By Adam Friedman | Reporter
Good morning, Lookout readers:
Tennessee lawmakers passed an under-the-radar bill earlier this year to create an eight-member board with the power to initiate investigations and fund 32 positions for a new group within the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.
This appointed board can dispatch agents to investigate a range of criminal offenses and work in any judicial district without a request from a local law enforcement agency.
Reporter Sam Stockard has more details in his story below on how this board now allows TBI to work around law enforcement they disagree with and embed within the Memphis Safe Task.
Note: The Lookout’s 2026 Midterm Election Guide is live. This guide has details on the candidates running in November for governor, U.S. Senate, U.S. House, state House and state Senate.
Of course here at the Lookout, we’ll provide you with a steady stream of stories on the races and issues most relevant ahead of the election.
THE LOOKOUT’S TOP STORY
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation will embed with the Memphis Safe Task Force, which already includes members of the state National Guard, pictured above. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)
by Sam Stockard
The state is pouring $9 million this year into a Tennessee Bureau of Investigation task force given wide-reaching authority across the state, including working with the Memphis Safe Task Force.
NEWS AND NOTES
Doctors say children of immigrants are missing healthcare | Nada Hassanein
FEATURED IN THE LOOKOUT
A new report by The Sycamore Institute finds Tennessee families who earn more than the federal poverty limit still struggle to pay for basic needs. Food banks across Tennessee and pop-up food pantries work to fill gaps. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)
by Cassandra Stephenson
A Michigan-based die casting manufacturer plans to move into a vacant Madison County facility, investing $10.3 million and pledging to create 100 jobs, the company and Tennessee’s economic development arm announced Tuesday.
John Cole’s Tennessee: Tennessee is experiencing record-high temperatures for September. But who knows why?
ICYMI
Spoilers or contenders? Two independent candidates for TN governor try to shake up the race | Adam Friedman and Sam Stockard
Hatcher says he’s amenable to Molder’s challenge to debate before 5th District election | Cassandra Stephenson
Stockard on the Stump: One man picks state rep in Memphis | Sam Stockard
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