Tennessee House Republican Caucus

Assistant Majority Leader Brooks Releases Statement Regarding Amazon

18-May-2011
(NASHVILLE, May 18, 2011) – Assistant Majority Leader Kevin Brooks (R—Cleveland) released the following statement after the House Finance Subcommittee voted to take legislation off the calendar that would have forced a top company to pay state sales taxes. The legislation, HB 136, would have jeopardized an agreement between the State of Tennessee and Amazon which is bringing thousands of the jobs to Bradley County and surrounding areas.

Rep. Brooks stated:

“Amazon is going to be a strong partner for job growth in Tennessee for many years to come. I am incredibly pleased our Finance Chairman came to an agreement to roll this legislation off the calendar so we can focus on solidifying our agreement with Amazon. Furthermore, I believe we can now focus on recruiting other top tier companies and expand existing ones to create more job opportunities for our citizens.

“Last fall, this Majority was put in place because Tennesseans wanted a government that paves the way for job growth in the private sector. Today’s action sends a strong message we are committed to that mandate. Bradley County and all of Tennessee will benefit from our united vision to make Tennessee the top destination for high-quality jobs in the South.

“Most importantly, today’s courageous action demonstrates Tennessee’s integrity across the country. We gave our word—and we are keeping our word. This is a very important example for the next generation of Tennesseans.”