NASHVILLE - A spokesman for Gov. Bill Haslam said today the governor continues to have problems with a controversial bill approved by state lawmakers Monday night that designates the Holy Bible as Tennessee government's "Official State Book."
"As you know, the governor has constitutional questions and personal reservations about this legislation," David Smith, Haslam's communications director, stated Monday in an email response to questions.
Smith added that "as is his practice, he's currently reviewing it before taking any action on it."
On a 19-8 vote, senators gave final approval to the bill which honors the Bible for its "great historical and cultural significance in the State of Tennessee as a record of the history of Tennessee families that predates some modern vital statistical records."
The bill cleared the House last year.
Sponsors hope the description allows the designation that adds the Bible to lengthy list of other state symbols and objects like a sniper rifle, cave salamander and a murder ballad will allow the move to survive legal challenge.
Opponents say it demeans a religious book that has stood the test of time fairly well on its own and they also add has had no problem reaching individuals without the hand of government.
Tennessee Attorney General Herbert Slatery last year issued a legal opinion saying it violates both the Tennessee and U.S. Constitutions.
Last week, Haslam, a Republican, indicated he could veto the bill, saying he "expressed reservations last year, both personally - the Bible is the most important book in my life and I think in the world - but that's very different than being the state's official book. And so I have some constitutional questions as well as some personal reservations."
Asked specifically if it could be a candidate for a veto, Haslam said, "I don't know. I always say let's wait and see how it gets to us. Maybe there will be some amendment that will change it. But as it is now my concerns from last year haven't changed."