As we, the General Assembly, await the State of the State Address from Governor Haslam, we are all very busy filing legislation to help pave the way for job growth in Tennessee’s private sector.
This focus on economic development is expected to dovetail with the priorities of the Governor’s Administration.
Throughout 2011, many of us met with business leaders and concerned citizens about ways to remove government hurdles to economic growth in the State.
House majority leader Representative Gerald McCormick even appointed a task force to hold hearings on the issue.
I truly believe that this General Assembly will be one of the most business-friendly there has ever been for the business community.
We have a pro-business governor leading us who has proposed a number of innovative ideas to encourage growth in the private sector.
Together, we are putting the number one priority for Tennesseans—job growth—at the top of our list.
In addition, I believe we need to do more to add greater accountability and performance measures to government so that Tennesseans are getting the most value for their taxes.
We must do more to prevent government’s limiting influence on businesses, through factors like regulations and paperwork, so our job creators can grow their businesses.
Government must be transformed from a hurdle to a resource, in my view.

State Comptroller Justin Wilson says Tennessee’s finances are sound

Tennessee is in “sound fiscal condition,” according to State Comptroller Justin Wilson, who appeared before the House Finance Committee this week.
The comptroller delivered his “State of Fiscal Affairs” report to legislative leaders in the House of Representatives.
Wilson said the General Assembly must continue to reduce expenses, and the administration should increase the efficiency of state government operations in anticipation of the tough financial challenges Tennessee is likely to face in the future.
As always, it is such an honor and privilege to serve each and every one of you!
             Blessings,
                     Terri Lynn