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As long as government keeps picking winners, there are bound to be losers. Hopefully, though, as a result of our work, there will be fewer losers when we’re done. READ MORE

To offer protection to all Tennessee residents, state lawmakers should look at the 46 other states that have implemented some sort of property tax cap and give Tennesseans similar protections. READ MORE

In 2012, legislators passed a bill to phase out the death tax over four years. Roger not only gets to save his farm and pass it on to his loved ones, but he saved thousands of other farms just like his from facing the same fate. READ MORE

As citizens, we can mobilize quickly, efficiently, and in heartfelt ways no federal government agency ever could. READ MORE

Today, we released our next installment of the Beacon Poll, a statewide survey of 1,200 registered Tennessee voters comprised of questions about political races, policy issues, and more. Former President Donald Trump leads Vice President Kamala Harris by 21 points in the first Beacon Poll since Harris became the Democratic nominee for president. While Trump still maintains a solid lead,... READ MORE

Amanda's story proves that states can put pressure on the federal government to act, and how just a few individuals like Amanda can have an outsized national impact. READ MORE

Imagine losing your job because an unelected board of government bureaucrats—or even worse, a board of your competitors with the force of government power—suddenly declared it illegal. READ MORE

Operations like Quail Run Farms benefit Tennessee’s economy and help support the income of farms and rural communities.  READ MORE

On November 8, 2022, Tennessee became just the tenth state to make right-to-work a constitutional right when 1.14 million Tennesseans, or seventy percent of voters, cast their ballots in favor of Amendment 1. READ MORE

Today, we released our next installment of the Beacon Poll, a statewide survey of 1,200 registered Tennessee voters comprised of questions about political races, policy issues, and more. In a surprising turn of events, Donald Trump’s recent conviction of 34 felony charges for falsifying documents in New York has actually helped the former president in Tennessee. The guilty verdict... READ MORE

Thanks to the ruling, cities must now fund their own public works projects. READ MORE

Today’s Supreme Court decision overturns Chevron and returns the task of interpreting laws to the courts. That’s a great thing for liberty. READ MORE

Regulators should match their rules with reality and in the case of Net Neutrality, that’s clearly not happening.  READ MORE

With dozens of states providing choice programs and a growing number providing the same options to all students, Tennessee policymakers must make a choice. READ MORE

Many Tennesseans benefitted from fresh starts in education and enterprise. Many more would also benefit if the government stopped discriminating against them. READ MORE

Due to their grassroots activism, Lij and Pat convinced the city council to soften the home business ban. READ MORE

We’re pleased that the legislature made strides to address many of Tennesseans’ biggest challenges this session. And for those they failed to advance like property tax caps and school choice, we will continue to make them top priorities on behalf of Tennesseans.  READ MORE

For the opponents, this was about protecting their bottom line. For hair braiders, this was about culture. It was about opportunity. It was about freedom. READ MORE

Tennessee policymakers should keep note of the trends at vocational schools and see the value of these programs, not simply for earnings and little to no debt for graduates, but for the benefits to the state as a whole. READ MORE

According to a Beacon poll released this week, the rising cost of housing is among the most significant barriers that Tennesseans face on the path to financial stability and growth. The Supreme Court’s decision this morning in Sheetz v. El Dorado County will help. READ MORE

Today, we released our fourth quarterly Beacon Poll, a statewide survey of 1,197 registered Tennessee voters comprised of questions about political races, policy issues, and more. READ MORE

Parents across Tennessee are able to exercise school choice, but only if they have the financial means to do so. That could all change with the proposed Education Freedom Scholarship program. READ MORE

All of us enjoy the freedom to choose when we marry a spouse, buy a car, or simply purchase a cup of coffee. Why shouldn’t parents have the freedom to choose the education they believe best suits their own children? READ MORE

As a state experiencing significant in-migration, it's crucial to welcome new additions to our workforce without imposing unnecessary barriers through licensing requirements. READ MORE

On the final day of the 2016 legislative session, lawmakers voted to repeal the Hall Tax. Jon and Linda remain engaged in Beacon’s work to this day. Thanks to their willingness to speak out about their challenges with the Hall Tax, they helped return more than $300 million a year to taxpayers and make Tennessee truly income tax-free for the first time in nearly a century. READ MORE

Just as Noah Webster paved the way for a new language, Tennessee lawmakers today have the opportunity to make our state a hub for new jobs, investment, and economic growth. READ MORE

CON reform will directly benefit Asher and other Tennesseans like her who suffer from a lack of quality healthcare options. It’s a powerful example of a mother refusing to give up the fight for what’s right. READ MORE

Typically, proposed laws at the local level rarely get any attention, let alone make national news. But here in Tennessee, we’re anything but typical. Recently, several zoning reform proposals were introduced in Nashville’s Metro Council garnering considerable local and even some national media attention. Some of these proposed policies include eliminating the requirement that lots... READ MORE

Education “is meant for service. It’s not a political thing. We are here to serve the children.” READ MORE

During his State of the State address earlier this week, Governor Bill Lee outlined his proposed program to offer every Tennessee family a voice in their child’s education. The program, dubbed Education Freedom Scholarships, would provide around $7,000 for a student to attend a school of their choice as well as pay for other approved... READ MORE

Roxanne will continue to stand up for her daughter and the thousands of others being helped by educational choice. READ MORE

January 21 - 27 is National School Choice Week (NSCW), the annual celebration of education opportunity in the country, and this NSCW has a lot to celebrate. READ MORE

Cheers to 20 years fighting for Tennesseans’ liberty. And the best part of it all? This is only just the beginning.  READ MORE

Today, we released our third quarterly Beacon Poll, a statewide poll of 1,302 registered Tennessee voters comprised of questions about political races, policy issues, and more. READ MORE

Beacon has long advocated for expanding parental choice, and we are grateful the governor is leading the charge to make it happen in 2024. READ MORE

Today, we released our second quarterly Beacon Poll, a statewide poll of 1,181 registered Tennessee voters comprised of questions about political races, policy issues, sports questions and more. In one of the country’s most watched 2024 Senate races, the poll results find incumbent Senator Marsha Blackburn with leads over her two potential Democratic rivals, Gloria Johnson and... READ MORE

The only person that should have access and control over your money, is you. Not the federal government. READ MORE

Of the 15 NFL stadiums that have synthetic turf, all but three received taxpayer money to help build the stadium. READ MORE

Local and state policymakers should be aware of the coming calls to fund public education more at the local and state level. READ MORE

Today, the Beacon Center filed a First Amendment lawsuit against the state of Tennessee. Beacon is representing Will McLemore and other online auctioneers in a challenge to a Tennessee law that requires online auctioneers to be licensed. This law threatens the livelihoods of Will, his employees, and other online auctioneers across the state, many of... READ MORE

It was America’s tech industry that was the most vocal in calling for a pause in AI innovation. READ MORE

Mark and Taylor’s big takeaways on this episode of Decaf: – If you think Nashville property tax rates are bad, it could be worse (and it is in another big city in Tennessee). – If you are going to make a career of trying to take down school choice, maybe don’t send your kids to... READ MORE

✅ Knoxville residents are making moves toward more affordable housing. ✅ Should politicians have age limits? ✅ SEC teams were not looking great in week 1 of college football… ✅ Taylor has some controversial pizza-topping opinions. Get it all this week on Decaf! READ MORE

Giving people back their money puts it in the productive private sector of the economy where it can be invested, spent, or used more efficiently.  READ MORE

Only time will tell what the true impact of the Fed's inflation-reducing policies will be on the American economy. READ MORE

More transparent and accessible government data will go a long way in holding the government accountable and making Tennessee a thriving place for innovation, entrepreneurship, and public participation moving forward. READ MORE

Corporate welfare is costing Tennesseans and Tennessee businesses. READ MORE

Tennesseans with student loans should begin preparing to make monthly payments. Furthermore, if those borrowers are unable to make payments, all Tennesseans should know that taxpayers could eventually face that burden.  READ MORE

This morning the Beacon Center released our first non-partisan statewide poll which will be the first poll to be released quarterly throughout the state. The focus of this poll was to gain insight into what Tennesseans truly think about what’s going on in the state, and in the country. The poll examined nationally relevant issues... READ MORE

There is no consistent statewide survey that accurately assesses where Tennesseans stand on matters impacting their lives on an ongoing basis. Until now.  READ MORE

  Today, Beacon released the Beacon Poll, the first of many quarterly surveys asking Tennessee voters how they feel about a variety of issues. Groups and politicians conduct polls all the time, giving us a glimpse into voters’ perspectives on elections and pressing issues. But there is no consistent statewide survey that accurately assesses where Tennesseans... READ MORE

This year's business tax reform is nothing to sneeze at! READ MORE

If you want to solve the bread shortage, you have to bake more bread. READ MORE

Through thoughtful zoning reforms that increase the ability for more affordable home ownership and the supply of homes, Tennessee can let the individual win over restrictive local controls on private property. READ MORE

Wen Fa will lead the expansion of Beacon’s litigation efforts to protect Tennesseans’ freedoms from government overreach. READ MORE

Today, the Beacon Center won an appeal in the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals which will protect property rights in Nashville. The Court ruled that the city of Nashville cannot avoid constitutional protections for private property simply by taking individuals’ property through legislative action. This was an enormous win for our plaintiffs and a reminder... READ MORE

Here is a look at the priorities advanced by our advocacy partner Beacon Impact that passed this year. READ MORE

Up until recently, charter schools received bipartisan support for years, from past presidents and governors to local officials. Charter schools should be praised, not shunned, because they aren’t controlled by a bureaucratic district. READ MORE

Political ballots aren’t the only votes Tennesseans cast that have a lasting impact.  READ MORE

If Tennessee is going to remain the best state to do business in, it’s time for the next big tax cut. READ MORE

Predicting how the Supreme Court will rule is usually a fool’s errand. But if you’re interested in animal welfare or really love bacon (or both!), you’re interested in the Dormant Commerce Clause. READ MORE

This year is an opportunity to put the pedal to the metal and continue our trend of regulatory reform. READ MORE

Any expansion of ESAs is an immense benefit to those students who will receive new education options. READ MORE

This arbitrary government restriction should at least be adjusted for today’s prices and indexed as inflation continues to soar.  READ MORE

Pending ordinance doctrine flies in the face of our constitutional form of government. READ MORE

The Court shouldn’t allow bad facts to make bad law. READ MORE

It's time to go all in on funding students over systems and stop letting Tennessee be surpassed by other conservative legislatures around the nation when it comes to education. READ MORE

We should not let new special interests funded by old special interests weaken our charter school options by putting what’s best for adults more interested in money before children in need of quality education. READ MORE

By expanding educational choice programs to all Tennessee students, the Volunteer state can begin to improve learning and be a leader in education freedom. READ MORE

Tennessee business owners are problem solvers and innovators, and it was an honor to work with a few of them to create this roadmap for the state. READ MORE

Today, the Beacon Center released its most famous annual publication, the Pork Report. As always the report shed light on hundreds of millions of dollars of wasteful spending in Tennessee. Examples in this year’s report range from the state’s no-bid contract for contact tracing given to a company with no previous experience to the unused homeless pods the city of... READ MORE

As we close out the year, it’s worth reflecting on what we’ve accomplished to make Tennessee the envy of every other state.  READ MORE

This holiday season, if you feel called to give back, I challenge you to find an organization like RAM, ECHO, or Main Street Health. READ MORE

Simply put, this is big government getting in the way of worker freedom and the opportunities that innovations provide to us all. READ MORE

Even if someone believes single-family zoning should be the ideal today, Gray makes a compelling case for how zoning has robbed America of untold economic prosperity. READ MORE

At a time when the nation is as polarized as it has been politically, this was a rare bipartisan show of force in favor of protecting worker freedom in our state.  READ MORE

This data gives a clear choice for prospective students, university leadership, and state lawmakers. For prospective students, they can now see what they can reasonably expect to earn—and pay—for a degree. READ MORE

"I was fortunate enough to be able to take advantage of Beacon's internship program when it arose because I didn’t need government permission to gain experience." READ MORE

Teachers need to be asking the district hard questions, especially when hundreds of millions of dollars in relief funds are still unspent while teachers themselves are reaching into their own pockets for supplies. READ MORE

Despite having just a couple of weeks to launch the ESA program before the start of the school year, nearly 2,200 families and 84 schools expressed interest in participating this fall. READ MORE

For parents who see their child struggle academically and teachers who have to use their own money for school supplies, how these districts have budgeted ESSER funds should cause serious concern. READ MORE

Weaponizing a city department to punish residents should be egregious in anyone's eyes. READ MORE

Right-to-work is under attack, with national politicians like President Biden calling for state right-to-work protections to be banned. READ MORE

Tennessee must continue to take action to ensure that every citizen can access and receive the medical care that they deserve by continuing to reform and repeal CON laws. READ MORE

Tennessee has another tax-free holiday coming up this weekend, followed by a month-long sales tax holiday on groceries in August. In addition to the traditional annual sales tax holiday to coincide with the start of school, Gov. Lee and the legislature chose to return this year’s surplus revenue to taxpayers by also suspending the grocery... READ MORE

Metro Council members and state legislators need to work together to combat national inflation by aligning policy that makes it easier for Nashvillians to live in the city…and know their trash will be picked up on time.  READ MORE

Tennessee is good at topping lists. Unfortunately, Tennessee recently ranked as one of the top states where inflation is being felt the most.  READ MORE

If we are serious about getting Tennesseeans back to work, and in the trades that align with their experience and qualifications, occupational licensing reform is a clear path forward.  READ MORE

But come to find out, “voting with your feet” doesn’t just apply to the state level, but to the local level as well. READ MORE

What happened in the capitol this session? READ MORE

We applaud Gov. Lee for championing funding students and not systems. READ MORE

There is an unbelievable opportunity for Tennessee to grow and become a leader in telehealth policy. READ MORE

It’s not hard to see why choice opportunities would excite parents. READ MORE

My challenge to those who are opposed to school choice is to speak with students and families to learn their perspectives. READ MORE

Education funding is the largest single line item in the state budget, and TISA would increase that investment while boosting transparency, accountability, and flexibility. READ MORE

There are many reasons government should stay out of the stadium business, but here are just five reasons. READ MORE

In the 20th century, America was the factory of the world. Today, you could argue that our number one export is ideas and innovation. It’s sad to see then so much effort by some to mess up this not-so-secret formula. READ MORE

By pioneering such a new business structure, Tennessee can be a hub for new jobs, investment, and economic growth in our state. READ MORE

Tennessee should be proud of the accomplishments made by these innovative and non-traditional public schools. READ MORE

Home businesses are as American as apple pie. It’s time we treated them that way. READ MORE

As the Middle Tennessee area continues to grow, local leaders and policymakers should continue to look for new and innovative policies and technologies to help our community manage growth and improve quality of life. READ MORE

Entering the third year of the pandemic, one would hope public schools would have learned to adjust to the new normal and remain open for in-person learning. After all, schools received billions of dollars from the federal government to do just that. Even President Biden said, “I believe schools should remain open. They have what... READ MORE

State policymakers can make Tennessee an even more attractive destination for entrepreneurship, innovation, investment, and the associated job creation.  READ MORE

Robust parental choice will finally put parents in the driver’s seat READ MORE

While there are many causes and influences on inflation, one clear contributing factor is massive government spending. READ MORE

The best way to give parents a seat at the table and a say in how and what their kids are being taught is through parental choice, letting them take their kids out of their schools and take the money with them. READ MORE

If we don’t stand up against this egregious overreach, it will set a dangerous precedent. READ MORE

With such a monumental amount of tax dollars going to K-12 education, it is a shame that Tennesseans have been left in the dark for so long as to how education is actually funded. READ MORE

With the federal government continuing to fail to create a regulatory sandbox and joining the nearly 60 countries that have already done so, the states have stepped up. READ MORE

The ability for families to have the resources they need to give their children the best education possible is why funding students over systems is so important. READ MORE

Spending time and energy to pass unconstitutional or merely controversial anti-censorship bills that eventually get thrown out by some judge wastes precious political momentum. READ MORE

If we can utilize a regulatory sandbox to fast-track the development and introduction of a vaccine for global distribution and overwhelmingly protect public health and safety, Tennessee should create its own sandbox to help spur the innovations that will improve our everyday lives. READ MORE

Recent actions show that Tennesseans still believe in the workplace freedom and individual liberty that right-to-work embodies. READ MORE

Democrats in D.C. should stop being intellectually dishonest about the shell game they are playing with infrastructure spending. READ MORE

We are pleased to announce a new addition to the Beacon Center team. Jason Coleman joined us recently as General Counsel & Director of Legal Affairs. “I have been a fan of Beacon for as long as I’ve known about them,” Jason said. “I’m very passionate about economic freedom and the right to earn a... READ MORE

If you have to suspend a bad regulation during an emergency, why on earth does that regulation need to exist in good times?  READ MORE

Emil Ekvardt from Great.com interviewed Mark Cunningham as part of their 'Great.com Talks With...' podcast. READ MORE

Tennesseans should continue to look to innovate in the educational space. READ MORE

Now that the dust has settled, it is clear what the big takeaways of the 2021 legislative session are. READ MORE

Today, the House of Representatives joined the Senate in approving the Right to Work constitutional amendment by the required two-thirds majority. READ MORE

Any claims of a “free ride” are by a union’s choice to exercise a monopoly and take away an employee’s right to represent themself. It is not a result of right-to-work.  READ MORE

Now is the time to open up the market and give Tennessee patients and providers the options they deserve.  READ MORE

This is one of the most significant board-based innovation freedom developments in Tennessee. READ MORE

Under no circumstances should the federal government be able to usurp the decisions of our governor and state lawmakers when it comes to the taxes it chooses—or chooses not—to impose. READ MORE

The multi-year phaseout of the Hall Tax was completed at the end of 2020 and with its full repeal, Tennessee became the nation’s eighth true no-income-tax state. READ MORE

By preventing onerous, inconsistent, and often slapdash regulation from city to city or county to county, Tennessee can be a leader in innovation freedom. READ MORE

As a sunny spring emerges, so too should the restoration of our freedoms after a year-long period of darkness.  READ MORE

Today, the Beacon Center announced that Vice President of Legal Affairs Braden Boucek will be leaving his full-time role at Beacon. He will remain on as a senior fellow for Beacon beginning April 1. Beacon CEO Justin Owen said, “While we are sad to lose his incredible talents in a full-time capacity, we are proud... READ MORE

For the government, nothing is more fundamental than strong checks and balances. READ MORE

This morning the Tennessee Supreme Court accepted the appeal to hear the Education Savings Account (ESA) case. Beacon appealed the ruling of lower courts that the ESA program violates the state’s home rule provision. Beacon Vice President of Legal Affairs Braden Boucek stated, “Not only is the ESA program constitutional, but it is also necessary... READ MORE

A solution that would help all Tennessee students would be to expand educational choice. READ MORE

By being smart on policy and engaged with our communities, we can make sure Tennessee’s public assistance programs are efficient and effective for those who need them most.  READ MORE

Heading into 2021, let's hope Metro leadership can make a New Year's resolution to see that every Nashvillian is essential. READ MORE

Let’s hope the state’s new year resolution for 2021 was more responsible spending of our money.  READ MORE

Other than by the local government bureaucrats whose coffers it filled, the Hall Tax will not be missed. READ MORE

Tennessee lawmakers should repeal all CONs, or at the least, reform the process for those that are not repealed. READ MORE

Happy retirement, Mr. Comptroller! You earned it. READ MORE

If Tennessee is going to lead the nation in innovation, state legislators should pursue the broadest sandbox law in the nation. READ MORE

Anything worth doing takes risk. READ MORE

Tennessee should make it easier for people like Evelyn to transfer licenses here from other states by recognizing out of state licenses like Arizona, Pennsylvania and others have done. READ MORE

Treating people like they are a mass of morons who should just shut up and listen to their masters who know best is not going to make the virus go away READ MORE

Don’t California My Tennessee. READ MORE

While it’s questionable whether Nashville can even claim the “It City” title anymore, without real change, it may soon all come crashing down. READ MORE

The Beacon Center’s hope is that citizens and policymakers will continue to reference and utilize the City Freedom Index to enact positive change. READ MORE

For the third part of Beacon’s series of posts to help you get to know our board members, we have an interview with Pat Shepherd, a member of Beacon's board and Managing Partner at Avondale Partners READ MORE

Bring down Google or Facebook, and small businesses’ ability to get their product in front of eyeballs will plummet. READ MORE

Be afraid of short term rentals, be very afraid, says our government. Just pay no mind to this debt crisis up the other sleeve. READ MORE

To further deter Nashville residents from purchasing Halloween candy, Cooper unveiled plans to increase the sales tax by 32% on all candy sold in the city.  READ MORE

There are many measures the community must take to ensure the structural integrity of Nashville’s future, but taxpayers feel like they got the short end of the stick. READ MORE

People move from other areas of the country to Tennessee for many reasons: no state income tax, relatively low property taxes, and business-friendly policies. One of those policies that often does not get the recognition it deserves is the Right to Work: a policy that allows workers to choose whether or not they join a... READ MORE

At a time when every Nashvillian has been forced to sacrifice more for the city, so too should those who work for us. READ MORE

We need to reform CON laws in Tennessee.  READ MORE

Funding the child, instead of institutions, will give families the ability to find the right educational choice for their children. READ MORE

This month, Beacon will celebrate the 100th Anniversary of this momentous occasion. READ MORE

Justice, at long last! READ MORE

Lawmakers must consider COVID-19 liability reform if our economy is going to recover in a timely manner. READ MORE

At its best, free enterprise can create abundant opportunities for compassion and justice to thrive. READ MORE

Making Right to Work a catchall for everything someone doesn’t like is both disingenuous and incorrect. READ MORE

The changes in education arising from the pandemic may be viewed as a temporary necessity by some, but it could serve as floodgates for educational innovation. READ MORE

Chattanooga would be wise to save the green and get out of the greens fees business.  READ MORE

“Do we have the stomach to enforce this law” really ought to be the first question asked before we pass a law. Regrettably, it rarely is. READ MORE

There is a reason why Tennessee continues to be one of the fastest-growing areas for families and businesses to move to, and we should be proud to advocate for change and lead by example as truly “America at Its Best.”  READ MORE

As we come within weeks of when schools would traditionally resume, school districts across the nation are grappling with how to safely do so. Some plan to proceed as normal with extra sanitation and social distancing protocols. Some are going virtual. Others are offering parents a choice between the two. But with many unanswered questions... READ MORE

Kudos to the 25 Council members for fighting to defend that dream in a time when having a source of income is both more difficult to come by and more important than it ever has been. READ MORE

In times of crisis and uncertainty, it is important to be careful of the individual liberties we give up for the appearance of safety. READ MORE

By now, we hope you know about the Beacon Center’s City Freedom Index, but in case you missed it, check it out here. The Freedom Index is Beacon’s newest report informing Tennesseans on the lengths at which local government is regulating your daily life. Its purpose is to equip citizens so they can vote with... READ MORE

We’ve got you covered on the biggest shockers from the 111th General Assembly. READ MORE

According to a recent Beacon poll, 68% of voters say they would vote for it on the ballot when that time comes. READ MORE

Last night may very well be the turning point in Nashville's growth and the day Nashville went from 'It' city to 'It was' city. READ MORE

There has never been a more important time to embrace this meaningful way to deliver care to our fellow Tennesseans. READ MORE

Local governments shouldn’t be kicking citizens while they’re down, but protecting the freedom of citizens to lift themselves up. READ MORE

It’s sad that the government's interest in protecting against the loss of money supersedes the interest of families’ ability to get their child a better education. READ MORE

Good public policy should always be designed to incentivize people to get back to work, aligning the short-run with the long-run. READ MORE

It would be patently unfair—and even reward bad actors—to force Tennesseans to fund a bailout of pension systems for bankrupt states like Kentucky. READ MORE

The Beacon Center respectfully disagrees with today’s ruling from the Davidson County Chancery Court that the ESA program is unconstitutional. This decision harms children in Davidson and Shelby County who are looking for a lifeline to receive a quality education starting this upcoming fall. Educational choice has consistently been deemed constitutional by courts across the country; this program does not unconstitutionally... READ MORE

We must all stand with small business owners who, like Carey, Lij, and Pat, are just struggling to survive under the weight of Nashville’s heavy thumb. READ MORE

At the rate that local lawmakers are attempting to raise taxes, accountability from taxpayers might be the only thing that will slow them down.  READ MORE

It matters less what our individual opinions are on the best way for the government to deal with COVID-19 than our understanding that these arbitrary rules unfairly hurt business owners and people who are just trying to make a living and put food on the table. READ MORE

As our state fights this pandemic, a potential economic collapse, and seeks a “return to normalcy,” doubling down on free markets isn’t just our best hope. It’s our only hope.  READ MORE

After announcing a plan for a phased in re-opening of the economy on Monday, Gov. Lee should base these actions on public health factors. READ MORE

Instead of taking the easy way out, politicians across the country need to start using more fiscal discipline so they can take care of their citizens when the next crisis happens. READ MORE

Through technology and innovation, Tennessee is doing its part to find a vaccine for COVID-19 thanks in part to Summit—the world’s most powerful supercomputer—located at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The Summit supercomputer, built by IBM, is part of the newly formed COVID-19 High Performance Computing Consortium (HPCC) which has academic institutions, federal laboratories, and... READ MORE

If we had to eliminate a regulation during this crisis, why does that regulation need to exist in the first place? READ MORE

A brand new package of 20 policy solutions focused on what policies the state of Tennessee should and shouldn't enact moving forward when it deals with COVID-19 READ MORE

We can both protect public health in the short-run while also minimizing long-term economic damage. READ MORE

It is refreshing to see some leaders use this opportunity to lean on the power of the free market to solve this crisis. READ MORE

With the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be many challenges facing our communities over the coming weeks and potentially months. But there will also be some exceptional stories of how innovation and good public policy rooted in the foundations of free enterprise will help lead us out of the crisis. We will witness how innovations like... READ MORE

Dear Supporters,  We certainly live in trying times. Between the recent tornadoes that ravaged many of our communities to the Coronavirus and related economic fallout, we all have a great deal on our minds right now. First and foremost, we pray that you and your family are safe and healthy. We would love to hear... READ MORE

By giving voters some skin in the game when it comes to local property tax increases, we can join the other 46 states in ensuring that property taxes don’t run amuck. READ MORE

If you think that you should have a say about property tax hikes in your community, sign this petition and join us in the fight for fiscal responsibility and low taxes! READ MORE

When we talk about such large expenditures of public money, taxpayers deserve the right to know who is receiving this money and if these companies are being held accountable. READ MORE

Our hope is that Right to Work will be enshrined in the Tennessee Constitution where it belongs, protecting worker freedom for generations to come. READ MORE

When Will McLemore started McLemore Auction Company in 2006, it was one of the first online auction houses in the country. At the time, most auctioneers practiced exclusively in live auctions, but with the growth of online shopping, online auctions presented new opportunities for auctioneers to grow their businesses around the country. Will, with his... READ MORE

Properly structured, block grants can lead to better outcomes while spending fewer taxpayer dollars. READ MORE

All indicators show that Tennessee is now ahead of the curve and state lawmakers and policy workers should work to keep it that way. READ MORE

Social media users need to learn how to pick our battles. READ MORE

Brooke Harrell and her family live in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, around 30 miles from Dickson where she works as a cosmetology instructor at Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT). A graduate of TCAT-Dickson, Brooke has always lived in rural Tennessee, even though Nashville, less than 80 miles away is bursting with opportunities. Brooke’s husband is... READ MORE

We should cherish the free speech protections we still have and refrain from searching for self-gratifying ways of restricting some of those freedoms, lest we risk losing all of them. READ MORE

This week, Beacon was selected as a “Smart Bet” for 2020 by the Atlas Network. Atlas is an international network of think tanks from all over the world. At an upcoming U.S. Investors Summit in New York, just 10 of these think tanks will be given the opportunity to pitch to a group of successful... READ MORE

Want to work at Beacon? We don’t blame you. We were recently featured on Zippia’s blog. Read the article here to see what we’re all about! READ MORE

As Mayor Briley’s handlers and rich friends try to paint the picture of an effective mayor who moved the city of Nashville forward during his time in office, I’m calling bullsh*t. READ MORE

Today is Constitution Day. And on what should be a universally recognized holiday, I was privileged to be invited to speak at the illustrious Cato Institute on Constitutional Structure with two of the finest constitutional scholars in the land. Even though I am sure to be the yellow flavor Starburst in this particular packet, this... READ MORE

No one gets to say what you can and can’t say in America. READ MORE

As Beacon starts to take a closer look at potential improvements to the welfare system in Tennessee, CEO Justin Owen has a closer connection with the issue than you might be aware. Justin spent most of his formative years living with his mother and his grandparents. He was unaware at the time that his mom... READ MORE

I’ll take a low tax business friendly state over a tax dependent state like California any day of the week. READ MORE

Nashville is somehow $4.5 billion in debt, which is more than double the debt of the entire state of Tennessee. READ MORE

It truly is amazing what Debra and hundreds of other Tennesseans have done to go from welfare to work and end the cycle of poverty with their generation.  READ MORE

As the largest source of new job creation in our economy, the government should be making it easier for small entrepreneurs to succeed instead of stacking the deck against them. READ MORE

There are a lot of issues currently facing Nashville: massive levels of debt despite an unprecedented economic boom, crumbling infrastructure, a growing sense of an identity crisis, and fights over public employee pay raises. One would think these very real issues would be at the forefront of the council’s work and the mayoral race. But... READ MORE

The final rankings based on the above categories will be released on July 4, 2020, giving every city time to pass reforms or make changes to improve its score. READ MORE

To all those companies seeking a friendly business environment here in Tennessee, welcome home. We’re glad to have you. READ MORE

Beacon is beginning a series of posts to help you get to know our board members. First, we have an interview with John Cerasuolo, Beacon Board Chairman.  READ MORE

In the past few weeks alone, at least four local governments have proposed massive property tax increases totaling more than $200 million a year. READ MORE

“The government took away my ability to make money and limited the free market. They kept us out of business, so I’m thankful that the Beacon Center helped me fight that.” READ MORE

“I encourage [all braiders] to make an effort not to miss out on what we can do because of this bill. We get a clean slate. It finally happened.” READ MORE

The reason Tennessee should continue to give little—or, even better, outright eliminate these programs—is because film incentives have been shown to be a terrible value. READ MORE

Speedway Motorsports asked Nashville city officials for a handout to plop a racetrack next to the new Major League Soccer stadium that is already in the works and is itself subsidized by taxpayers. READ MORE

The Tennessee legislative session wrapped up this week. Here is a recap from Policy Coordinator Ron Shultis. READ MORE

"The next time a UT basketball fan complains about our lack of income tax, just remind them that without Tennessee’s forward-thinking tax policies, we would be stuck with the basketball equivalent of Butch Jones." READ MORE

Justin Owen addresses the facts about education savings accounts. READ MORE

What is needed is clear and concise language that encourages officers to issue a citation in lieu of arrest for low-level nonviolent offences unless there is a clear reason to arrest known to the officer at the time. READ MORE

In March, the Beacon Center of Tennessee was named one of Nashville’s Best Places to Work by the Nashville Business Journal (NBJ). READ MORE

As one of many changes to try to pay down Nashville's crippling debt, Mayor David Briley has decided to change the name of Nashville to Pizza Hut P'Zoneville. . . . Happy April Fool's Day from the Beacon Center! READ MORE

The government shouldn’t have the power to require you to pay to do something on your own property that doesn’t hurt anybody, especially when it’s a kid trying to make a couple of bucks on a hot Saturday afternoon.   READ MORE

He has a clear vision for our state, and we look forward to helping pursue meaningful policy reforms that will make Tennessee a freer, more prosperous place to live, work, and raise a family. READ MORE

If approved, Tennessee would become the first state to receive a block grant enabling the state to design a Medicaid program that truly meets the needs of Tennesseans with innovative solutions. READ MORE

Over 21% of Tennessee workers currently need a license to work. That’s the 12th highest percentage in the land. READ MORE

Regulatory red tape strangles our entrepreneurs and often exists merely to shield industry insiders from competition rather than truly protect the public. READ MORE

This National School Choice Week, let’s focus on spreading real education opportunity to all Tennesseans. READ MORE

The city isn’t lacking for revenue. Its officials have a spending addiction. READ MORE

The Beacon Center of Tennessee released a new report on the state of Tennessee's economic incentive programs and exposed major issues with many of the subsidies. READ MORE

Today the Beacon Center of Tennessee announced a new Vice President of Development and two new board members. READ MORE

A recent study by our friends at the Institute for Justice found that unnecessary licensing red tape keeps 46,068 Tennesseans out of work. READ MORE

In the 13th annual Tennessee Pork Report, the Beacon Center once again revealed millions of dollars in government waste, fraud, and abuse ranging from a new taxpayer-funded MLS soccer stadium in Nashville to a Memphis company that was given $5 million just to move across town. READ MORE

‘Twas the night before Christmas, and as is tradition,We would like to say thank you for supporting our mission.This year was successful, and we hope you’ll agree,That our policy victories have made us more free. It’s the time of the year for you to uncork,Our report that is filled with overspending and porkOur Pork Report will... READ MORE

Tennessee would be wise to start thinking proactively about a new approach to seizing criminal assets. READ MORE

Education Savings Accounts as a means of school choice allows us the liberty to pull ourselves up by our bootstraps and pursue the American Dream at full throttle. READ MORE

Amazon, one of the world's most valuable companies, and the government played taxpayers. READ MORE

Bill Lee’s victory is a good one for those who are fans of free enterprise and challenging the status quo. READ MORE

Knoxville residents, don’t give up your rights for chickens. You can have both. If the government can get you to give up one right, it can get you to give up others. READ MORE