SUMMARY: State Senator Bo Watson deferred a Senate committee hearing on a bill that could deny undocumented students public education, citing the need for additional time to refine the language. In response, two Nashville pastors met with Watson to express their opposition to the bill, emphasizing that children should not be punished for circumstances beyond their control. They argued for fair treatment under the law and criticized using children as political pawns. In their five-minute discussion, Watson acknowledged the need for immigration reform while also discussing the financial implications of illegal immigration in Tennessee. The bill is now set for review on April 1st.

Pastors confront sponsor of undocumented student bill

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SUMMARY: Researchers at Mammoth Cave National Park recently identified a new ancient shark species, *Clavusodens mcginnisi* (McGinnis’ nail tooth), which lived about 340 million years ago. This small shark, measuring just three to four inches, thrived in Kentucky’s warm, shallow seas during the Mississippian Period. It likely fed on small crustaceans, worms, and brachiopods. The discovery, made in the Ste. Genevieve Formation, adds to the park’s Paleontological Resource Inventory. The shark is named after David McGinnis, a former park guide and fossil preservation advocate. Further analysis of this and other fossil finds will be released in the coming months.

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SUMMARY: Tennessee lawmakers are debating Senate Bill 362, which sets guidelines for veteran benefits, creating division among veterans. While some argue it protects against financial predators, others claim it enables exploitative practices. Veteran Shane Prader warns that the bill allows private firms to charge veterans up to 500% for assistance that should be free. Supporters, including state senator Richard Briggs, believe it introduces necessary safeguards by regulating who can help veterans and preventing upfront fees. Critics emphasize that the potential costs could hurt veterans financially. Both factions desire national legislation to protect veterans from exploitation, which Congress has yet to pass.

Supporters of the bill say it can safeguard servicemembers accessing benefits. Critics warn it could open veterans up to “financial predators.”

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