A group of Tennessee pastors affiliated with the Southern Christian Coalition condemned Tennessee lawmakers for what the group said was a “harmful” legislative session.
“As a Christian pastor, I believe all children are made in the image of God and deserve the freedom to learn, be themselves, and thrive—regardless of where they’re born or their family’s income,” said Rev. Dr. C. Don Jones, Pastor of Andersonville and Heiskell United Methodist Churches in East Tennessee. “Yet this 2025 legislative session has harmed vulnerable children across our state. While we’re thankful some of the worst bills didn’t pass, significant damage was still done. The January Special Session’s voucher program diverted public education funds to private schools, hurting children in public schools. Lawmakers also continued restricting TANF funds meant to help families in poverty, and Governor Lee rejected federal money intended to feed hungry children during summer months. When will these attacks on our children stop?”
More on Lee’s rejection of federal funds to feed hungry kids
Lee rejected $75 million in federal funds that would have supported a program to add funds to EBT cards for families whose kids receive free/reduced lunch during the school year.
