Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee has declined to accept over $84 million in federal funds for summer food assistance for low-income children, opting instead for a smaller, state-funded program that covers only 15 counties, leaving many children in urban areas without support. Despite urging from community leaders and advocates, the decision aligns with a broader Republican trend of rejecting federal welfare expansion, potentially impacting thousands of hungry children and the local economy.
Flu activity is sharply rising near Chattanooga, Tennessee, with several surrounding counties reporting the highest rates in the state, driven by circulating influenza A(H3N2). Health officials recommend vaccination and early treatment, as the season remains active with increased hospitalizations and some deaths.
A former Tennessee lawmaker, Robin Smith, received a reduced sentence to probation after cooperating in a corruption case involving ex-House speaker Glen Casada and aide Cade Cothren, whose prison sentences were pardoned by Trump. Smith's cooperation helped secure convictions, and her sentence was shortened from eight months to one year of probation, with her attorneys seeking a presidential pardon.
Tennessee has implemented the US's first registry of domestic abusers, named after Savanna Puckett, to help prevent future tragedies by maintaining a database of individuals convicted of multiple domestic violence offenses, although it is not retroactive and only includes offenses after January 1.
Tennessee reported 189 cases of the drug-resistant fungus Candida auris in 2025, part of a nationwide increase in infections that pose a serious threat to vulnerable patients in healthcare settings due to its resistance to multiple antifungal drugs and ability to spread on surfaces and equipment.
A poll is asking Tennessee residents whether they believe medical marijuana should be legalized in the state, reflecting ongoing debates about drug policy and healthcare options.
Kyle Chrisley, son of TV personalities Todd and Julie Chrisley, was arrested in Rutherford County, Tennessee, on multiple charges including domestic assault and resisting arrest, marking his latest legal trouble. The incident follows a previous arrest in September 2024 for aggravated assault, which led to a lawsuit against the sheriff's office. His parents recently received presidential pardons after serving prison sentences for financial crimes.
Tennessee lawmakers from both parties are calling for reform of state marijuana laws following the federal reclassification of cannabis to Schedule III, with Democrats advocating for medical use and decriminalization, while some Republicans remain opposed due to concerns about safety and efficacy.
Kata Hay, a former 'The Voice' contestant, was arrested in Oklahoma on a Tennessee warrant for vehicular homicide related to a crash near I-65, and will be extradited to Tennessee; she has a history of legal issues including a previous DUI and charges of sexual contact with a minor.
Country singer Jelly Roll, born Jason Deford, was pardoned by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee for past criminal convictions, including robbery and drug possession, which he committed before his music career. The pardon, granted after a review by the parole board and supported by community and civic leaders, will help him with international touring and missionary work, highlighting his journey of redemption and positive influence.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee pardoned country star Jelly Roll for his past convictions, recognizing his journey of redemption through music, advocacy, and personal growth, which included overcoming drug addiction and criminal behavior.
Jelly Roll, the country singer, received a pardon from Tennessee Governor Bill Lee for past convictions related to robbery and drug crimes from 2003, highlighting his story of redemption and his desire to inspire others through his music and faith.
Jelly Roll, a country-rap artist with a criminal past including robbery and drug felonies, was pardoned by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, recognizing his journey of redemption through music, advocacy, and personal growth, which has also helped him gain opportunities for international travel and Christian missionary work.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee pardoned musician Jelly Roll, acknowledging his journey from a troubled past involving robbery and drug convictions to a successful career and advocacy for second chances, highlighting his redemption story and support from community leaders.
Country singer Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, received a full pardon from Tennessee Governor Bill Lee for past crimes including robbery and drug possession, which allows him to travel internationally and perform missionary work freely, symbolizing his redemption story.
