Senator Bailey and Speaker Sexton Preview of the 114th General Assembly (2026)

The Crossville-Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce held its annual legislative breakfast, co-hosted by TCAT Upper Cumberland. President Cliff Wightman served as emcee for the session, which featured comprehensive reports on state funding, infrastructure, and policy.

TCAT Upper Cumberland: Expansion & Infrastructure

President Wightman detailed how generous state funding for the trades is being utilized:

• TCAT Upper Cumberland North: A brand-new campus specializing in Diesel Powered Equipment Technology and Truck Driving.
• Main Campus Improvements: Plans include a new industrial building and expanded parking capacity.
• Regional Footprint: Growth now includes facilities in Bledsoe and Putnam counties, adding to the two Crossville campuses and the Overton county site.
• Service Area: The network is now positioned to serve students across 14 counties.

Senator Paul Bailey: Fiscal Health and Social Protections

Senator Bailey provided an economic outlook based on his perspective as a business owner and Chairman of the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee:

• Economic Indicators: Noted a slowing trend in the economy (evidenced by his own trucking business), suggesting a “tight budget year” ahead for Tennessee.
• The Rainy Day Fund: Highlighted a 12-year recovery that moved the state from a $300 million deficit to a $2 billion reserve.
• Population Pressure: Over 700,000 new residents have increased tax revenue but also heightened the demand for state services.
• Policy Priorities:
  • Addressing federal funding impacts related to the “Big Beautiful Bill.”
  • Securing a $50,000 minimum starting salary for teachers this year.
  • AI Oversight: Serving on a special committee to protect youth from tragedies like depression and suicide caused by the “false companionship” of AI technology.

Speaker Cameron Sexton: Infrastructure and Global Competition

Speaker Sexton addressed budget misconceptions and the state’s long-term competitive strategy:

• Budget Clarity: Refuted claims of “doubling” the budget; adjusted for inflation, the budget has only increased 1.8% annually
• Bond Ratings: Clarified that “spending” includes investments into the Rainy Day Fund, which secures attractive bond ratings for both the state and local counties.
• Tourism & Local Impact: State-wide investment in hiking trails and state park enhancements.
• Energy & Technology:
  • Investing in small modular nuclear reactors to meet the massive power needs of Quantum computing and networking.
  • Positioning Tennessee to compete internationally for major corporations.
• Global Access: Highlighted the expansion of Nashville International Airport (BNA) with direct flights to London and upcoming service to Asia.
• Public Safety: Noted that Memphis crime reached a 40-year low after an 80-day joint state/federal operation removed 4,000 violent individuals from the streets.
• Healthcare & Education:
  • Seeking better definitions for “basic healthcare” to align insurance options with consumer preferences and needs.
  • Combating the teacher shortage by exploring 2-year or hybrid degree programs with universities, focused on practical classroom needs.

Key Takeaway for Cumberland County & District 3

Plans are underway for a new lodge at Cumberland Mountain State Park, complementing recent improvements to the Cumberland Trail State Park.

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Thanks for stopping by and for caring about what’s happening in Cumberland County and District 3.

Craig