NASHVILLE – A Tennessee lawmaker accused by former students of sexual misconduct has stepped down as chairman of a House education subcommittee after being asked to by House Speaker Glen Casada.
Casada, R-Franklin, confirmed Thursday that Rep. David Byrd, R-Waynesboro, is no longer in charge of the Education Administration Subcommittee.
“Following discussions with members of the House and after careful consideration, I have formally asked Representative Byrd to step down from his position as Chairman of the House Education Administration Subcommittee,” Casada said in a statement. “Representative Byrd agrees that this is the best path forward in ensuring the House of Representatives can focus on the issues that truly matter to all Tennesseans.”
Casada said his decision was based on “input from members and to continue the orderly operations of the House. I thank Representative Byrd for agreeing to serve in this position, and I am confident this body will be even stronger moving forward.”
The Tennessean reported that prior to Thursday’s floor session, Byrd was seen exiting a meeting with Casada at the Capitol.