On May 16th I participated in a LWVTN Zoom meeting to conduct the business of the state League. Claudia Lever, Mary Ann Reeves and Mary Uziel joined me along with some forty others. The state president, Marian Ott, moved us smoothly through the agenda. Over about two hours, we conducted the necessary business. The various Leagues in the state reported on their activities, we adopted the budget and we heard from Stewart Clifton, the lobbyist for the LWVTN.

Some highlights of the meeting included the news that in northeastern TN the activity of the League is on the rise. Various leagues in the state have found ways to keep working during the pandemic by meeting via email, or using apps such as Zoom. Some positions taken by the League on legislative issues have gained ground. Court actions on the bill creating civil and criminal penalties for errors in voter registration have made the law suit essentially moot. On the issue of school vouchers, which the League opposes, the courts have supported the League position. In this time of social distancing the League is paying particular attention to the need for open meetings - using technology - by local governments around the state.

Concerns were raised about the variability across the state on applications for absentee voting. TN is one of only 17 states that requires an excuse to vote absentee. (*See following note) Many Leagues are looking for ways to make voters aware of their options and to ensure that their ballots are not rejected.

Stewart Clifton reminded us that he works with legislators from both political parties and that the League’s non-partisan stance is very, very important. Efforts to recruit new League members should emphasize all aspects of diversity.

I came away from the Tennessee Spring Council content in my choice to be a part of the League of Women Voters.

*Note: Pursuant to a decision by the Davidson County Chancery Court, any registered voter who does not wish to vote in person due to the COVID-19 situation may request an absentee ballot by mail. The following website provides a variety of useful information about absentee voting: https://sos.tn.gov/products/elections/absentee-voting.