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With the first quarter behind us and this year’s legislative session in full swing,
I wanted to give you a quick update on the progress we’re making as a state…
Most importantly, we’re seeing continued improvement in the state’s economy... In
fact, February marked the seventh consecutive month the state’s unemployment rate has
declined – it’s now at 8.0 percent – the lowest it's been since November of 2008.
With a substantial number of businesses choosing to expand their Tennessee operations, it’s
our hope that this trend is a function of one of the key strategies of our Jobs4TN plan:
promoting the expansion of existing businesses in Tennessee.
Just one recent example of this trend: plans for even more expansion at Volkswagen Group
of America's Chattanooga plant...
A few days ago I had the privilege of joining Volkswagen leadership and local leaders in
announcing another 800 positions on top of the 200 positions announced in January. Once
these positions are filled, Volkswagen Chattanooga will employ around 3,000 people, representing
50 percent more jobs than initially expected. And one final note on VW: since the Chattanooga-built
Passat won 2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year, 25% of Volkswagens sold in America are now
made in Tennessee - something every Tennessean should be very proud of...
While making Tennessee the number one state in the Southeast for high quality jobs is
a top priority, we're still focused on improving education and the efficiency and effectiveness
of state government.
On the education front, Crissy and I remain committed to promoting meaningful education
reform... And while STEM schools are just one part of the reform equation, I know parents
in Hamilton, Putnam and Sullivan counties are excited that their towns were chosen for
three new STEM schools. Bringing together partners from across our communities to educate
Tennessee students in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math is so important
to the future prosperity of our state.
And on efficiency and effectiveness in state government, we’re pleased to share some
recent developments on the TEAM Act. Late last week, the TSEA came to us with their
recommendations for final changes to our bill. As a result of that cooperation, the TSEA
supports our legislation that preserves the key components to fundamentally updating our
employment system. Being able to reward, retain and recruit the best and brightest employees
is a key component of our plan to improve customer service and move Tennessee forward.
I appreciate the strong support we’ve received from the Legislature on this effort to date
and appreciate their continued support in these final weeks of session.
While we continue to face significant challenges, I’m encouraged by the progress we’ve made
together. It’s a privilege and honor to serve as your governor. Thanks for helping.