I was proud to be one of more than 1,500 volunteers to participate in the 25th annual Hands On Nashville Day benefiting Metro Nashville Public Schools.

This year, we restored over $142 million in transportation funding that was previously taken from our highway fund. This funding will be critical in putting Tennessee back on the highway to success.

Grateful for the support from my neighbors and Governor Bill Haslam at my reception last night. I am so honored to represent you in the Tennessee General Assembly.

Spouses and children of veterans stationed in Tennessee are now eligible to receive in-state tuition rates at our higher education institutions after the State House passed HB 715 earlier this year. We will continue our efforts at the State Capitol to ensure our veterans and their families receive the benefits they deserve!

The Mission Tennessee for Veterans Program, passed this past legislative session, will allow healthcare providers who are in the National Guard to volunteer to treat veterans at Tennessee's military armories. Our hope is that this program will provide much needed medical relief to our state's veterans.

The Mission Tennessee for Veterans Program, passed this past legislative session, will allow healthcare providers who are in the National Guard to volunteer to treat veterans at Tennessee's military armories. Our hope is that this program will provide much needed medical relief to our state's veterans.

The Mission Tennessee for Veterans Program, passed this past legislative session, will allow healthcare providers who are in the National Guard to volunteer to treat veterans at Tennessee's military armories. Our hope is that this program will provide much needed medical relief to our state's veterans.

Due to unelected bureaucrats and typical D.C. red tape, Governor Haslam was forced to call the General Assembly back into session this week so we can secure $60 million in highway funding that your taxes have already paid for. I have faith that our legislators, unlike many in Washington, will work efficiently to secure the funds and then return home to their districts.

15 years later and freedom still prevails over evil. May we never forget those we lost on this tragic day.

Parents deserve to know how their children's schools are performing. That's why the State House passed legislation to enhance the online school report card system. Click the link below to see if your child's school is making the grade!

Thanks to the Tennessee Student Assessment Transparency Act of 2016, high school seniors that took the ACT as a junior can now retake the ACT free of charge. This is just another step the General Assembly has taken to empower students and provide them with the tools needed to excel in high school and beyond.

Happy Labor Day from the Harwell family!

We must not shy away from the ugly truth about human trafficking, and I will continue to do everything in my power to put a stop to it in Tennessee.

Tennessee was one of the most popular states to visit in 2015, resulting in a record economic impact of $18.4 billion! Every county in our state saw at least $1 million in revenue from tourism, and 19 counties saw over $100 million.

Interested in joining the campaign? Join our team today!

Thanks to conservative leadership, Tennessee has cut over $500 million in wasteful spending from our state budget since 2011. LIKE and SHARE if you think Washington should take note!

By cutting government waste and promoting economic growth, we have restored nearly $400 million to the state's Rainy Day Fund since 2011. This fund will serve as a vital resource in the event of another economic downturn.

Tennessee secured the 6th spot in a recent CATO Institute ranking of freedom in the 50 states, citing our pro-business fiscal policies and regulations as well as our low tax burden on individuals and families.

It’s an honor to be endorsed by the National Federation of Independent Businesses. Tennessee small businesses provide economic prosperity to families across the state, and I look forward to continuing my support of policies that allow our small businesses to flourish.

With 325,000 new private sector jobs in the last 4 years, and more on the way, Tennessee may need to change its nickname to the Worker State. Our state is at the top of the list for private sector companies when it comes to starting, expanding, or relocating.

Tennessee ranked #1 in the U.S. for advanced industry job growth since 2013, according to a new report from the Brookings Institute. Advanced industries employ 249,617 Tennesseans, with an average salary of $70,784, nearly 55% higher than all other industry averages.

ICYMI: Tennessee was named "State of the Year" by Southern Business and Development magazine for our success in attracting a wide variety of private sector investments over the past year. And according to TNECD, 2015 was the best year in economic development in our state's history!

Make your voice heard! By filling out this quick 5 question survey, you can let your elected officials know what is most important to you and your family.

Today, I joined the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to hold a press conference in regard to a recent anti-human trafficking operation that resulted in 41 arrests. I'm proud of the work the TBI has done to combat human trafficking in our state and look forward to continue working with them to end trafficking in Tennessee.

Tennessee renewed its commitment to the Drive to 55 program this year, which aims to equip 55 percent of Tennesseans with a college degree or certificate by 2025. Drive to 55 will ensure that Tennesseans are trained for a 21st century work force and put Tennessee at the top of the list when companies look to relocate or expand.

We appreciate all of our hard working teachers in Tennessee! That’s why more than half of the $260 million invested in our education system has gone to pay raises and additional insurance coverage for our teachers and faculty. Thank you for all that you do for our kids!

As Tennessee students begin heading back to school this week, parents can rest assured knowing that our public schools are stronger than ever thanks to the historic $260 million investment the Tennessee legislature approved this past session.

Help us spread the word! Tennessee's annual sales tax holiday begins this Friday. By moving the holiday up this year, parents will be able to take advantage of the tax holiday before the first day of school!

Rapid economic growth, historic investment in education, and a record number of tax cuts are just a few achievements we can point to as proof that conservative leadership has put Tennessee on a path to success.

Since Republicans took over as the majority party in 2011, graduation rates among our public school students have increased faster than any other state in the nation. With our historic investment in education this year, this number will only continue to rise!

In a recent study of more than 12,000 small businesses across the country, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah tied for the most business-friendly state ranking. #TNWorks

We are already starting to see the benefits of the largest investment in education our state has ever seen. Thank you to Rep. Harry Brooks and my colleagues in the House for continuing to make education a top priority.

This year, Pick Tennessee celebrates 30 years! Pick Tennessee was established in 1986 with the goal of helping our farmers and farm related businesses expand into new markets. It now serves more than 2,500 agricultural related businesses that provide over 10,000 products to consumers.

Proud to live in the land of the free and home of the brave!

I was glad to join Senator Ketron in cutting the ribbon at the Green Hills grocery store. It’s been a long wait, but wine is now officially on the shelves at grocery stores across Nashville.

Just another example that conservative leadership and lower taxes lead to economic prosperity. This should serve as a wake up call to our leaders in DC.

Tennessee has lost a legend with Pat Head Summitt’s passing. From her hometown of Henrietta, to her player days at UT-Martin, to achieving national prominence at Knoxville, Pat brought out the best in all that she knew. She leaves us far too soon. Today, Tennessee celebrates Pat’s life, and I extend my deepest sympathies to her family, friends, and players.

The road to retirement leads to Tennessee! A new report ranks our state #4 when it comes to the best states in which to retire. The report cites our tax friendly environment, low cost of living, and strong economic outlook as just some of the reasons to retire in Tennessee!

Tennessee received an A rating from Shared Hope International for our efforts to prevent human trafficking. In the State House, we will continue to do everything we can to end trafficking for good in our great state.

For the second year in a row, George Mason University’s Mercatus Center ranked Tennessee in the top ten in the U.S. for financial health. This study ranks each state’s financial outlook based on cash, budget, long-run, service-level, and trust fund solvency. The report also determined that Tennessee ranks “Above Average” in four out of the five categories.

Tennessee's fiscal house is in order as we continue to pass balanced budgets each and every year. And we do it while cutting taxes too!

Happy Father’s Day Sam. Thank you for always being there to be the rock that holds our family strong and being such a Godly example for our amazing children.

In April, Tennessee’s unemployment rate fell to 4.3%, its lowest level in a decade! And unlike the national average that has been distorted by counting people that have stopped looking for work, our state has actually seen an INCREASE in labor force participation while the unemployment rate has gone down.

My heart goes out to the victims of the tragedy in Orlando this morning. Please join me as we keep their families and friends in our thoughts and prayers.

ICYMI: Tennessee now has the highest bond rating issued from all three major credit rating agencies thanks to low taxes, balanced budgets, and business friendly regulations.

Yesterday I was honored to be at the renovation of Thistle Farms, an incredible group here in Nashville, founded by Rev. Becca Stevens, that serves as a sanctuary for women recovering from abuse, addiction, trafficking, and prostitution. Thanks to HGTV, Rebuilding Together Nashville, and #ListedSisters for taking on this great project! #SheBuilds

More than 300,000 Tennesseans served in the armed forces during World War II, and 5,731 of those gave their lives for our country. Today, we remember the sacrifice made by so many of those brave men during the Invasion of Normandy. We are forever grateful.

I’m heartbroken to hear of the tragic passing of Pilot Marine Capt. Jeff Kuss. Please join me in keeping his family in your thoughts and prayers.

On this day in 1796, Tennessee became the 16th state in the Union. And 220 years later, Tennessee is better than ever!

Today we remember those that made the ultimate sacrifice to defend not only our freedom but the freedom of people around the world. God bless them and their families.

This year Tennessee made its largest investment in education without a tax increase in our history, that included funding for new training, health insurance benefits, and much deserved pay raises for our teachers.

On this Armed Forces Day, take the time to thank the active duty member or veteran in your life.

And they won’t be so sorely missed.

And they won’t be so sorely missed.

Through conservative reforms, Tennessee has become one of the most business friendly states, and the private sector has hired over 225,000 people since 2011. #TNWORKS

Legislation passed the full House this year that will strengthen and make the Veterans Education Transition Support (VETS) program available to private, non-profit institutions of higher education throughout the state, making it easier for our veterans to go to college in Tennessee.

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there.

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11: 224 #NationalDayofPrayer

Join me on Teacher Appreciation Day and click SHARE to show your favorite teacher your admiration for their work.

The best state in the nation just got even better. #TNWorks

Last week, the House voted to repeal the Hall Tax by 2022, saving Tennessee taxpayers tens of millions of dollars every year.

During the 2016 legislative session, the Tennessee House has passed 17 bills that will help veterans and their families. And I can assure you, we are not done!

President Reagan said it best! Here's to hoping that leaders in Washington take his words to heart.

While Washington wastes time arguing, we here in Tennessee are busy at work attracting new, good-paying jobs. Just this week, Beretta opened for business and Hankook Tire announced 200 new jobs with a $5 million investment. It goes to show you that our conservative leadership works, and I’m happy to be a part of it. #TNWorks

Parents deserve to know how well their children’s schools are performing. That’s why the House recently passed HB 155, which directs the State Board of Education to give schools an A through F grade based on factors like academic achievement and student growth.

Last week, the Focus on College and University Success (FOCUS) Act passed the State House with bipartisan support. This bill gives Tennessee’s college and university systems the power to form their own governing boards that can make the best decisions for each institution based on their needs at a local level.

Earlier this month, the Tennessee General Assembly was honored to be named the "Most Conservative State Legislature" at CPAC. Tennessee will continue fighting for common sense, conservative solutions that lead our state in the right direction.

The Tennessee House of Representatives continues to fight for the men and women that fight for us. I’m proud of the work my colleagues in the State House have done to help our active military and our veterans.

He is risen! Happy Easter!

WIshing you a blessed Good Friday

80% of Tennessee land is used for agricultural purposes, and we appreciate all that our farmers and agricultural workers do for this state. Today, we celebrated Ag Day on the Hill with our annual corn shucking and shelling contest where the House continued its winning streak!

I have served alongside Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey for many years, and I have the utmost respect for him. He dedicated his time in public service to making Tennessee a great state. He often says that it matters who governs, and indeed it does—Tennessee has had a great leader in Ron Ramsey. I know he will enjoy being able to spend more time with Sindy and with his precious grandchildren. I wish him the very best and thank him for his service.

Today, we say goodbye to former First Lady Nancy Reagan who served as an inspiration to millions of young women across the world. May her legacy continue to live on in the hearts and minds of all those she inspired.

Next week, the full House of Representatives will consider the Rural Economic Opportunity Act of 2016, which will provide rural counties with funding to assist in the development of infrastructure projects in order to be better positioned to attract new businesses. It will also provide tax credits to companies looking to expand and hire new workers in rural areas. I'm looking forward to voting for this important legislation. #TNWorks

Saturdays were never the same without him and now Sundays will lose a little Rocky Top. Congratulations on an amazing career Peyton. #VFL

Today the House passed HB 1537, which enacts recommendations from the Education Task Force including eliminating unnecessary high school tests, allowing students to retake the ACT and SAT free of charge, and requiring that statewide assessment questions and answers be released annually. I’m proud of the work our legislature continues to do to improve education for all Tennessee students.

While our Federal Government has now surpassed $19 TRILLION in debt, Tennessee continues to balance the budget while also having the lowest debt per capita and continuing to cut taxes every year. Yet again it seems Tennessee works, while Washington idles. #TNWorks

Tennessee is dedicated to the #enditmovement. We have passed several bills to take aim at human traffickers, and Tennessee has maintained an "A" grade by Shared Hope International.

This bill will take steps to avoid tragedies like the one in Chattanooga. Sign the petition today and tell your Representative that you support the safety of our Tennessee National Guard.

As the federal government continues to grow under Barack Obama, it is more important than ever that our state legislatures do everything in their power to protect states’ rights.

Today we honor those who have risen to the highest office in our land. From the reluctant president to the current, we do not have to share their politics to honor their service to our great nation. May God bless our United States of America.

Presidential primary early voting has started in Tennessee. Take the straw poll and show support for your candidate.

Tennessee is leading the way in promoting rural economic development. Last year, we announced $1 million in new funding to develop tourist assets in rural parts of the state, and I created the Task Force on Rural Economic Development so we could hear your ideas on the best ways to promote economic growth in our small cities and towns. Sign up now to receive updates and find out about the next meeting near you!

What a game. Congratulations to world champion Peyton Manning. #VFL

Happy birthday Mr. President.

The State of the State of Tennessee is strong as Governor Bill Haslam pointed out tonight. As he mentioned, our Republican-led General Assembly has created more than $225 million recurring tax cuts since 2011 alone, and we have a budget surplus. We now have the lowest debt per capita of any state in the nation and we’ve proposed the largest investment in K-12 education in Tennessee’s history - without a tax increase! If only folks in Washington would pay attention. We are laying out a blueprint on how a government should operate, and I’ve never been more proud to be a part of it. - BH

Due to severe weather conditions, all state offices are CLOSED today. TEMA has declared a Level 3 State of Emergency, so stay safe and warm out there. On days like this, I am particularly grateful for the work of our first responders. Join me in thanking them! http://www.tnema.org

On this day 35 years ago, Ronald Reagan gave us this wisdom which is still relevant today. "In this present crisis, government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem." - President Ronald Reagan

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. embodies the Tennessee values of faith and freedom. LIKE this post to help me celebrate Dr. King's legacy.

Tennesseans can breath easier now that the "Death Tax" is completely repealed as of the first of this year. Now, our small business owners and farmers can pass the fruits of their labors off to future generations without the fear of crippling taxes.

Excited to kick off the 2016 legislative session this week. Looking forward to a great year making Tennessee the best place to live, work, own and operate a business, and raise a family!

More of the same and another disappointing speech from President Obama. What are your thoughts? -BH

Take the survey and let us know what you think your State Legislature should focus on this session.

President Obama's executive order is another example of alarming executive overreach, and shows a disrespect for legislative authority.

Happy New Year everyone. Let's make this year the best yet.

From my family to yours, we hope you travel safe this season and have a merry Christmas.

Thank you to our first responders for your bravery and dedication to Tennesseans. My thoughts and prayers are with all affected by last night's severe weather. http://wkrn.com/2015/12/24/2-killed-in-perry-county-storms-nws-to-survey-damage/

Join us in congratulating Speaker Harwell on her 100% score with The American Conservative Union.

The act in Chattanooga was rightfully deemed a terrorist attack, and we must do everything we can to prevent these attacks in the future. I am also glad to see the four Marines and one sailor who were killed and the one Marine who was injured will receive the Purple Heart. I'm grateful for the service of our men and women in uniform.

Tennessee has truly become a safe haven for small businesses and the jobs they offer. Year after year, we are setting the bar high and exceeding projections. Folks in the White House should take a note at how #TNWorks.

Be sure to tune in online and watch the live hearing of the Joint State Government Committee this afternoon at 1:00 PM CST to discuss the resettlement of refugees to Tennessee. -> http://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/schedule/

December 7, 1941 is a day that will live in infamy. Pearl Harbor was attacked and in response, America stood up and annihilated the culprit. This generation didn't give over-hyped speeches, or make meaningless threats, they simply strapped their boots up and fought for our safety the same way we should today.

Unlike Washington, we balance our budget each year, keeping our promise to Tennessee taxpayers to be fiscally responsible. #TNWORKS

I hope everyone travels safe this Thanksgiving Holiday. Have a blessed time with your friends and families.

In case you missed it, Tennessee has broken the previous state record for new business filings, reaching 8,289 in the third quarter. Tennessee's economy continues to grow, thanks to our small business owners.

We want you to be free to create jobs…We understand in the state of Tennessee that ‘profit’ is not a dirty word.

Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey and I released the following statement in response to the refugees entering our state: Recent events have made it clear that the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) is ramping up its operations of terror against the United States and Europe. Tennessee itself experienced an act of terrorism just a few months ago in Chattanooga. Our thoughts and prayers are with the citizens of France. The mass movement of legitimate refugees seeking asylum is heartbreaking, and our heart goes out to each and every man, woman and child who is fleeing legitimate political persecution. But the opportunity that radical Islamists could embed themselves in the movement of refugees is large and growing. These refugees are impossible to thoroughly investigate and properly vet. Out of an abundance of caution, we must use any and all legal means at our disposal to stop the flow of refugees to Tennessee. We are calling for our federal representatives to place an immediate moratorium on refugees entering the United States, specifically Tennessee.

Tennessee's success in creating jobs should not be credited to our state government unless the conversation is based around our success at getting out of the way of small business owners. These are the men and women who deserve credit. They built their business and grow our economy, not the government.

To all our veterans, I have a simple, yet heartfelt, message: Thank you, all of you, for your service. I want you to know that your example serves to inspire others who follow in your footsteps. Thank you for your selfless service in peacetime and war, here in this nation and throughout the world. All veterans, regardless of their service and the era in which they have served, have paid a price for the freedom we enjoy. God bless our veterans.

As your Speaker of the House, I'm dedicated to maximizing the potential of our state regardless of a community's population. This is why I've created a task force on rural economic development to identify barriers that hinder economic growth in our rural areas and small cities. You can keep up to date with the process or sign up to join an event by clicking below.

The memorial service for Fred Thompson this morning was beautiful. A fitting tribute for a true statesman.

The memorial service for Senator Fred Thompson will be held at the War Memorial Auditorium in downtown Nashville at 10a.m. on Friday, October 6th. In lieu of flowers, the Thompson family has asked for donations to be made to Alive Hospice, Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee, The Mayo Clinic, and MusiCorps.

Fred Thompson left an indelible mark on this state. Over his long and accomplished career, he never forgot where he came from--he was a Tennessean through and through. I am honored and proud to have known him, and to have called him a friend. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Thompson family during this difficult time.

In case you missed it, Advanced Munitions International, Intermedix, Morgan Olson, and Regal Entertainment Group all announced new investments this month, creating 1,200 jobs in our great state. It's another great example of companies flocking to Tennessee for our conservative principles and policies. #TNWorks

The Tennessee State Report Card data was released last week showing our state's graduation rate at an all time high of 87%. Our teachers, administrators, and students deserve a huge pat on the back for their hard work and I look forward to breaking this record again next year. #TNWorks

Washington's disarray and poor management is preventing our veterans from the support they were guaranteed. In Tennessee we respect our veterans rather than putting them to the side. The country they put before themselves is failing them. It is time for Washington to give our veterans the respect they deserve.

Have you taken the poll yet? Click below and have your voice heard by casting your vote for who you think should be the Republican nominee.

A little over a year ago the Tennessee Promise Scholarship began, giving young Tennesseans a path to better themselves, as well as those around them. I am excited to share that we ended up with a fall enrollment of 15,895 Tennessee Promise students in the first year. 33,860 students have already applied this year, but we still haven't reached our goal of having 50% of eligible seniors in each county. Help these students reach their potential by urging them to apply online today. The deadline is November 2nd.

It has been just over half a century since the great Tennessean Alvin C. York has passed away. Upon Sergeant York's arrival home from becoming a war hero in the First World War, he continued to fight for education and roads in his home town. Sergeant York's story continues to remind me there is always more work to be done in Tennessee and helps inspire me to keep fighting in our State House.

At a time when our nation needs a stronger national security than ever before, Democrats in Washington are looking to cut military funding to make up for their spending mishaps. Here in Tennessee, we operate under a balanced budget and never risk our citizen’s security over anything. Period.

West Tennessee always makes for a great visit. I thoroughly enjoyed my time visiting Jackson and I'd like to thank you all who joined us Milan for the Rural Economic Development Task Force meeting.

The Tennessee Department of Labor has partnered with major employers across the state to connect veterans with jobs. The “Paychecks for Patriots” hiring fairs will be held on October 1, 2015, throughout Tennessee and will feature local employers interested in putting veterans to work. If you or someone you know is interested, sign up today at www.jobs4tn.gov!

Tomorrow, flags will be at half-staff as we honor a true hero and iconic Tennessean. After 72 years, the remains of United States Marine 1st Lieutenant Alexander Bonnyman have been brought home to Tennessee after he was killed in action on November 22, 1943. Lt. Bonnyman was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism in battle on the island of Betio. Please join me in taking a moment to remember Lt. Bonnyman’s ultimate sacrifice.

Tennessee has some of the greatest police officers in the nation and I'd like to thank them for the protection and help they provide in our times of need. Join me by commenting below and thanking a hero in blue that you care about. #ThankAPoliceOfficerDay

As our White House Administration continues to ignore the supreme law of the land, I ask you to take a stand on National Constitution Day and join me in fighting for the rights our Founding Fathers risked everything for. Click SHARE and show that you stand with our Founding Fathers.

Under President Obama, the Land of the Free has become more of the Land of the "Kinda" Free. According to Fraser Institute's annual report of economic freedom, the United States economic freedom has plummeted since Obama took office. While folks in Washington continue down this disastrous path, we in Tennessee will continue to block the president and anyone else that dares to hinder our great state's record of success and freedom.

On this day in 1814, the American Flag was raised over Fort McHenry signaling victory over the British in the Battle of Baltimore and inspiring Francis Scott Key to write The Star-Spangled Banner. Join me in celebrating one of the most significant victories of our nation and the birth of our national anthem.

I wanted to take a minute and share with you some of the photos from the conference this week. I can’t begin to tell you how impressed everyone was with Tennessee and how honored I am to be your Speaker.

We will never forget the innocent men and women who lost their lives fourteen years ago today.

I'm honored to be hosting this year's National Speakers Conference here in Nashville and excited to show everyone what's great about Tennessee.

It's game day in NASHVILLE! Have a great Labor Day weekend everyone and #GOVOLS #GBO

With schools back in session, we have received good news about the gains being made by our students. This year has been the largest ACT gains to date since testing began. Just goes to show you that #TNWorks whether it's education, jobs, or tourism. We're available anytime Washington wants to take a note.

Tennessee ✓ Best place to do business ✓ Best place to raise a family ✓ Best place to visit if you aren't lucky enough to live here.

Tennessee's conservative leadership is attracting businesses from around the world. #TNWORKS

Tennessee has the lowest debt per capita while DC continues to build our national debt to over $18 trillion. #TNWORKS

As Speaker of the House, it is an honor for me to preside in an historic chamber where the women’s right to vote was debated and the deciding vote was cast to give women across the country that right. The country watched Tennessee as we were the deciding state in the ratification of the 19th Amendment—giving women the right to vote. The story is so interesting, and I have a personal connection to it. By 1920, 35 states had ratified the 19th Amendment—one short of the number needed to amend the U.S. Constitution. A special session of the TN General Assembly was called to consider ratification. A pivotal vote belonged to Representative Harry Burn, a Republican from McMinn County, who was considered to be undecided. On the morning of the vote, Representative Burn received a note from his mother who asked her son to vote in favor of ratification. When the House clerk conducted the roll call for ratification, he called Representative Burn’s name. As we all know, Representative Burn did what any good son does by making his mother proud. He voted “Aye.” Mrs. Burn’s note to her son changed the course of history and gave millions of American women the right to vote as Tennessee became the final state needed to ratify the Constitution. You’re probably wondering my connection to it. My great-aunt was in the gallery that day. Her mother, anticipating it could be an historic day, let her skip school to witness it. As I sit in the same chamber as the first female Speaker of the House, I remember those who came before us, and fought for our rights.

It may be a long shot, but I've been waiting on Washington to balance our federal budget for far too long. It's past time our nation balances the budget the same way Tennessee does and the same way our local families and businesses have done for years.

70 years ago today, the US learned of Japan's surrender and the end of WWII. I ask you to join me in remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice as well as the over 300,000 Tennesseans that risked everything in creating the world that we know today.

I want to thank Major General Max Haston for joining us at today's hearing where we discussed how to keep our military men and women in Tennessee safe.

A big win for the good guys. Tennessee Army and Air National Guard members with carry permits will now be allowed to carry firearms at State Armories and facilities. This change in policy will allow our service men and women to defend themselves if needed while they are working to protect us.

Don't forget! Tomorrow starts Tennessee's Annual Back to School Tax-Free Weekend. The entire weekend will be tax-free on school items including clothes, supplies, and computers. See the complete list of products that qualify by clicking here: http://www.tn.gov/revenue/article/sales-tax-holiday

My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the shooting today in Antioch. I am so grateful for the heroics of the first responders, because their actions saved many lives today.

As your Speaker of the House, I'm calling a hearing to address our prison staffing issues as well as the safety of our state's military and national guard. Both issues are of great importance and should be dealt with as quickly as possible. I ask you to join our lawmakers in support by keeping us in your prayers and thoughts as we tackle the issues at hand.

Our state continues to lead the nation year after year. If you ever needed convincing that conservative action works - this is it. #TNWORKS

The EPA is out of control. I'm proud to announce that our state has joined with others to demand #WOTUS be overturned. We should not stand by and allow this federal overreach.

Help us wish Speaker Harwell a Happy Birthday! Sign her card in the link below!!!