Tennessee’s strong economy and vibrant business environment were the focal points of Gov. Bill Haslam’s annual address to Chamber members on Jan. 26.
Citing the more than 100 active construction projects in Davidson County alone, Haslam said the rapid growth Tennessee and Nashville have been experiencing is no accident. “People are making smart decisions in the private sector,” he said. “Let’s double down on what has led to that success.”
Our state is operating with a budget surplus, and Haslam said he plans to dedicate the increased revenue toward education. Noting that Tennessee has continued to make great strides in this area, Haslam said we “can’t back up” in terms of education reform.
Haslam’s Drive to 55 plan, which aims to get 55 percent of Tennesseans equipped with a college degree or certificate by 2025, will be a major emphasis of his administration during this legislative session. “Drive to 55 will continue to stoke our economy,” he said.
