Tennessee’s House and Senate speakers are threatening to cut Memphis’ share of sales tax revenue if the city puts referendums on the November ballot restricting weapons. This move would withhold over $75 million in revenue and force Memphis to sue the state for violating their rights. Republican leaders like House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Lt. Gov. Randy McNally have announced their intent to withhold state shared sales tax from any local government attempting to bypass state laws. The dispute stems from referendums set for Memphis’ November ballot that aim to amend the city charter to include stricter gun regulations, creating a conflict with state laws.
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett has stated that his office won’t allow the referendums, setting the stage for a potential lawsuit. Memphis Council members like JB Smiley and Jeff Warren argue that the city has the right to propose these amendments as enabling measures pending state approval. However, Republican lawmakers believe these motions are a tactic to drive voter turnout and could impact the upcoming elections.
Local officials and lawmakers in Memphis have criticized the speakers’ threats, calling them unconstitutional and anti-democratic. They argue that the measures are essential to combatting the gun violence epidemic in the city, which has worsened due to recent state legislation. Democrats in the state have accused Republican lawmakers of dismantling gun laws and putting communities at risk. The ongoing feud between Memphis and the state legislature highlights the deep divide on gun laws and local government autonomy.
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