Senators approve Education and Consumer Bills as they start new legislative year

 (NASHVILLE, Tenn.), January 16, 2014 — The 2014 session of the 108th General Assembly began on Tuesday, January 14 with a vast array of issues on tap this year including the state budget, education, jobs, public safety, the courts, and drug abuse.  State Senators got right down to work on the first day of the legislative session, giving final approval to a bill requiring students to be taught the fundamentals of government and legislation to help ensure consumers that borrow money from lawsuit lenders are not charged excessive fees.

Under Senate Bill 1266 students would be taught the fundamentals of both Tennessee and U.S. government, including instruction in foundational documents.  This includes the U.S. and Tennessee Constitutions and other key documents like the Declaration of Independence.  The legislation leaves it up to the local boards of education to decide which grade the instruction is best suited.

The lawsuit lending legislation would regulate those who loan cash to plaintiffs awaiting judgments or settlements in civil lawsuits.  These cases can range from personal injury and automobile accidents to product liability issues.  Senate Bill 1360 seeks to rein in excessive fees and interest rates charged for the loans, which can exceed 100 percent interest.

Both bills are still pending consideration in committees in the House of Representatives.