TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Julia Wilburn on Nov 13, 2023

Tennessee’s delegation to Europe in June to promote the state cost taxpayers over $117,000, the Tennessean reports. Gov. Bill Lee, two of his staffers, two members of the Department of Economic and Community Development, two of their wives and two members of Lee’s security detail were in attendance for the six-day trip. According to the Tennessean, state policies governing travel related spending for most state employees require strict economy ― but there are exceptions for anyone traveling with the governor, and for economic development officials traveling to promote the state. “Creating jobs and greater opportunity for Tennesseans is one of Gov. Lee's top priorities, and strategic international trade missions have provided a significant return on investment,” spokesperson Elizabeth Johnson said in a statement.