(NASHVILLE, TN), January 18, 2012 -- State Senator Mike Faulk (R-Church Hill) announced today that he will be holding “Town Hall Meetings” in order to meet with local citizens and hear their concerns regarding issues before the State Legislature.  The events will feature Tennessee’s Secretary of State Tre Hargett, who will speak to citizens about the new voter identification law.

The schedule for Saturday, February 11, 2012 is:
Grainger County -- 7:00 am to 8:00 am EST at the Grainger County Justice Center, located on Justice Center Drive in Rutledge
Hancock County -- Noon to 1:00 pm EST at the Hancock County Courthouse – Circuit Courtroom, 1237 Main Street, in Sneedville
Jefferson County -- 3:00 pm EST to 4:00 pm at the Jefferson County Courthouse in Dandridge
 
In addition, Faulk and Hargett will appear at the Hawkins County Chamber of Commerce Annual Legislative Breakfast from 9:00 am to 11:00 am EST at the Hawkins County Education Center, 1722 E. Main Street, in Rogersville.

"The General Assembly is facing decisions that affect all of us on many important issues like our state budget, jobs, education, and our court system," said Senator Faulk.  "I want to be open and available to hear from area citizens about these and other important issues before us, as well as offer any assistance to area citizens with state government agencies.  I am looking forward to this event and hope that we have a large turnout.”

The Secretary of State is one of three Constitutional Officers elected by the General Assembly, in joint session.  His duties include oversight of nearly 400 employees regarding a wide range of services.  He also serves on 15 boards and commissions, and as the presiding member of the Tennessee Local Development Authority and the Public Records Commission. 

The voter identification law was passed in 2011 which requires voters to present valid photo identification when at the polls to make certain that those voting are both legal residents and are the person registered to vote.  The bill is designed to reduce voter fraud and provides exemptions for those voting absentee, overseas, in nursing homes and for the infirmed and indigent, who may not be able to obtain proper identification. 

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(NASHVILLE, TN) -- The 2nd Session of the 107th General Assembly convened Tuesday, January 10, to face a full array of issues.  During the first week, the issue of redistricting took center stage.

Since 1790, the federal government has conducted a census every 10 years.  Upon completion, the state legislatures are required to redistrict the state and federal legislatures to reflect changes in population.  In a famous Tennessee Case, Baker v. Carr, the Supreme Court of the United States added that all districts had to comply with the “one man – one vote” principle. 

In Tennessee there are 99 House seats and 33 Senate seats.  According to the census, Tennessee now has over six million people   The optimum population for a House district is 62,000 and the 192,000 for a Senate district.

The legislature held over for a rare Friday session last week to adopt the redistricting bills.  These bills will comply with the Constitution and divide fewer counties than previous legislation.   Many thanks to Speaker Ron Ramsey and Majority Leader Mark Norris for their leadership to get these bills through with minimal partisan bickering.  You can go to capitol.tn.gov to see the maps.

I am pleased that the 12th Senatorial District remained in tact, picking up one new county, Pickett, home of  former Secretary of State Cordell Hull.  There are now seven counties in my district, Campbell, Fentress, Morgan, Pickett, Rhea, Roane and Scott. Truly seven of the finest counties in Tennessee!  

Tennessee’s budget and job creation will remain the proedominent driver for legislative action.  Although the revenue has continued to improve, it is estimated that it will take two more years for the State to grow to 2008 levels.  Moreover, several core services were funded with one-time revenue and new revenues must be found for those services.  Unless revenues are found core services scheduled to go away on July 1, 2012, include teachers’ extended contracts, coordinated school health programs, York Institute, mental health programs, and DIDS Family Support.  I am working hard to find the necessary funds to keep these worthwhile programs adequately funded. 

We must also be fiscally responsible with our resources.  Tennessee is in better shape than many because we have been careful not to issue debt and cut wasteful spending.  In the last three years the legislature has cut discretionary spending 21% and actually lowered taxes. 

The economy is slowly recovering, but the Recession is not over in the 12th District.  Six of the seven counties have double digit unemployment.  We must do all we can to create an environment to create jobs in rural counties which traditionally have higher unemployment.   Last year, the Governor signed into law The Adventure Tourism and Rural Development Act, which mandates an economic development program for rural counties.  I wrote this bill and am excited about its potential to help rural counties.  We have a fine new Governor, Bill Haslam, who shares these concerns, too.  The legislature will look to his lead on the issue of economic development in the weeks ahead. 

Expect to hear considerable discussion of education laws in this Session.  The legislature will likely debate the state’s new teacher evaluation system.  As the new law has been put in place, there have been concerns expressed by teachers and principals alike that some of the requirements are overly burdensome and consume valuable teaching time.  I have talked to many teachers and principals myself and shared their concerns with the Commissioner of Education who has already moved to provide more flexibility.  I plan to co-sponsor a Senate Joint Resolution asking for a study of the new law.  The Governor recently announced an independent review of the program.   I am hopeful that the results of these actions will mitigate any unintended consequences from these new laws. 

There are many more issues to write about in the coming weeks.  As always, feel free to contact me anytime and visit us in Nashville.  It’s your office. 
 
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(NASHVILLE, TN), January 13, 2012  --  “Every new position created makes a difference coming into our great state,” said Senator Ketron.  “Whether it is 1 or 100, it alls adds up in moving us forward economically.  I appreciate all the work done to help bring these jobs to our area.”

“This is extremely good news as we work to grow jobs in the Middle Tennessee area,” added Senator Tracy.  “I congratulate Topre America, our economic development team, Governor Haslam and our local officials who have partnered to make this happen.”

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TOPRE AMERICA CORPORATION TO OPEN LOCATION IN SMYRNA NISSAN FACILITY
Automotive Supplier to Create 25 New Positions

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty, along with Rutherford County officials, today announced that Topre America Corporation will open a manufacturing operation in Nissan North America’s Smyrna facility. The new location represents a multi-million dollar investment and the creation of 25 jobs. 

“Topre America Corporation’s decision to locate an operation and create new jobs in Smyrna highlights why the automotive sector is identified as a key cluster in our Jobs4TN plan,” Haslam said. “Focusing on the advantages Tennessee has and leveraging its existing assets will help us on our way to making Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs.”

 “We recognize that Tennessee has a competitive advantage in the automotive industry, and today’s announcement is a prime example of that,” Hagerty said. “Congratulations to Topre America Corporation, and welcome to our state.”

Founded in 1935 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Topre started out as a manufacturer of pressed components for automobile equipment. Since the company was inaugurated, it has been committed to world-class manufacturing and has gradually expanded the range of industries it serves to include refrigerating machinery, air-conditioning systems, electronic products and office automation equipment, in addition to automobile equipment.

In 2004, Topre launched its first overseas production and sales subsidiary, Topre America Corporation, in Cullman, Ala.  The Smyrna location will be the company’s second U.S. location.

“Tennessee is rapidly becoming a major hub for the automotive industry, making this state the obvious choice for our expansion,” Brad Pepper, site manager, Topre America Corporation, said. “We look forward to growing in Tennessee and becoming a part of the Smyrna community.”

“We are excited Topre America Corporation has decided to locate operations to Smyrna,” Tony Dover, Smyrna mayor, said. “This will provide our citizens the opportunity to have good quality jobs. Our community continues to appreciate the investment of Nissan North America and all of the suppliers that are located in our community.”

“The announcement of Topre America Corporation is another testimony that Rutherford County, Tenn. is a great place to do business,” Ernest Burgess, Rutherford County mayor, said. “We welcome Topre America Corporation as the newest addition to our community and thank them for their investment.”

Topre America Corporation will fill half of the open positions by the end of January and the remaining positions before August.  Interested applicants should contact Metro Industrial at 615-220-2414, located at 557 South Lowry Street in Smyrna.

About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to develop strategies which help make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs. The department seeks to attract new corporate investment in Tennessee and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. To find out more, go to www.tn.gov/ecd.

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(NASHVILLE, TN), January 13, 2012  --  “I am very excited about adding new jobs in Bedford County,” said Senator Jim Tracy (R-Shelbyville).  “I congratulate Century Mold, our local officials, our Economic and Community Development team, and Governor Haslam for their work in securing these jobs.  I look forward to continuing to work toward bringing new opportunities to our communities and our citizens.”

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The text of the release from Governor Haslam is below:

CENTURY MOLD TO EXPAND SHELBYVILLE LOCATION
Injection Molding Manufacturer to Create 58 New Jobs in Bedford County

NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty today joined with representatives from Century Mold Co., Inc. to announce plans by the company to expand its Shelbyville facility located at 508 Blue Ribbon Parkway. The company will invest $4.2 million and create 58 manufacturing jobs.

“When an existing Tennessee company chooses to expand right here in our state, it reinforces the business friendly climate we are working hard to maintain and improve,” Haslam said. “I congratulate Century Mold Co., Inc. on its expansion in Shelbyville and thank them for the additional jobs they will create.”

“The automotive industry in Tennessee is steadily growing and thriving, and it’s exciting to see companies like Century Mold Co., Inc. prospering in our state.” Hagerty said.  “Our department will continue to work towards Governor Haslam’s goal of making Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs.”

Established in 1978 and headquartered in Rochester, N.Y., Century Mold Co., Inc. is primarily an injection molding supplier to the OEM automotive and heavy truck industry. The company’s automotive experience has translated into new markets of consumer products, emerging energy, military and office furniture industries. By 1993, Century Mold Co., Inc. expanded its operation to Shelbyville, Tenn. The company now has five locations between the United States and Mexico.

“Shelbyville has been the perfect fit for Century’s Mold Co., Inc.’s manufacturing facility for nearly 20 years now,” Ron Ricotta, CEO, Century Mold Co., Inc., said.  “We thank state and local officials for making this expansion a reality and look forward to continual success in Bedford County.”

“We appreciate Century Mold’s decision to expand its facility here in Shelbyville and are very proud to have the company as a part of our community,” Wallace Cartwright, Shelbyville mayor, said.  “I feel this is just a portion of what we have to look forward to in 2012.”

 “This is exciting news for Bedford County,” Eugene Ray, Bedford County mayor, said.  “I am very pleased that Century Mold Co., Inc. is adding additional jobs to our community.  

"We are extremely pleased that Century Mold Co., Inc. picked Shelbyville for its expansion,” Ben Craig, president, Shelbyville-Bedford County Chamber of Commerce, said.  “This expansion is recognition of the outstanding employees at the Shelbyville facility, the excellent available workforce for new positions and the supportive business climate in our community." 
 
Interested applicants should visit Workforce Solutions’ Bedford County office at 301 North Main Street in Shelbyville.

About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to develop strategies which help make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs. The department seeks to attract new corporate investment in Tennessee and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. To find out more, go to www.tn.gov/ecd.

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 (NASHVILLE, TN), January 13, 2012 -- The Tennessee State Senate recently approved a resolution sponsored by Senator Mike Faulk (R-Church Hill) honoring the memory of community activist Charles Fuller of Mount Carmel.  Fuller was a 16-year member of the Hawkins County Board of Education where he served as Chairman for several years. 

“Charles was a true public servant,” said Senator Faulk.  “His service to our community, state and nation sets a good example for a new generation to serve likewise.”

In addition to serving on the Board of Education, Fuller was a veteran of the U.S. Army, enjoyed a successful career with the Eastman Chemical Company, was an active member of the Oak Grove Baptist Church, a member of the First Utility District of Hawkins County, and active member of the Sons of the American Revolution.

The resolution honoring Fuller states, “Mr. Fuller leaves behind an indelible legacy of integrity and probity in public life, compassion and loyalty in private life and diligence and dedication in all his chosen endeavors.”

 “I am very honored to sponsor this resolution,” added Sen. Faulk.  “Hopefully, it expresses our state’s appreciation for all that this distinguished local citizen did for our community and state.”

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(NASHVILLE, TN), January 12, 2012  --  “This is tremendous news for Greene County.  I am pleased that the State of Tennessee could partner with J & J Warehousing and our local leaders to secure these jobs.  I look forward to continuing to work with our economic development team to bring new and better paying jobs to our communities.”

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The text of the release from Governor Haslam is below:

J&J WAREHOUSING & STORAGE EXPANDS IN GREENEVILLE
37 New Jobs Created over Three Years, $600,000 Investment

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty along with company and local officials announced today that J&J Warehousing & Storage, Inc. will expand operations, creating 37 new jobs over the next three years.  The Greeneville, Tenn. company manufactures and assembles welded components for the automotive industry.

“When our existing Tennessee industries expand, they are paving the way for us to reach our goal of becoming the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs, and I applaud J&J Warehousing for their additional investment in Tennessee,” Haslam said.  “Existing industries are the backbone of our state’s economy and account for the vast majority of all jobs created in our great state.” 

“Working with our partners in Greene County, we are excited that J&J Warehousing’s expansion is becoming a reality,” Hagerty added. 

The expansion is a result of another Greeneville, Tenn. company outsourcing its welding operations to J&J Warehousing instead of choosing an out of state or country provider and keeping the jobs local. 

J&J President Jerry Fortner said, “We’re very pleased to be able to assist in this effort, and we really appreciate the state of Tennessee in making this partnership possible.  J&J now has 11 employees at the site and will be increasing the numbers as this partnership demands.”

“Realizing in discussions that there was a shortage of welders in the available workforce, we initiated meetings to address this critical shortfall,” said Greene County Partnership President/CEO Tom Ferguson.  “Discussions with J&J revealed that the company actually had the capabilities of solving the outsourcing problem.  Not only does this solution provide additional local jobs, it holds down costs for transportation of parts to sources outside of the area.”

“This is one of the true benefits of a strong economic development program,” said Greene County Mayor Alan Broyles.  “We’d like to thank J&J for making the investment to create these new high-paying jobs.  We appreciate the Greene County Partnership for its pivotal role in making this happen, and, of course, we extend our gratitude to the state to pull it all together.”

J&J, which has been in business since 2002, is located on the 11E Bypass in Greeneville. 

About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to develop strategies which help make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs. The department seeks to attract new corporate investment in Tennessee and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. To find out more, go to www.tn.gov/ecd.

     (NASHVILLE, TN), January 10, 2012 – State Senator Mike Faulk (R-Church Hill) will serve as Chairman of the Senate Calendar Committee, Chairman of the Corrections Subcommittee and Vice-Chairman of the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee during the 2012 legislative session.  In addition, Faulk will serve as a member of the State and Local Government Committee and the Energy and Environment Committee in the State Senate.

The announcement was made as committee appointments and reassignments were made as the General Assembly reconvenes for the second session of the 107th General Assembly in Nashville. 

      The Calendar Committee is responsible for moving all bills heard in the State Senate to the floor for final action.  The Corrections Subcommittee reviews all matters regarding prisons.  The Commerce Committee hears legislation dealing with economic development, business, insurance, and business regulations, as well as employment matters.  The Energy and Environment Committee hears issues pertaining to the state’s energy conservation efforts, the preservation of the state’s natural resources, state parks, and the state’s tourism industry.  The State and Local Government Committee has jurisdiction over election law and legislation concerning all government entities, including municipalities, utility districts, the National Guard, veterans affairs, public lands and correctional institutions.

      "I am pleased to be appointed to these positions and look forward to working with my colleagues, Governor Haslam and our local officials to bring new opportunities to the citizens of this district.”  

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 (NASHVILLE, TN), January 9, 2012 -- State Senator Dolores Gresham (R-Somerville) said today she is very pleased that the federal government has approved numerous West Tennessee counties to receive federal assistance for agriculture as a result of severe weather, including drought and excessive heat in 2011.  The lawmaker was notified by Governor Bill Haslam’s office and other state officials regarding the requests made last month and subsequent declaration.

“Many area farms were affected by the drought and severe,” said Senator Gresham.  “This action should allow residents to access needed disaster funds.”

West Tennessee counties designated as primary natural disaster areas include Fayette and Haywood.  The secretarial disaster designation allows farmers in primary and adjoining counties to apply for Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments to help recover lost income, low-interest loans and other assistance through local USDA Farm Service Agency offices.
 
Adjoining West Tennessee counties where farmers can also apply for assistance include Crockett, Hardeman, and Tipton. 
 
Farmers in affected counties reported crop losses in excess of 30 percent for corn, soybeans, tobacco, pastures, hay and some specialty crops. For the latest crop forecast and statistics on Tennessee’s farm production, visit the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service, Tennessee Field Office online at www.nass.usda.gov/tn.
 
 
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