Three NFIB-backed bills have advanced in the Tennessee General Assembly in the last month, which means good news for the state’s small business owners, students, and workers. Here’s a look at them.
House Bill 2437/Senate Bill 1573—Regulatory Procedure Improvement
This bill, sponsored by Rep. Ron M. Gant and Sen. Mike Bell, requires that when state agencies are required to hold a public hearing on a proposed rule, they make copies of the rule in redline form available to all attendees of the hearing as well as post it online. This change will make it easier for small businesses to understand the rule, and it will increase transparency and efficiency and decrease time and cost. The proposal has been transmitted to Gov. Bill Haslam for action.
House Bill 1599/Senate Bill 1649—Work-Based Learning Improvement
This legislation, sponsored by Rep. John Forgety and Sen. Mark Norris, is moving through committees. It would establish liability framework for employers who accept or employ students who are participating in work-based learning as part of their secondary education. It would also create a franchise and excise tax credit for taxpayers who are employing these work-based learning students. In doing so, access to these opportunities will be improved, while also putting in place important protections for businesses and students.
House Bill 2248/Senate Bill 2465—Fresh Start Legislation
This proposal, sponsored by Rep. Jeremy Faison and Sen. Kerry Roberts, would enact the Fresh Start Act. This requires that any denial to issue or refusal to renew occupational and professional licenses based on a criminal conviction is only permitted when the criminal offense relates to the occupation or profession in question. It would improve career opportunities and support businesses and job creation statewide. HB 2248/SB2465 is moving through committees.
NFIB/TN thanks these lawmakers for supporting this important legislation!
