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Gov. Lee scales back Tennessee spending amid virus outbreak

The state legislature is scrambling to pass the spending plan for the 2020-21 fiscal year and other items lawmakers say are “mission critical” before they recess

As coronavirus fears grow, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee has proposed funneling money into relief for tornado and health crises, scaling back planned teacher raises, and socking more cash away into reserves. 

Lee unveiled the scaled-back budget to lawmakers Wednesday. 

The state legislature is scrambling to pass the spending plan for the 2020-21 fiscal year and other items lawmakers say are “mission critical” before they recess this week.

Meanwhile, lawmakers also considered proposals that would ease requirements for schools choosing to close amid the virus outbreak. 

Tennessee had more than 70 confirmed cases as of Tuesday, most of them in Middle Tennessee.

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Tennessee lawmakers acknowledged they were shirking federal health recommendations on the coronavirus by sitting in close quarters as they conducted business Tuesday. 

They also drew questions about whether they were staying focused on only the most necessary legislation, as promised, during sprint toward a recess by the end of the week. 

The Republican leadership has said it's focusing on “mission critical” legislation, including constitutionally required budget duties. 

Lawmakers hope to disperse amid global closures to stem the virus' spread and come back as soon as June 1. 

A Senate committee, meanwhile, became tied up in election-related bills and other legislation.

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