SUMMARY: Governor Bill Lee announced the “BlueOval City” electric vehicle plant in Tennessee, developed by Ford with nearly $1 billion in state incentives. Local residents sought a legally-binding community benefits agreement (CBA) with Ford, but the Tennessee Senate has passed legislation preventing such agreements for companies receiving state incentives. This move has faced opposition, notably from Sen. Charlane Oliver, who argued it silences community voices. A coalition in West Tennessee demands a CBA for BlueOval City, advocating for local hiring and environmental monitoring. Instead, Ford proposed a “Good Neighbor Plan” with $9 million in community investments, which some view as insufficient.

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SUMMARY: A bill filed by Rep. Sam McKenzie (D-Knoxville) seeks to repeal the 2022 Tennessee Age Appropriate Materials Act, aiming to restore books to school libraries. The proposed “Freedom to Read Act” (HB 1051) would ensure that library materials are age-appropriate without being excluded due to ideological, religious, or political views. The bill requires schools to have a uniform policy for reviewing library materials, while removing state authority over book reviews. Critics, including the ACLU, argue the 2022 law fosters censorship. If passed, the bill would take effect July 1. The House K-12 Subcommittee will discuss it on March 26.

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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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