Extraordinary Session: DUI Law Change
Governor Bill Haslam called the General Assembly into an “extraordinary session” to bring the state’s law for underage DUI in compliance with a federal regulation to avoid losing $60 million in federal road funding (related: Here’s what’s up with the #TNLeg “Extraordinary Session”). The DUI change passed on Wednesday with about an hour’s debate.
TN House voted to expel Rep. Jeremy Durham
The extraordinary session started with a vote in the House to expel Jeremy Durham [R-Franklin], accused of sexual harassment in a report by the TN Attorney General. The Tennessean broke the story of inappropriate conduct in January, prompting Durham to resign his position as majority whip. Read ongoing coverage by reporters Dave Boucher and Joel Ebert. The expulsion vote passed on Tuesday (70-AYE, 2-NO, 4-NOT VOTING).
ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)
- Lawmakers are considering a state law for short-term rentals (like AirBNB, Homeaway). One family is suing over Nashville permit requirements.
- Governor Haslam expressed confidence in refugee vetting process after meeting with U.S. State Department officials and Catholic Charities.
- U.S. Education Secretary John King praised Tennessee Promise college tuition program as a model for the nation.
- Senator Lamar Alexander introduced a bill in Congress to waive Obamacare penalties. (Weigh in on S. 3326).
- Bill from Rep. Marsha Blackburn to prohibit ticket-buying “bots” passed the House. (Weigh in on H.R. 5014).
- 53 state lawmakers filed to intervene in divorce case of two women in Knoxville.
