Tennessee's first measles case of 2025 was reported in Middle Tennessee, prompting public health officials to work on identifying potential exposures[1]. The state's economy is projected to outpace national growth in 2025, with the Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research forecasting a 2.5% increase in Tennessee's real GDP compared to 2% for the U.S. overall[3].

Governor Bill Lee delivered his 2025 State of the State address, outlining budget priorities including a $244 million increase for public school funding through the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) formula[12]. The governor also proposed a $50 million investment to support the development of the nation's first small modular nuclear reactor at the Clinch River Site[16].

In business news, a survey by the University of Tennessee's Boyd Center found that Tennessee employers overwhelmingly prioritize federal tax cuts and inflation control as beneficial to their companies[13]. The state continues to attract major corporations, with Governor Lee emphasizing this as an "economic win" while also acknowledging the importance of small businesses to the state's economy[17].

Severe weather impacted Tennessee in mid-February, with flooding affecting homes and damaging roads in some areas. The National Weather Service Memphis confirmed an EF-2 tornado touchdown in Gibson County[9]. The state is preparing for its annual Severe Weather Awareness Day to educate residents on safety measures[18].

In education, EdTrust-Tennessee responded positively to Governor Lee's proposed investments, including $7.2 million to expand retention bonuses for child care workers and $5.9 million to expand subsidized child care[12]. The governor also announced a new $12.1 million scholarship program, TennesseeWORKS, to cover tuition and fees at Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology for low-income students[12].

Environmental initiatives are gaining traction, with Tennessee ranking 6th in hydroelectric power generation and securing $7 billion in energy investments[8]. The state is also expanding its focus on renewable energy and sustainability sectors.

Looking ahead, Tennessee is set to host its annual Severe Weather Awareness Day, aiming to educate residents on preparedness[18]. The state legislature will continue debating Governor Lee's proposed budget and policy initiatives, including investments in nuclear energy and education. Additionally, the development of the Clinch River Site for a small modular reactor will be a key story to watch as it progresses through federal approval processes.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI