Newsroom

NASHVILLE – For scammers, the season of holiday giving is the season of taking, and Tennesseans’ hard-earned money again tops scammers’ wish lists. Unfortunately, Tennessee consumers are falling for scammers’ ploys when it comes to gift card swindles in increasing numbers. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)’s Consumer Sentinel Network reports Tennesseans lost nearly $1 million – over $943,000 – through prepaid gift card scams in 2018, which is a 44 % increase compared to 2017 when scammers stole $653,709 from consumers.

The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is working to find more partners next year to serve as sponsors of the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). The CACFP is a federally funded program that provides meals to children and adults who meet age and income requirements. TDHS administers the program in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to reimburse sponsoring organizations for meals that meet or exceed federal nutrition standards.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. Today, Tennessee Governor-elect Bill Lee announced four additions to his staff in the Office of the Governor, all of whom will have responsibilities connected to Legislative Affairs.

NASHVILLE – Opinions may differ on when to start decorating for the holidays, but one thing is certain: Practicing fire safety during the holidays can drastically reduce the likelihood of a home fire. To raise awareness of fire-safe behaviors this holiday season, the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) is asking Tennesseans to “Be a Good Elf” when it comes to selecting, decorating, and maintaining Christmas trees.

Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe and Ebbtide Holdings LLC officials today announced that the boat manufacturer will establish a plant in White Bluff and create nearly 100 jobs over the next five years.

– Scooter sharing services, like Bird and Lime, are a growing alternative transportation means in some urban areas of the United States. These battery-powered scooters, which can currently be found in Nashville and Memphis, can reach speeds of up to 20 mph and are generally operated on roadways. While the scooters are easy to operate and readily available, the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) is urging consumers to always consider the insurance implications of operating a scooter before using one.

STANTON, Tenn. - The new Interstate 40 Solar Farm Information and Welcome Center is officially open in Haywood County. State and local leaders gathered today to celebrate the modern 14,000-square-foot building, which will greet visitors traveling the I-40 corridor annually. On display and at the heart of the center is an interactive exhibit designed by the University of Tennessee, SPECTRUM, which highlights the state’s advancements in renewable energy.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe today announced that Advanced Plating, Inc. will expand its Middle Tennessee operations by locating a new facility in Portland. The electroplating manufacturer will create 200 jobs and invest approximately $4 million in Sumner County.

FRANKLIN, Tenn. – At the Tennessee Farm Bureau Annual Convention, Tennessee Governor-elect Bill Lee announced that Dr. Charlie Hatcher will join his cabinet to serve as Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe and Portobello America, Inc. officials announced today that the company will locate its U.S. headquarters and first U.S. production facility in Baxter.

NASHVILLE – The option to “try before your buy” when looking for a product or service can be enticing, but the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance’s (TDCI) Consumer Affairs Division is advising consumers to approach free trial offers with caution.