Tennessee House Republican Caucus

Rep. Brooks: Responsible Budgeting, Spending Reductions Key to Long-Term Economic Growth

17-Jun-2011
(June 17, 2011, CLEVELAND) – At a ceremony today to present an Archives Grant from the Secretary of State to the Cleveland Historical Library in downtown Cleveland, Representative Kevin Brooks (R—Cleveland) took time to reflect on the accomplishments of the General Assembly and look forward to next year’s legislative session.

“This grant is a small investment in the community that is a responsible act of government. Unfortunately, in this year’s legislative session, our Majority had to spend a lot of time cutting red tape and closing avenues of government irresponsibility,” said Brooks.

As an example, he cited the General Assembly’s historic early close prior to Memorial Day—the earliest adjournment in 13 years—that ended up saving Tennesseans nearly $500,000 alone.

“There is no reason for the General Assembly to be working any longer than is absolutely necessary. Delaying adjournment only costs Tennesseans and that is when government grows. Our Majority is committed to ensuring we always get out in a timely manner,” said Brooks.

He also highlighted other successes of the session. “We passed a balanced budget that didn’t contain a single tax increase and we eliminated $1.2 billion in spending. As Assistant Majority Leader, I helped usher through reforms that Tennesseans have been seeking for years. For too long, Democrats stood idly by and maintained the status quo. That is a failure of leadership on their part and that is inexcusable,” continued the Bradley County conservative. “I’m proud to say we will continue working proactively to find ways to enhance our State and make it more attractive for top companies.”

He concluded, “Our number one concern this year was creating a positive environment for the private sector to produce jobs in Tennessee. That will continue to be our priority next year. Tennesseans can rest assured that our Majority will not take our eye off the ball when it comes to making Tennessee a better place to live, work, and raise a family.”