Both the House and Senate have been working on versions of a voucher bill this week, with the House including $260 million for public schools. However, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally predicts the bills will end up in a conference committee with most of the public education-friendly provisions being stripped out. Speaker Pro Tem Pat Marsh ensured the voucher bill passed its first hurdle in the House, where some Republicans abstained, citing lack of time to review the bill. Despite House leadership claiming otherwise, Rep. Bryan Richey noted significant changes to the bill. Republican Rep. Todd Warner criticized the negative impact of vouchers on public schools. House Speaker Cameron Sexton, previously against vouchers, is championing the current plan, sparking rumors of a deal with the governor. The Senate version of the voucher bill passed last year, and both versions are likely headed for a conference committee, where deals are expected to be made. The focus in this legislative session seems to be split between private school vouchers, mundane issues, and regaining street cred following last year’s scandal involving the expulsion of two lawmakers. The House passed a bill to prevent expelled lawmakers from returning, despite legal concerns. Another bill restricts lawsuits against House rules to federal court, showing resentment over past defeats. The Senate appears to be more cautious, with concerns about bills targeting specific flags and legal questions surrounding other proposals. Regardless, Senate leaders suggest constitutional amendments might be needed to address certain issues.
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Private-school voucher bill likely to end up in conference committee, says Stockard • Tennessee Lookout
