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Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) addresses the state Senate, Jan. 9, 2024

The Tennessee General Assembly opened business for 2024 on Tuesday in Nashville, marking the start of several months of meetings at which lawmakers are expected to debate legislation related to education, taxes and abortion, among other issues.

The state Senate resumed work Tuesday without its leader, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally (R-Oak Ridge), who is missing the first few weeks of session as he recovers from ankle surgery. Sen. Ferrell Haile (R-Gallatin), the speaker pro tempore, presided over Tuesday's brief floor session. Senators took time to praise Sen. Art Swann (R-Maryville), who on Tuesday announced his planned retirement.

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Rep. Justin Pearson (D-Memphis) outside the House chamber, Jan. 9, 2024
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House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville), Jan. 9, 2024

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