NASHVILLE – Tennessee legislators convene Monday for a special session to clean up a problem they created last spring when they passed a DUI law that could cost the state $60 million in federal road funding.
But bringing the state back into compliance with federal requirements is likely to be overshadowed by a completely unrelated issue. For what appears to be just the third time since Tennessee became a state in 1796, the House is on the verge of expelling one of its own.
Rep. Jeremy Durham stands accused of serial sexual harassment or inappropriate behavior by nearly two dozen female legislative staffers, interns and lobbyists. The accusations are contained in an investigative report by Tennessee Attorney General Herbert Slatery.
Some GOP colleagues also accuse the Franklin Republican of erratic behavior, political threats and bullying tactics.
Durham, 32, has rejected most of the charges and contends others were the result of distortions or misunderstandings. He claims his political enemies are out to get him.