New Committee chair post for Briggs

State Sen. Richard Briggs (R-District 7, which includes Farragut) has been appointed chairman of the Senate State and Local Government Committee by Lt. Gov. Randy McNally.

The State and Local Government Committee hears all matters pertaining to state and local governments in general, including utility districts, employees, ordinances, boundary lines, veterans’ affairs, penal and correctional institutions, alcoholic beverages and election laws.

“As a long-time leader in local government, Richard Briggs has the experience and insight to serve this committee well,” McNally said. “A proven and effective chairman, I am confident he will take on this new task and excel. I am proud to appoint him.”

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve in this capacity and the confidence placed in me by the Lieutenant Governor,” said Briggs, a former colonel in the U.S. Army. “As a former (Knox) County Commissioner, I understand the needs of local governments and the vital role they play in helping our communities thrive and grow. I look forward to seeing that they have the available resources they need.

“I am also excited about the opportunity to help our veterans in this new committee position. I take seriously the responsibility of providing our veterans with the best our state and country has to offer,” he added.

“Our committee has a heavy workload ahead of us this year and I look forward to working with my colleagues to meet the challenges ahead.”