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U.S. Rep. John Rose, a Member of the House Committee on Financial Services, introduced the Bank Privacy Reform Act to stop the government from warrantless surveillance of the American people. Rep. Rose’s bill would reform the Bank Secrecy Act of 1970 by repealing requirements for financial institutions to report customers’ financial information, including transaction history, to government agencies without a warrant.

“Currently, the Bank Secrecy Act deputizes banks and allows for the warrantless surveillance of the American people,” said Rep. Rose. “The right to privacy is one of the hallmarks of a free country. The Fourth Amendment protects people from unreasonable searches and seizures. My bill, the Bank Privacy Reform Act, reaffirms those protections and would prevent the government from spying on consumers’ transaction history without first obtaining a warrant.”

This bill keeps intact sections of the Bank Secrecy Act that require financial institutions to maintain customer records but repeals those that require them to report to government agencies without a showing of probable cause. FDIC surveys found that approximately one-third of the unbanked, people not served by a bank or similar financial institution, have chosen to stay out of the banking system because they do not want to provide their personal financial information.

According to a national survey done by the CATO Institute, 79% say it’s unreasonable for banks to share personal records and bank transactions with the federal government, and 83% say the government should obtain a warrant to access your financial records. Additionally, credit card companies are now flagging legal purchases made at gun stores, and the Biden Administration faced immense public backlash for their proposal to monitor all financial accounts like Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, etc. with more than $600 in transactions.

Read the full text of the bill here.

In observance of National Fire Prevention Week Oct. 9 – 15, 2022 the Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Division of Forestry reminds citizens that our state is heading into fall fire season. Dry conditions and trees that shed their leaves heighten fire danger and a debris burn permit is required for leaf and brush piles beginning Oct. 15.

“Careless debris burning is a primary cause of wildland fires every year in Tennessee,” State Forester David Arnold said. “Burning leaf and brush piles can be an effective tool to remove collected debris from your yard but the tool needs to be used safely with cooperative weather and under constant supervision. Practice safe debris burning and remember that state permits are required starting this Saturday in areas where local governments do not have established outdoor burning ordinances.”

Debris Burn Permits for leaf and brush piles are available at no charge via the MyTN mobile app or online at www.BurnSafeTN.org. Apply the same day you plan to burn. Online permits can be obtained daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Central Time for any size leaf and brush burn pile. Each pile should be completely extinguished by the permit expiration.

For larger broadcast burning, such as forestry, agricultural, and land clearing, call the Division of Forestry burn permit phone number at 877-350-BURN (2876) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. This phone line will open Friday, Oct. 14. Callers may experience lengthy wait times when call volume is high.

Permits are issued only when conditions are conducive to safe burning. If you live inside city limits, check with your municipality for additional restrictions before you burn.

A list of materials that are not allowed to be burned can be found from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation at www.tn.gov/environment/program-areas/apc-air-pollution-control-home/apc/open-burning.html. Call 1-888-891-TDEC to report illegal burning.

Burning without a permit is a class C misdemeanor and punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine. Individuals are legally required to stay with their fire until extinguished.

The following tips should be followed when it is safe to conduct a debris burn:

• Check with local authorities to make sure there are no local restrictions on burning currently in place, especially in cities and towns that have their own burning permit system.
• GET A PERMIT. A permit is required from the Tennessee Division of Forestry between October 15 to May 15 where local restrictions do not supersede.
• Notify your local fire department and neighbors to let them know your plans to burn.
• Do not burn on windy days.
• Stay abreast of changing weather conditions.
• Establish wide control lines down to bare mineral soil at least five feet wide around burn piles.
• Keep fire containment equipment on hand during the fire (e.g. rake, shovel, water).
• Stay with the fire until it is completely out.

Visit www.BurnSafeTN.org for additional tips to burn safely and to protect your community.

Tennessee fell to the 9th least expensive market in the nation

Pump prices across Tennessee saw significant increases over last week, jumping 21 cents, on average, across the state. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $3.39 which is 11 cents more expensive than one month ago and nearly 39 cents more than one year ago.  

“Last week, oil and gasoline futures were sent back to 5-week highs after OPEC and its allies announced plans to cut oil production next month by 2 million barrels per day, ” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “The U.S. price of oil also rose about 17% last week. Since oil is a key ingredient in gasoline, this raises the cost of producing, buying and selling the fuel. Therefore, it’s very likely that Tennesseans will see additional fluctuations at the pump over the course of this week.”

Quick Facts

• 93% of Tennessee gas stations have prices below $3.50
• The lowest 10% of pump prices are $3.21 for regular unleaded 
• The highest 10% of pump prices are $3.70  for regular unleaded
• Tennessee is the 9th least expensive market in the nation

National Gas Prices

OPEC+ recent announcement that the group of oil-producing nations would slash output by 2 million barrels per day led to the price of oil creeping above $90 a barrel for the first time in several weeks. A higher cost for oil usually means more expensive gasoline. Meanwhile, domestic demand increased as more drivers fueled up last week. The national average pump price for a gallon of gas rose 12 cents over the past week to hit $3.91.

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gas demand increased nationally from 8.83 million b/d to 9.47 million b/d last week. Total domestic gasoline stocks decreased significantly by 4.7 million bbl to 207.5 million bbl. High gasoline demand, amid tight supply, has led to higher pump prices nationwide.

Today’s national average of $3.91 is 19 cents higher than a month ago and 65 cents more than a year ago.

National Oil Market Dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session, WTI increased by $4.19 to settle at $92.64. Crude prices increased last week after OPEC and its allies including Russia, known as OPEC+, announced intentions to cut crude production by 2 million b/d next month. Although crude prices have surged, the pricing impact may be short-lived as demand concerns continue to weigh on the market. For this week, crude prices could reverse course if the market continues to see indicators of weakening demand due to ongoing COVID-19 lockdowns in China and a slowdown in the economy as fears of recession grow, which could see crude prices decline due to falling demand. Additionally, EIA’s latest weekly report showed that total domestic crude inventories declined by 1.4 million bbl to 429.2 million bbl.

Drivers can find current gas prices along their route using the AAA TripTik Travel planner.

Tennessee Regional Prices 

• Most expensive metro markets – Jackson ($3.45), Memphis ($3.45), Nashville ($3.42)
• Least expensive metro markets – Johnson City ($3.28), Kingsport-Bristol ($3.31), Chattanooga ($3.35) 

To cast a ballot in the November 8th State and Federal General Election, Tennesseans must register to vote by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 11. “I encourage all Tennesseans to register to vote or make sure their registration is up-to-date before the registration deadline,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. “To make your voice heard on Election Day, you must be registered to vote. Fortunately, it has never been easier for Tennesseans to register to vote or update their registration.” Registering to vote, updating or checking your registration status is fast, easy and secure with the Secretary of State’s online voter registration system, GoVoteTN.gov. Using a computer, phone or tablet, any U.S. citizen with a driver’s license or a photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security can register in minutes at GoVoteTN.gov. Each submission is checked against the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s database. Voters can also download a paper voter registration application at GoVoteTN.gov. Completed paper voter registration applications must be mailed to your local county election commission office or submitted in person. Mailed voter registrations must be postmarked by Oct. 11. Election Day registration is not available in Tennessee. Early voting for the Nov. 8 State and Federal General Election starts Wednesday, Oct. 19, and runs Monday to Saturday until Thursday, Nov. 3. The deadline to request an absentee by-mail ballot is Tuesday, Nov. 1. The Secretary of State and county election commissions are Tennessee’s trusted sources for accurate election information. For trusted election information, follow the Secretary of State’s social media channels Twitter: @SecTreHargett, Facebook: Tennessee Secretary of State and Instagram: @tnsecofstate. For more information about registering to vote in Tennessee, go to GoVoteTN.gov or call the Division of Elections toll-free at 1-877-850-4959.

The Tennessee State Veterinarian is lifting statewide poultry restrictions following the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) last month in a backyard flock in Obion County, Tenn.

HPAI was confirmed in a backyard flock of poultry in Obion County on Sept. 15. The disease is known to be deadly for domesticated fowl. Although the affected site remains under quarantine, movement permits are no longer required for poultry moving into or out of the control zone of 10 km (6.2 miles) surrounding the site. Poultry shows, exhibitions, and sales can now also resume statewide. However, poultry owners are reminded to maintain strong biosecurity procedures, remain vigilant, and report signs of illness in their birds.

“The coordinated response to stop the spread of HPAI in this area worked, but we can’t let our guard down,” Tennessee State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Beaty said. “We are grateful to our animal health technicians, the poultry industry, backyard flock owners, and our partners for working together to protect our state’s birds. Still, HPAI is highly transmissible and we strongly encourage poultry owners to continue doing all they can to ensure good health in their flocks.”

Although HPAI does not pose a food safety risk, no infected poultry are ever allowed to enter the food supply. Poultry and eggs are safe to eat when handled and cooked properly. The risk of human infection with avian influenza during poultry outbreaks is very low. In fact, no transmission to humans was reported during the outbreak that affected commercial poultry farms in Tennessee in 2017.

Owners of backyard and commercial poultry flocks are encouraged to:

• Closely observe domesticated birds.
• Report a sudden increase in the number of sick birds or bird deaths to the Tennessee State Veterinarian’s office at 615- 837-5120 and/or USDA at 1-866-536-7593.
• Prevent contact with wild birds.
• Practice good biosecurity with your poultry. More information can be found online at healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov/.
• Enroll in the National Poultry Improvement Plan (www.poultryimprovement.org), the Secure Broiler Supply Plan (www.securebroilersupply.com), and the Secure Egg Supply Plan (www.secureeggsupply.com) as appropriate for your operation.

Information about Tennessee’s response to avian influenza and resources can be found online at www.tn.gov/agriculture/businesses/animals/animal-health/avian-influenza.html.

The Secretary of State’s Honor Vote Program allows Tennesseans to dedicate their vote Nov. 8 State and Federal General Election to a veteran or active-duty member of the U.S. military. “We have the right to select our leaders through free elections thanks to the brave men and women who have served our country in the armed forces,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. “The Honor Vote program is a small way that we can show our appreciation for the soldiers who fought for our rights and serve our county to protect them.” The Honor Vote program is free and open to any registered voter in Tennessee. Voters can choose to dedicate their vote to anyone currently serving in or a veteran of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard or Tennessee National Guard. Honor Vote participants will receive an information guide and an official 2022 Honor Vote button that they can wear while casting their ballot. All Honor Vote dedications are posted on the official Tennessee Honor Vote List on GoVoteTN.gov and the Honor Vote Twitter account @tnhonorvote. Participants are encouraged to share their dedication on their social media accounts using the hashtags #TNHonorVote and #GoVoteTN. For more information or to register your vote dedication, visit GoVoteTN.gov/honor.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Secretary of State Tre Hargett reminds Tennesseans about Safe at Home, the free statewide address confidentiality program for anyone who has experienced domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking or any sexual offense. “Right now, nearly 550 Safe at Home participants across the state are protecting themselves from becoming victims again by protecting their address,” said Secretary Hargett. “I encourage Tennesseans of any age or gender who’ve been victims of domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, or any sexual offense to take advantage of this free program.” Safe at Home prevents abusers from locating their victims through public records by providing approved applicants a substitute address that may be used for legal purposes, including voter registration and government services such as a driver’s license and access to assistance programs. Under current Tennessee law, most state and local government records are available for public review. These public records, which include home addresses and other identifying information, can make it easy for abusers to track and find their victims. Safe at Home participants are issued a substitute address they can use anytime they interact with state and local government or anyone who could potentially make their home address part of the public record. This substitute address can be used by anyone in the household, including children, elderly parents and new spouses. “I’ve grown to appreciate the Safe at Home program simply because it keeps my residential address confidential,” said Safe at Home program participant Danette Mahabeer. “I don’t have to worry about my mail anymore. They are sorted and sent to me in a timely fashion. I just love the fact that the people behind the scenes really care about keeping me safe.” The first step to enrolling in the Safe at Home program is to complete an application with a partnering agency in your community. Safe at Home has partner agencies serving all 95 counties in Tennessee. Each partner agency has certified application assistants to guide participants through enrollment. Safe at Home partner agencies include state and local agencies and nonprofit organizations that provide counseling and shelter services to victims of domestic abuse and other crimes. A list of partnering agencies is available at SafeAtHomeTN.com. For more information about the Safe at Home program, participant eligibility or becoming a partner agency, visit SafeAtHomeTN.com or call 615-253-3043.

Crews from Middle Tennessee Electric (MTE) will leave Thursday morning for Ridgeland, South Carolina, to assist Palmetto Electric Cooperative with power restoration in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. Palmetto Electric serves over 75,000 members in Beaufort, Hampton and Jasper counties along the southern coast of South Carolina.   Hurricane Ian made landfall along the southwest Florida coastline at Punta Gorda, Florida, near Port Charlotte on Wednesday as a Category 4 storm. On its current track, it will be in the Palmetto Electric service territory area on Friday. With the anticipation of significant power outages due to high wind and potential tornados, MTE crews will be arriving ahead of the storm, so they are ready to aid in the restoration process immediately.    “A special thanks to these men and all the line workers who leave home and work long hours in dangerous conditions and inclement weather to restore power to those in need,” said Chris Jones, MTE president and CEO. “As a cooperative, Middle Tennessee Electric abides by the Seven Cooperative Principles; one of which calls for cooperation between cooperatives. This means that cooperatives help each other, particularly when faced with serious storm damage and destruction. MTE was the beneficiary of this type of help following the tornado in Wilson County in 2020, and we’re always ready to aid another cooperative in its time of need.” MTE crews will assist this area until all needs are met following the impact of the hurricane.

The Tennessee Department of Health is recognizing Child Health Month throughout October. This annual recognition celebrates and raises awareness about programs devoted to the health of Tennessee’s children, our most important resource.

‘’As a parent and pediatrician I know the importance of keeping children healthy and safe,’’ Said Assistant Commissioner for the Department of Health and Director of the Division of Family Health and Wellness Tobi Amosun, MD, FAAP. ‘’From immunizations to nutrition tips, local health departments offer opportunities for parents and caregivers to make sure children receive the important care they need and deserve.’’

Tennesseans have faced many challenges in the last two years and TDH is excited to celebrate this year’s Child Health Month theme, New Beginnings. Together with our local and state partners TDH is ensuring parents, caregivers, teachers, and community members are equipped with the tools they need to promote healthy practices to Tennessee’s children.

TDH will promote a number of focus areas during Child Health Month to ensure children and families receive valuable information for their overall health :

•             Tobacco and Substance Abuse Prevention

•             Promoting Healthy Eating Habits and Healthy Drinks

•             Weekly Child Health Topic Lunch and Learns

•             Social and Emotional Health

•             Children with Special Health Care Needs

•             Preventing Childhood Trauma

Join TDH in celebrating Child Health Month! Visit tn.gov/health/CHM2022 to find activities and events in your community.