HB1739/SB1596 passed the Senate 25-6 on Thursday, March 21. The proposed law extends the termination date for the TSU board to June 30 of this year. An amendment filed by Sen. Jon Lundberg (R-Bristol) allows the board to exist, but eliminates its members. Sen. Lundberg previously called the move "typical of reconstituting."
TSU students have previously said they're frustrated after not having a voice in the process. State lawmakers have also voiced concern over the bill, with Sen. Charlane Oliver (D-Nashville-D19) saying a bill "of this affect leads to mistrust."
Sen. Oliver notes the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) has already dealt with underfunding, which she states the legislature is at fault for.
On the other hand, Sen. Lundberg (R-Bristol-D4) stated the move is "typical of reconstituting."
The bill moves forward with the House voting on March 28. Stick with FOX 17 News as we bring you the latest.
