who bought their own health plans; $541 million will go to large employers; and $377 million to small businesses. In a separate analysis based on the same filings, Goldman Sachs analyst Matthew Borsch estimated the total rebates at around $1.2 billion. Insurers must tell the federal government this June exactly how much the rebates will be, and they are expected to go out by August. People with individual insurance may get rebates in the form of checks or discounts against future premiums. Rebates for group plans are expected to go to the employers, and a share is supposed to be passed through to employees. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303990604577367783583660086.html?mod=ITP_pageone_1 (SUBSCRIPTION)

As Gridlock Persists, States Get Creative in Funding Renewable Energy (Stateline)

Hawaii in recent years has been good to the solar industry, and thats not just because the states geography promises a steady supply of rays. Aided by a slew of generous tax credits to homeowners and companies, including up to 35 percent returned to homeowners who buy and install solar energy units, solar business on the islands is booming. The number of installations of solar energy projects doubled between 2009 and 2010 and has since continued to grow. Those projects account for some 15 percent of construction spending in the state, putting about 2,000 Hawaiians to work. Meanwhile, the cost of manufacturing and installing solar panels continues to fall, as solar technology slowly gains a foothold in the national energy market. And in a state that imports most of its energy, with residents paying several times the national average for oil and natural gas, the emergence of a domestic fuel source is good news. But despite those gains, neither solar nor wind power is yet on equal footing with fossil fuels. And growth in the renewable energy sector could soon fizzle. Amid Hawaiis ongoing budget issues, lawmakers arent sure they can afford to keep offering such generous incentives for solar power. In 2011 alone the state gave up about $40 million in revenue through the tax credit program. http://www.pewstates.org/projects/stateline/headlines/as-washington-gridlock-persists-states-get-creative-infunding-renewable-energy-85899383075

Board of Cash-Strapped TVA Approves Extra $2 Billion for Nuclear Plant (WPLN)
The board of the Tennessee Valley Authority spent Thursdays meeting hearing about low power demand and tight finances. Then they voted unanimously to spend an additional $2 billion completing a nuclear reactor in Spring City. TVAs management described to the board a diet program to get through what they call a rough patch. Mild weather has led to lower electricity sales, which is good for consumers but bad for TVAs bottom line. To conserve cash, the agency is scaling back some of its construction projects, but not Watts Bar Unit 2. Even though it is wildly over budget, TVA board chairman Bill Sansom sees a prudent investment. And he says hes a little puzzled why he and fellow board members thought it could be done for $2.5 billion originally. We missed the mark to start with. We recognized it and I think weve fixed it. You can comment on the money all you 11

want to and I know it is big money but its still a good project for TVA to do. Opponents to moving forward with W atts Bar asked the board to consider solar and natural gas instead. But Sansom says TVA needs more nuclear power to balance its energy mix and help weather cost fluctuations of any one source. http://wpln.org/? p=36580

Former TVA Chairman calls for end to nuclear building program (TFP/Sohn)
TVA, under fire for nuclear construction overruns, is on a road to having its first ever net loss year, its board was told Thursday. "TVA expects to end fiscal year 2012 with revenues between $500 million and $600 million below plan," Chief Financial Officer John Thomas said, blaming unusually mild weather and a slowly recovering economy for sluggish power sales. In addition, the board of the Tennessee Valley Authority and the utility's president and CEO were put on the defensive by public criticism of its $2 billion cost overrun on the W atts Bar Unit 2 reactor and its "nuclear addicted" management. S. David Freeman, a former TVA board chairman, implored the agency "to just stop" its nuclear building program because it is too costly. And at least two members of the public called for CEO Tom Kilgore to be replaced as the utility took criticism for W atts Bar, tree cutting, new recreation fees, energy policies and safety concerns. But the board voted unanimously to continue with the completion of the second W atts Bar Nuclear Plant reactor, despite the delays and cost overruns. Board Chairman Bill Sansom defended the nuclear construction, a much criticized right-of-way tree-cutting program, increased recreational fees and Tom Kilgore. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/apr/27/formerchairman-s-david-freeman-blasts-tva/?local

Former TVA Chair Pleads with Board to Walk Away from Nuclear Again (W PLN)
A former chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority says the federal utility has had a love affair with nuclear power that should end. David Freeman addressed the board at its meeting Thursday morning. The 86-year-old Freeman says TVA still feels compelled to be the countrys leader in nuclear power. But he says thats not in the interest of its 9 million rate payers. Just recognize that there is an influence on you here that is not business-like, and I know it. I felt it when I was on the board. Freeman was appointed to head the TVA board by President Jimmy Carter, and ultimately oversaw the scrapping of plans for a fleet of reactors that would have been the countrys largest. TVA has since restarted work on a few, including Watts Bar Unit 2, which is a couple billion dollars over-budget. Freeman says TVA should instead consider more natural gas plants, solar power and energy efficiency. http://wpln.org/?p=36576

Asurion to Add 500 Jobs Downtown (WPLN-Radio Nashville)

Assurion, which already has a staff of 2,400 in Tennessee, says it will add more jobs in in downtown Nashville. The cell phone insurer moved its headquarters to Nashville from California in 2003, setting up shop in Grassmere Park, near the Nashville Zoo. In announcing the additional jobs Monday, Asurion officials say the company will keep its headquarters at that location, while opening what it calls a technology products office in the SoBro area of downtown, with more than 500 new employees. The company will move into the old Ragland Building, which originally housed a wholesale grocery distribution business. In a statement, Mayor Karl Dean says Asurions growth downtown reflects a positive impact from construction of the nearby Music City Center and the extension of Korean Veterans Boulevard. Asurion also operates two technology and logistics centers in Smyrna. http://wpln.org/?p=36583

Asurion bringing 500 jobs to downtown (Nashville Post)

Mayor Karl Dean and Asurion CEO Sean McKinless held a joint press conference Thursday morning in SoBro's Ragland Building announcing that the company plans to bring jobs to downtown. Asurion will lease the 92,000square-foot building. Housed there will be what were described as 500 hi-tech professionals. According to McKinless, these positions will include positions such as management and coders, among others. The Grassmere-based company will both migrate some positions from the company's other offices in town as well as bring in new positions as well. Asked about the breakdown between migrations and new hires, McKinless told reporters that plans were still being formulated. The expansion comes following a 2010 announcement when Asurion unveiled a five-year plan to keep the company's headquarters in Nashville as well as add 500 jobs over the, at the time, next five years. According to McKinless, the company is trending ahead of that projection, having already added 200 jobs since the announcement. http://nashvillepost.com/news/2012/4/25/update_asurion_bringing_500_jobs_to_downtown 12

Erlanger begins search for CEO (Chattanooga Times Free-Press/Martin)

Erlanger trustees approved resolutions to establish a search committee for a new CEO and hire a consulting team to address operational improvements during their monthly meeting Thursday evening. Neither resolution included an estimated cost. The public hospital has had a difficult financial year, losing $17 million in the last nine months. It expects to lose more money in April. Former CEO Jim Brexler resigned in December, and Charlesetta Woodard-Thompson has served as interim CEO. Dr. Phyllis Miller, who will lead the search committee, said board members had hoped the hospital would be on better financial footing before they began their search for a new CEO but realize the need to move ahead. Weve been working behind the scenes for three to four months now and hope to have our first meeting next week, Miller said. The search committee will have eight or nine members recommended by Miller and appointed by Board Chairman Ron Loving who will come from the board, medical staff and academic staff associated with the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Chattanooga. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/apr/27/erlanger-begins-search-ceo/?local

County moves closer to selecting architect for school (Times Free-Press/Haman)

With one new elementary school already under way, Hamilton County Superintendent Rick Smith took a major step Thursday toward beginning another one to replace East Brainerd Elementary School. A majority of county commissioners signaled that they'll vote officially next week to form a committee to pick an architect to design the school. Commissioners Chester Bankston, Greg Beck, Tim Boyd, Jim Fields and Larry Henry said they support selecting an architect. Gary Waters, who oversees facilities for the school system, said school administrators want to bring in an architect to recommend which buildings to replace or keep at the 20-acre site of the former David Brainerd School on Igou Gap Road. More than 700 students are enrolled on both campuses of East Brainerd Elementary, and Smith said he expects more growth. "We are seeing significant growth in the eastern part of the county," Smith said. "We feel confident a second school is necessary." The site, which the county purchased last March for about $3.4 million, houses East Brainerd Elementary's fourth and fifth grades. Most of the site's buildings are less than 10 years old, and some commissioners think there are more pressing county needs than replacing relatively new buildings. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/apr/27/county-moves-closer-to-selecting-architect-for/?local

Knoxville Chamber backs education spending plan (News-Sentinel/Flory)

Proposal would require tax increase Knoxville's business establishment has lined up squarely behind an effort to boost education spending. The board of the Knoxville Chamber voted Thursday to support an education budget proposal that would likely require a tax increase. The Knox County school system is seeking a budget increase of $48 million which includes a $35 million boost above the natural revenue growth that would enhance instructional technology, add instructional time, expand performance pay for teachers and fund capital improvements, among other things. The plan is controversial because it would likely require a tax increase, and Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett has said he won't approve the request, although the mayor supports the $13 million in natural revenue growth. School Superintendent Jim McIntyre told the Chamber board on Thursday that the initiative was a bold proposal, but not a "break-the-bank" proposal. He said the plan envisions providing a digital device to all of the school system's students, and is an important investment in the future of the county's children.http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/apr/27/knoxville-chamber-backs-education-spending-plan/

Panel hears plan to close 21 Memphis schools (Commercial Appeal/Kelley)

The Transition Planning Commission stepped carefully into the thorny thicket of school closings at its regular weekly meeting Thursday. Reviewing a proposed recommendation from its Logistics Committee -- closing an unidentified 10 elementary, seven middle and four high schools in northwest and southwest Memphis -members of the commission planning the transition to a consolidated county school system recognized that the process would be painful but it would help the district stay within its anticipated budget of $1.23 billion. No formal vote was taken on the proposed recommendation, which, if ultimately approved by the TPC, would go to the unified school board in late June as part of the commission's first draft of its overall plan. TPC chairwoman Barbara Prescott praised the Logistics Committee, headed by Richard Holden, for taking on the weighty and politically explosive task of finding ways to cut the new school district's costs so that investments could be made 13

in a new "world-class educational system." School closing decisions, under the proposed policy, would be based on a school's population compared to its capacity, its academic performance, the condition of the building and its proximity to schools that would receive the displaced students. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/26/panel-hears-plan-close-21-memphis-schools/ (SUB)

Ambitious Educators (Memphis Flyer)

KIPP Memphis, which currently educates 500 students in grades five through nine at two schools, has embarked on an ambitious expansion plan that will include opening 10 collegiate schools educating roughly 4,500 students in North and South Memphis by 2016. Were currently operating two schools, and we definitely felt like we needed to broaden our impact based on the need here in Memphis, said KIPP Memphis executive director Jamal McCall. KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) currently operates a middle and high school, and in late summer will open a second middle school as well as its first elementary school, with new schools slated to open at the start of each school year through 2016. When the expansion is complete, KIPP will have two elementary, two middle and one high school in North Memphis, each with a counterpart in South Memphis. KIPP is also partnering with Porter-Leath a Memphis nonprofit organization serving at-risk children and families to open a preschool inside KIPPs collegiate middle school at 230 Henry Ave. Porter-Leath employees, who will prepare 100 4-year-olds for kindergarten, will staff the preschool, slated to open in August. http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2012/apr/27/ambitious-educators/

Charter school officials try again (Jackson Sun)

Connections Preparatory Academy officials arent wasting any time reapplying to open a public charter school in Jackson-Madison County and have already resubmitted a letter of intent to apply one week after the state upheld the local boards decision to reject their application. The state must receive letters of intent by Aug. 2. According to the letter, Connections officials are proposing to open the school in the 2013-14 school year. Board chairwoman Helen Owens said supporters of the school planned to continue the process of seeking approval to open the school. Last year, Jackson-Madison County Schools administrators, including Superintendent Buddy White, reviewed Connections application and recommended that the local school board deny the application because they argued the charter school would create financial hardship for the district. White also questioned the academics, finances and structure of the proposed school. White and his team gave the application a score of 20.6 out of a possible 100 points. http://www.jacksonsun.com/article/20120427/NEWS01/304270015/Charter-school-officials-try-again

Police arrest 10 in meth probe (Jackson Sun)

Drug agents have arrested 10 people and are searching for one person in a pseudoephedrine diversion operation that was performed Wednesday in cooperation with local pharmacies. The operation, conducted by the Jackson-Madison County Metro Narcotics Unit, targeted people purchasing pseudoephedrine for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine, according to a news release. Pseudoephedrine is the primary ingredient in decongestant cold medicines that have to be purchased through a pharmacy and not over-the-counter. It is also the most common essential precursor chemical used in the manufacture of meth, a schedule II controlled substance, the release said. The release said cases were developed against eight of those arrested on charges of promotion of meth manufacture, which is a class D felony, and the other three were arrested on charges of drug or paraphernalia possession. In addition to the pseudoephedrine products, amounts of meth, morphine and drug paraphernalia were recovered in the investigation. Investigators are seeking Tracey Lee Chambliss regarding this investigation. She is a 29-year-old white female with blonde hair and blue eyes. Chambliss is approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs approximately 125 pounds. http://www.jacksonsun.com/article/20120427/NEWS01/304270013/Police-arrest-10-meth-probe

Florida: State Worker Drug Tests Struck Down in Florida (USA Today)
A federal court in Miami ruled Thursday that Gov. Rick Scotts order to randomly test a majority of state employees for drugs is unconstitutional, saying there is not a compelling enough reason to do so. In her ruling, Federal District Judge Ursula Ungaro said the governors policy constituted an unreasonable search and seizure and must be stopped. Last March, Mr. Scott, a former health care executive, ordered random drug testing for about 80,000 state employees who work for the 15 agencies that report to him. He suspended the testing in June because of the lawsuit. Judge Ungaro said Mr. Scott had overreached in his executive order because there was no evidence of a large-scale problem and no urgent reason to mandate drug tests. The governors drug testing requirement does not identify a concrete danger that must be addressed by suspicionless drug-testing of state 14

employees, Judge Ungaro wrote. And the governor shows no evidence of a drug-use problem at the covered agencies. Mr. Scott objected to the ruling on Thursday. Testing workers for drugs, he said, is reasonable and practical. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/27/us/court-rules-florida-governors-drug-testing-order-unconstitutional.html? ref=todayspaper (SUBSCRIPTION)

OPINION Bill Hagerty: Entrepreneurs will flourish under new state programs (Tennessean)
In Tennessee, we have a long, proud heritage of entrepreneurism. Entrepreneurs are the true job creators; the lifeblood of Tennessees economy and critical to the nations long-range success. Companies like Federal Express, Hospital Corporation of America, Petsafe, Dollar General and Autozone demonstrate the ability of Tennesseans to create enormous entrepreneurial value. These companies have changed the course of American business. Under Gov. Bill Haslam, our department added an entrepreneurism agenda to our economic development mission. More than 86 percent of all jobs in Tennessee are created by existing Tennessee businesses. We must keep that pipeline of native companies full with start-ups that may be the next FedEx or HCA. The headroom created by our departments record-breaking job-creation numbers in 2011 freed up the resources to address that challenge. Key pieces of our agenda to spur greater entrepreneurism in Tennessee are beginning to make a difference. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120427/OPINION03/304270035/Entrepreneurs-will-flourish-under-newstate-programs?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Opinion|p

Editorial: Tougher laws for domestic abusers long overdue (Jackson Sun)
According to national crime reports, Tennessee ranks second in the nation in domestic violence and fifth in the nation in the number of women murdered by men as the result of domestic violence. One would think it would be relatively easy to pass tougher domestic violence criminal penalties in Tennessee. But that is not the case. Fortunately, Gov. Bill Haslams administration helped negotiate a compromise on proposed domestic violence legislation that led to its passage this week. Given the states grim reputation for domestic violence, and all types of criminal violence, Haslam included tougher criminal penalties for repeat domestic violence offenders in his 2012 legislative anti-crime package. It called for significant increases in fines and jail time for repeat domestic abusers. W ho could argue against that? It turns out that many lawmakers and local officials opposed the proposal because of the increased cost to local jails for housing the abusers. What seemed to matter most in this situation was the cost of running local jails, not the safety of Tennessees women. http://www.jacksonsun.com/article/20120427/OPINION/304270001/Our-View-Tougher-laws-domestic-abuserslong-overdue 15

Editorial: Help for vets facing charges (Commercial Appeal)

Creating a Veterans Court: There may be other ways to help veterans charged with crimes beyond creating a special court for them. Military veterans who undergo the stress of repeated combat can leave service with mental health issues. It's estimated that some 20 percent of combat veterans, researchers said, suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder. Others suffer varying degrees of brain damage resulting from combat injuries. Those conditions can manifest themselves in domestic violence, assaults, alcohol and drug abuse, or worse. It's in that context that a coalition of veterans and their advocates is seeking $100,000 from Shelby County to create a special Veterans Court program to help former warriors who are facing criminal charges. The money would be used to fund the salaries of a full-time staffer and a part-time staffer for one year. After that, organizers hope to get grants or state appropriations. General Sessions Criminal Court Judge Bill Anderson, who supports the concept, would handle all the veterans' cases in addition to other duties. Supporters said the court would not be a get-out-of-jail-free card, but would serve as a way to more efficiently funnel needed services to the vets. Those who fight for our country deserve all the thanks, consideration and care we and the government can give. But with the smorgasbord of veteran and support services available to veterans, it seems reasonable to question whether a special veterans court also is needed. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/27/editorials-help-for-vets-facing-charges/ (SUBSCRIPTION)

Pam Strickland: Lawmakers avoid the important matters (News-Sentinel)

If all goes well, and well is certainly in the eye of the beholder, the Tennessee Legislature will be wrapping up its 2012 session and heading home this week. Yet for most of time its members have been in Nashville jabbering this year, it seems they've been dealing more with fantasy than they have reality. That sense has truly been driven home by some stark headlines about Tennessee realities in the last few weeks. It started with Forbes earlier this month with "The Most Unfair Cities to be a Working Woman: Gender Pay Gap by the Numbers." Written by staff reporter Meghan Casserly, the ForbesW oman story had analyzed data from the American Community Survey by the U.S. Census Bureau, using the earnings for full-time, year-round female workers. It ranked Knoxville as the city with the third-widest gender wage gap in the country. Other cities in the Top 10 are: No. 1, Stamford, Conn.; No. 4, Baton Rouge, La.; and No. 7, Tulsa, Okla. One of the factors considered was education. Then earlier this week, News Sentinel health reporter Kristi L. Nelson came back from last week's Association of Health Care Journalists national conference in Atlanta with a story headlined: "Report shows link between money, education and life expectancy: Some Tennessee counties like Third World." http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/apr/27/pam-strickland-lawmakers-avoid-the-important/

Editorial: Transparent government has no price (Daily News Journal)

The intent of government should be to provide as much public notice as possible about government meetings not to save money. By turning its legal ads and public notices into a financial issue six years ago, Rutherford County government put itself in a precarious situation. County Mayor Ernest Burgess acknowledged this week that the county decided to start advertising its public notices and legal ads in the Murfreesboro Post because it was substantially cheaper and other governmental entities were already doing it. The state attorney general had also issued a decision that the Post qualified as a newspaper of general circulation. Despite the AG ruling, the county found itself mired in a costly legal battle with residents over public notice in the Rutherford County Regional Planning Commissions approval of a site plan for the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro. In a two-day trial this week, the plaintiffs contended the county failed to provide adequate public notice for the planning meeting. The county argued that it met all legal requirements for advertising in advance of the meeting. Part of the problem is that theres no strict definition of adequate public notice set up in Tennessees Sunshine Law. Most of the guidelines come from court rulings. http://www.dnj.com/article/20120427/OPINION/304270014/Editorial-Transparent-government-has-no-price

Editorial: Chamber right to support greater school spending (News-Sentinel)

The Knoxville Chamber's board of directors unanimously voted to endorse the Knox County Schools' budget proposal that would boost education spending by $35 million a year. The Chamber's endorsement should add some momentum to the proposal, which is aimed at upgrading facilities, improving teacher pay, investing in technology and improving student performance. "The community with the best schools wins" Chamber Chairman Mitch Steenrod said in a statement after Thursday's vote. Chamber officials, Superintendent Jim McIntyre and school board members are lobbying Knox County commissioners to sign off on the $432.7 million plan. Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett will unveil his spending plan Tuesday. He has been cool to McIntyre's proposal, 16

which, if adopted in its entirety, likely would require a property tax increase. Burchett has said he will not recommend raising taxes. The schools' budget request represents a long-overdue investment in education in Knox County. Knox County spends $7,453 per student, far less than higher-performing systems in Oak Ridge, Maryville, Kingsport and Greeneville. The system ranks an abysmal 37th in teacher pay among school systems statewide. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/apr/27/editorial-chamber-right-to-support-greater/

Editorial: Ratepayers are on hook for TVA errors (Tennessean)

Tennessee Valley Authority ratepayers, say hello to your new nuclear reactor. Watts Bar Unit 2 in Spring City, Tenn., is, at least technically, yours, since you will be paying for this 1,100-megawatt unit which, as of Thursday, had a price tag of $4.5 billion. That is, if there are no further cost overruns and delays, and if you are willing to wait another 3 years for the reactor to be finished. You, the ratepayer, have every reason to be skeptical. W ork began on Unit 2 in the 1970s, before many of TVAs 9 million customers across seven states were even born. Reactor construction was put on hold in 1988, in part because of a drop in power demand and in part because of nationwide safety concerns over safety of nuclear power. Power demand has dropped again in the past few years, and safety concerns have re-emerged following last years partial meltdown at Japans Fukushima plant. But this time, TVA is plunging ahead. What is driving TVA down this rocky path is the sound of carbon footsteps. After decades of relying on its polluting coal-fired plants, the utility realizes it has to move to cleaner energy sources. True. But the sense of urgency seems to be leading TVA leadership into poor decision-making. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120427/OPINION01/304270034/Ratepayers-hook-TVA-errors? odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Opinion|p

Greg Johnson: Time to end insanity of entitlements (Knoxville News-Sentinel)

We've made promises we can't keep. From the city of Knoxville's pension plan to Knox County's Uniformed Officers Pension Plan to Social Security, we are awash in an ocean of obligations that will eventually overwhelm us. Taxpayers will drown as the red tide rises. The trustees of Social Security and Medicare this week released their annual report. The Social Security trust fund will run out of money by 2033. Medicare will drain its reserves by 2024. Federal disability insurance, a part of Social Security, will be bust by the next presidential election in 2016. "(These) reports confirm what we all know but Washington has been ignoring for years: Congress must act to reform and restore solvency to Social Security and Medicare and put our country on a path to fiscal sanity," said U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn. "Bold entitlement reform combined with long-term deficit reduction and progrowth tax reform that lowers rates across the board will cause the economy take off. I will continue working with my colleagues in both parties toward that end." But we've already seen what happens when "bold entitlement reform" is proposed. Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wisc., recommends giving retirees control of their Medicare by issuing vouchers that would allow recipients to purchase their own medical insurance. This freer-market approach inspired Democrats to release an ad showing a Ryan look-alike pushing an old woman in a wheelchair over a cliff. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/apr/27/greg-johnson-time-to-end-insanity-of/ ###

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