SUMMARY: A class-action lawsuit accuses Tennessee’s Department of Human Services (DHS) of mishandling Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, violating federal laws. Plaintiffs, facing drastic challenges such as homelessness and malnutrition, claim they were denied benefits despite qualifying, resulting in financial instability. The lawsuit highlights chronic delays in processing applications and appeals, miscalculations of income, and failures in scheduling required interviews. DHS reportedly has thousands of overdue applications and appeals, often taking months to resolve. Plaintiffs seek court-ordered reforms to improve the system, including better communication and timeliness in benefit processing.

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SUMMARY: Children will bring stories to life at the Knoxville Children’s Theater, showcasing their latest production, “James and the Giant Peach.” Anchor Katie Imman highlights the excitement of young actors as they practice for the show, which has been underway since November. Director Dennis praises the creativity and joy these kids bring, emphasizing the theater’s mission to inspire leadership and self-confidence. The theater offers a full season with ten shows, including “Mean Girls Jr.” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Although opening night is sold out, tickets are available for performances running until February 2. Visit the theater’s website for details.

Kids have a chance to bring stories to life on stage at the Knoxville Children’s Theatre and their newest show is proof of that.

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SUMMARY: House Democratic Caucus Chairman John Ray Clemmons criticized an upcoming special session in Tennessee focusing on school choice and disaster relief, calling it an “affront to Tennessee families.” Governor Bill Lee’s three-day session includes a $450 million disaster relief package and educational reforms. Clemmons accused Lee of using the disaster relief as leverage for advancing a school voucher program, stating he could have acted sooner. Democrats likened the session to “hostage taking,” arguing that it unfairly forces a choice between aiding disaster victims and undermining public education. Despite opposition, a poll shows 67% of Tennesseans support school choice.

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