04/09/06
 

The previous report, (04/05/06), is carried here. One big change is that the helmet bills (HB0456/SB0807) are both scheduled to be heard on Tuesday, April 11. The Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee will hear it Tuesday morning at 8:30. The House Budget Sub Committee will hear the bill at 1:30 on Tuesday in HR 16. This schedule is subject to change and the final schedule will be posted on Monday morning. When it comes out, I will pass it along.

The House Budget Sub Committee is likely to be the most difficult hurdle we have to get over. As of right now, we have four members in favor and four against. The Chairman, Harry Tindell, leans our way but may or may not vote to break a tie.

The following four Representatives have said they will vote against the bill:

Joe Armstrong from Knoxville. Rep. Armstrong has a number of hospitals and medical business companies located in his district so it would be difficult for him to vote against us. He has told me he will remain silent and not speak against the bill.

615-741-768 rep.joe.armstrong@legislature.state.tn.us

Kim McMillan Rep. McMillan holds a powerful leadership position but has said repeatedly she won't support the helmet bill. However, she is not running for re-election so she may be open to a change in her stand.  Her district is around Clarksville.

615-741-6043 rep.kim.mcmillan@legislature.state.tn.us

Doug Overbey Rep. Overbey has never for with us and gives no hint that he ever will. Wayne Shaub worked this guy for years and nothing changed. We can always take one more shot at it however. His district centers in Maryville and he needs to hear from some of you.

615-741-981 rep.doug.overbey@legislature.state.tn.us

Johnny Shaw Rep. Shaw is a good guy but he's not with us on this issue.  A few constituent calls and or emails might just do the trick. Anyone from his district south and east of Jackson, please give him a call or an email.

615-741-4538 rep.johnny.shaw@legislature.state.tn.us

These people need to hear loud and clear from their constituents. An email, a phone call, anything to let them know that they are displeasing some of the people who elected them.


Good Guys

The following Representatives support the helmet bill. It is equally important that you contact them to let them know that their support is appreciated.

Mike Harrison Rep. Harrison has supported this bill from day one. His district is east of Kingsport on the Kentucky border. Please let him know his efforts are appreciated.

615-741-7480 rep.mike.harrison@legislature.state.tn.us

Steve McDaniel Rep. McDaniel is a staunch Southerner and has voted with us every time. He's very proudly from the area around Parker's Crossroad where we used to hold state campouts. Call him and thank him.  He's been there for us every time.

615-741-750 rep.steve.mcdaniel@legislature.state.tn.us

Robert McKee Rep. McKee is another staunch supporter of ours. He agrees with us about the importance of freedom in this country. He's from around Athens, off 75 halfway between Chattanooga and Knoxville.  Please thank him for caring.

615-741-1946 rep.bob.mckee@legislature.state.tn.us

Randy Rinks Rep. Rinks is a member of the House leadership team and has helped us greatly talking to his fellow representatives. He's an important man to have in our corner. Please let him know you appreciate his efforts.

615-741-2007 rep.randy.rinks@legislature.state.tn.us

There you have it. That's the plan. Tues. morning at 8:30 for the Senate and Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 for the House. This is a big day.  Because of the Budget Sub, our most crucial day yet. Please come on down and pack these two committee rooms.

jp