Virtually any issue concerning the state, local,
country and world community can be (and probably has
been) introduced and discussed among the members of
the General Assembly.
Since the details of each proposed law can change up
until minutes before the final vote, I refrained
from co-sponsoring many bills. This last minute
ability to alter proposed legislation could also
cause an issue with expressing support too early in
the debating process.
There were, however, guiding principles I made very
clear during campaigns and held to throughout all
debates.
SPENDING In order for us to build a successful
tomorrow, we must begin with a proven financial
foundation. This is the case in every economic scenario.
If we continue to make bad business decisions, spend
unwisely, and waste time and taxpayer dollars on matters
that are not of state importance, we will fail in our
duty as legislators.
There will always be individuals that plow through their
earnings and waste what they have. But for those of us
in government—servants of the people, stewards of
taxpayer money—there should be no greater shame than to
fail our fiscal obligation to the taxpayer.
I believe that any state agency or program should,
periodically, be re-evaluated. This ensures
accountability on behalf of the taxpayer, and shows a
necessary prudence when implementing new, costly
programs.
BUSINESS The truth is business drives the job growth
in our economy. We must make it easier, not harder, for
businesses to not only survive but thrive. Tennesseans
are a very generous people and we will continue to care
for those who cannot help themselves. The disabled and
children; but every able bodied person must and should
work.
EDUCATION Education starts at home; parental
involvement and support throughout a child’s education
is paramount to their success. Improvement
in the quality of the education available to children of
all income and social classes in this nation should be
our goal, whether that education is provided in
government or private schools or at home.
FAMILY ISSUES It is heart breaking to see the
results of our weakening family unit and the dire
consequences this has on our society. The breakdown of
our families leads to increased crime, increased drug
usage, increased unmarried childbirth and low graduation
rates. This in turn leads to a cyclical repeat in the
next generation which causes poverty and a dependency
upon government. I believe the answer to our social
ills is not a new government program, but the
strengthening of our families. Only the family can
raise, train and educate the next generation to be
productive and law abiding citizens...
LIFE In 2001 our state Supreme Court
decided that the Tennessee Constitution does not allow
any restrictions upon abortion, including partial-birth
abortion, which means that we are one of the most
liberal states in the nation in regards to abortion.
That is why I supported a constitutional amendment that
would overturn our Supreme Court's decision and allow
adopting of common-sense regulations on abortion, such
as waiting periods and counseling.
MARRIAGE I was a co-sponsor to the constitutional
amendment which passed overwhelmingly in our State in
2004 that defines marriage as between one man and one
woman.
CRIME The protection of our citizens is one of
the most important functions of state government and the
primary goal is the punishment of those convicted of
criminal activity.
ENVIRONMENT
IMMIGRATION While there are ongoing attempts to
control the illegal immigration wave
faced by America today, the struggle between Federal and
State governments over which level has the oversight and
enforcement powers, there is a way for the average
business owner to insure the legal compliance of his
employees. By following this link, employers can,
depending on the number of social security numbers
submitted, receive confirmation of the validity of
provided social security numbers either instantly or
within 30 days.
2nd AMENDMENT I am a proud defender of our
right to own guns. I think this right goes hand
in hand with the right to vote. If these two rights are
ever lost, all other rights that
we have will quickly be lost as well. I was one of the
sponsors to the legislation
which was called the “castle doctrine”. This bill made
it clear that you have a right
to defend yourself and your family, with any force
necessary from anyone who is
threatening the safety of your home
