Tennessee Legislature Reconvenes in Nashville

Key issues on the agenda include education, immigration, minimum wage, and healthcare.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The Tennessee Legislature is returning to Nashville tomorrow, with several high-profile issues on the agenda. A major focus will be the Education Freedom Act, which includes a push for school vouchers led by Governor Bill Lee and Republican leadership. Immigration legislation is also being considered, including a proposal that would require all state and local government employers to use E-Verify for work authorization. Additionally, there is a controversial plan to allow schools to block undocumented children from enrolling. Minimum wage is another key topic, with some House members wanting to raise it from $7.25 to $20 per hour. Democratic lawmakers are prioritizing expanded healthcare access and affordability.

Why it matters

The Tennessee Legislature's decisions on these issues will have significant impacts on the state's education system, workforce, economy, and access to healthcare. The debates around school vouchers, immigration, and minimum wage are particularly contentious and could reshape the landscape in Tennessee.

The details

The Education Freedom Act is a major focus for Governor Bill Lee and Republican leadership, who are pushing for expanded school voucher programs. On the immigration front, legislators are considering a bill that would mandate the use of E-Verify for all state and local government employers. There is also a controversial proposal that would allow schools to block undocumented children from enrolling. Minimum wage is another hot-button issue, with some House members wanting to raise it from the current $7.25 per hour to $20 per hour. Democratic lawmakers are prioritizing expanded access and affordability of healthcare.

  • The Tennessee Legislature reconvenes in Nashville tomorrow, February 17, 2026.

The players

Bill Lee

The Governor of Tennessee and a Republican who is leading the push for the Education Freedom Act and school vouchers.

Chris Hurt

A State Representative serving Obion and Weakley Counties.

Rusty Grills

A State Representative serving Obion and Weakley Counties.

Tandy Darby

A State Representative serving Obion and Weakley Counties.

John Stevens

A State Senator serving Obion and Weakley Counties.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure that all Tennesseans have access to quality education, regardless of their background or zip code.”

— Governor Bill Lee (thunderboltradio.com)

What’s next

The Tennessee Legislature will debate and vote on these key issues over the coming weeks, with the potential for heated discussions and close votes.

The takeaway

The Tennessee Legislature's upcoming session will tackle several divisive issues that could significantly impact the state's education system, workforce, economy, and healthcare landscape. The debates around school vouchers, immigration, and minimum wage will be closely watched as they have the potential to reshape the political and social dynamics in Tennessee.