Summary of the FY 2021 Preliminary Budget
With pandemic here and recession near, lawmakers passed a preliminary FY 2021 budget that trims $854 million from Gov. Lee’s first draft.
Public Policy Research and Analysis
Below you’ll find The Sycamore Institute’s research, analysis, issue briefs, legislative summaries, commentary, news, and other resources to help you navigate the complex public policy issues that affect and connect Tennesseans’ health and well-being, prosperity, and the state budget.
ALL PUBLICATIONS
Tennessee Tax Revenue Tracker for FY 2020
Tennessee collected about $544 million (or 6%) more tax revenue through February 2020 than was originally budgeted for the current fiscal year.
State Budget Surpluses, Deficits, and Rainy Day Funds
We explain why surpluses and deficits occur, the role of revenue projections and rainy day funds, and the trade-offs Tennessee policymakers must weigh when crafting the budget.
A Deep Dive into Health Insurance Coverage in Tennessee
Trends in Coverage, Choice, and Costs Since 2010
For better or worse, robust access to the U.S. health care system is largely predicated on having health insurance.
4 Reasons an Accurate Census Matters for Tennessee
Tennessee will use the 2020 census to allocate taxpayer resources, redraw legislative districts, and make countless policy decisions over the next decade.
The Budget in Brief: Summary of Gov. Lee’s FY 2021 Recommended Budget
Gov. Lee unveiled a range of priorities with his second budget, most notably in the areas of teacher pay, literacy, mental health, and criminal justice.
How TennCare’s Block Grant Proposal Compares to New Federal Guidance
Even if Tennessee’s plan has a separate path to approval, it’s likely to undergo significant changes.
2018 Income, Poverty, Education, and Insurance Coverage in Tennessee’s 95 Counties
Latest Data Show Mixed Progress & Persistent Rural-Urban Differences
Census data for Tennessee's 95 counties continue to show large differences in household income, poverty, education level, and health insurance coverage.
What’s in Tennessee’s Medicaid Block Grant Request?
TennCare's latest proposal retains the same basic components as the September 2019 draft with some new specifics and assurances
The Roots of a Thriving Tennessee
And The Factors That Influence Them
Families, businesses, and our economy all thrive when people enjoy good health, social and financial well-being, and the chance to make meaningful contributions to society.
