MURFREESBORO, Nov. 6, 2017– Representative Bryan Terry, MD (R-Murfreesboro) was presented with the Champion of Prosperity award from Americans for Prosperity-Tennessee recently at the GOP headquarters in downtown Murfreesboro. The award was earned by Rep. Terry and other Tennessee legislators who displayed a track record of defending taxpayers while promoting individual and business prosperity during the 2017 session.
“Americans for Prosperity-Tennessee is recognizing legislators across the state who stood up for Tennessee taxpayers in 2017,” stated James Amundsen, Deputy State Director Of AFP-TN. “Representative Terry has a long track record of being the taxpayer’s friend while advocating for income mobility, jobs, and less government. We are honored to present him with a ‘Champion of Prosperity’ award for 2017.”
During his tenure as state representative for District 48, has earned the reputation as a leader for hard working individuals, families and small businesses. During the 2017 session, he was the only legislator to appear on the 99.7 WTN gas tax town hall to argue against the tax hike and vote against the measure. In addition, in proving that he is willing to work for taxpayers, he offered three different amendments to the gas tax hike that would have saved taxpayers money or not cost taxpayers a dime while stabilizing transportation funding.
“Most people may not be aware, but the IMPROVE Act wasn’t just a gas tax hike. It had fourteen new or increased fees, four increased taxes on fuel, and six local tax increase options. While it offered some tax decreases that were positive, it certainly wasn’t pocketbook neutral to Tennessee families,” stated Rep. Terry. “Inflation has risen above expected rates due to the hurricane’s impact on gas prices, and the gas tax didn’t help. Tennessee is fortunate that consumer confidence is rising under President Trump and Tennessee is positioned well economically; thus, mitigating some of the negative effects of the tax hike.”
Rep. Terry says that working in small business and as an anesthesiologist, he has had experience with both lives and livelihoods in his hands. “Growing up and working in a third generation auto salvage family and now being a partner in a medical practice, I certainly know and understand the struggles of small businesses and employees. Whether dealing with the business side personally or listening to constituent concerns, my background in both the blue collar and white collar worlds helps me to be a better advocate for the district.”
Tennessee is ranked number one in small business growth, has the least debt per capita, and has the lowest state taxes. In addition, Tennessee’s unemployment rate is the lowest in recorded history while the average small business wages are $22.84 per hour which is well above the $15 per hour argued for by liberals and socialists.
“It’s truly an honor to receive this award. I’m proud to stand with the people of Tennessee and our business community to ensure we have prosperity for our individuals and hard working families,” said Rep. Terry.
Representative Bryan Terry, MD is the Chairman of the Tennessee House Health Subcommittee and serves on the full House Health and Civil Justice Committees. His office can be reached at 615-741-2180 or rep.Bryan.Terry@capitol.tn.gov.