Tennessee State Legislature Archives

Controversies and Failures: Tennessee’s Chaotic 2023 Legislative Session

The 2023 legislative session in Tennessee was a tumultuous one. The session started with the revelation of odd social media comments made by Lt. Gov. Randy McNally on thirst-trap posts by a young, gay aspiring superstar. The incident caught national attention and was even spoofed on Saturday Night Live's "Weekend Update." However, this was...

State Reconsiders Cannabis-Related Legislation

Every year in the Tennessee General Assembly, cannabis-related legislation is offered and defeated. While this year may be no different, some members of the Republican supermajority are beginning to reconsider their staunch opposition to marijuana. Tennessee would become the first state to legalize medical marijuana usage under legislation proposed by Sen. Janice Bowling (R-Tullahoma). The...

Highlights From The Homeless Memorial, Low Life Expectancy And The Need For Affordable Housing

176 names were read aloud at this year's annual homeless memorial, representing persons who passed away in Nashville after having experienced homelessness. The homeless memorial, which this year was held on December 17, always takes place on or around the winter solstice, the year's longest night. This represents the protracted evenings that people spend in...

LGBT Chamber Chief Executive Officer Joe Woolley Fired

Joey Woolley is no longer the CEO of the Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce as the Board of Directors of his organization voted to fire him. In a recent email, Woolley told chamber members that he was not in line with the Chamber Board, and particularly with executive committee members over the direction and...