(NASHVILLE) — During the 2017 legislative session, State Representative Gerald McCormick (R-Chattanooga) and fellow House Business and Utilities Committee members — led by Chairman Pat Marsh (R-Shelbyville) — effectively supported Tennessee’s job growth and upheld the consumer rights of citizens across the state. Committee members advanced a total of 34 legislative initiatives in 2017; thirty were signed into law by Tennessee Governor Bill 
Haslam.
These initiatives spurred community development, reduced government regulations and red tape, improved consumer safety and choice and protected Tennesseans against fraud. Some of the legislation includes:
- House Bill 529: Expands access to reliable broadband internet services across the state, especially in rural communities.
- House Bill 119: Clarifies previously established guidelines for utility management review boards.
- House Bill 300: Streamlines professional licensing requirements for businesses and professionals.
- House Bill 326: Prevents businesses from engaging in fraud or other unethical practices in order to gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
- House Bill 456: Protects personal property rights of Tennessee veterans.
- House Bill 979: Encourages new business opportunities for licensed professionals.
- House Bill 1050: Increases penalties for fraud cases involving telephone identity theft.
“The men and women who serve on the House Business and Utilities Committee have worked tirelessly throughout 2017 in order to ensure that our consumers and businesses are promoted and protected,” said Chairman Marsh. “As I reflect on our work, I know we supported community development, reduced government regulations, and red tape, and also advocated on behalf of our local businesses. I look forward to continuing our state’s economic growth and momentum next year.”
Additionally, the efforts of the committee did not go unnoticed by House leadership, especially Speaker Beth Harwell (R-Nashville).
“I want to personally thank the hardworking members of the House Business and Utilities Committee for serving as a voice for Tennessee businesses and consumers,” said Speaker Harwell. “Their efforts during the 2017 legislative session will have a tremendous impact on our state now and in the years to come.”
Gerald McCormick is the Chairman of the House Finance, Ways & Means Subcommittee and serves on the House Business & Utilities Committee, House Finance, Ways & Means Committee, House Rules Committee, and the House Calendar & Rules Committee. He is also a member of the House Finance, Ways & Means Study Subcommittee. McCormick lives in Chattanooga and represents House District 26, which includes part of Hamilton County. He can be reached by email at Rep.Gerald.McCormick@capitol.tn.gov or by calling (615) 741-2548.
