Week of March 12, 2007

Despite being accused of doing nothing more than “giving each other high-fives”, the Republicans in the Senate have been working hard on many issues.  Illegal immigration, medical malpractice reform and public safety are just a few of the areas that have received attention this week.

State Election Commission

On Monday night, Jimmy Wallace of Madison County and Mark Goins of Campbell County, were elected by the General Assembly to the State Election Commission.  They were nominated by the Republican Caucus.  Mr. Wallace and Mr. Goins have previously served on the Commission, and the Caucus was honored to support them both for another four year term.

Illegal Immigration

The Senate understands that one of the most important issues facing Tennessee is illegal immigration.  On Wednesday, the Senate voted unanimously to end a program that had made Tennessee a magnet for illegal aliens. 

In 2004 the driving certificate program was set up to make the roads in Tennessee safer.  A certificate of driving was issued if the applicant failed to provide documentation that they were a citizen of the United States, or documentation issued by the United States government establishing that they were a lawful permanent resident. The certificate that was issued clearly stated that it was “for driving purposes only—not valid for identification.”  It quickly became apparent that the program made Tennessee a magnet for illegal aliens wanting to get drivers licenses. SB 886 by Sen. Bill Ketron (R-Murfreesboro) legally abolishes the failed driving certificate program. 

Also on Wednesday, the Senate Transportation Committee, chaired by Sen. Jim Tracy (R-Shelbyville), unanimously approved a measure to give the Tennessee Highway Patrol authority to enforce immigration laws.  SB 1604 by Sen. Mark Norris (R-Collierville) encourages highway patrol officers to get certification to enforce federal immigration and customs laws while conducting their normal duties. Similar bills were passed last year relative to both subjects, however the legislation died in the House.

Medical Malpractice Reform

Throughout the week, Republican Senators have been working on compromise legislation to end the gridlock on medical malpractice reform. 

Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey (R-Blountville), in a speech to small business owners at a National Federation of Independent Business-sponsored event, said the compromise would “actually cut down on what’s really the problem — the frivolous lawsuits.”

“If we can get those moved out of court and say those are frivolous to begin with … that is a huge step in the right direction,” Ramsey said, adding that he’s “convinced” the compromise will save small business owners “big-time money” on health insurance premiums.  
                                                                                  -The City Paper
 

Sen. Bo Watson (R-Hixson) passed his first bill in the Senate this week.  SB 1144 was the culmination of years of work by Sen. Watson.  As amended, the bill would allow a licensed physical therapist to treat a patient without a referral under certain circumstances.

Sen. Jack Johnson’s (R-Brentwood) first bill is moving through the Senate as well.  SB 498 was passed by the Senate Transportation Committee this week.  The bill would redefine criminal offenses related to driving while viewing video broadcasts or installing such video equipment in motor vehicles.  It basically would prohibit drivers of automobiles from watching movies or doing business, like reading emails, by using a video screen located in the front seat

In the Judiciary Committee, Sen. Dewayne Bunch (R-Cleveland) passed SB 376. The bill would require law enforcement officers to conduct a test to determine the blood alcohol level of a driver involved in an accident resulting in injury or death if the officer has probable cause to believe the driver committed DUI, vehicular assault, vehicular homicide, or aggravated vehicular homicide.

More Big Talk on the Budget

While speaking at a photo opportunity on Sunday, Governor Bredesen expressed disappointment with members of the legislature.  While touting the enactment of a new government program, the Governor reiterated that he expects the legislature to pass his budget as presented.   

"I put a budget on the table that makes sense and puts an awful lot of money into local school systems," Bredesen said. "I think they should pass the budget as it sits, and I'm certainly going to fight for that."
                                                                           -Kingsport Times-News             

Republicans in the Senate have been quick to point out that each branch of government has different responsibilities.

Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris (R-Collierville) said relations remain "cordial" with the governor's office, despite some of the increased rhetoric. Norris recently told a Republican group that the governor's budget would not pass if a vote were taken immediately.

"The governor will readily admit that it is his responsibility to propose something, and sometimes all governors need to be reminded that it's the Legislature that disposes what he proposes," Norris said.
                                                                           -Associate Press