News

Actions

Rep. Byrd protesters removed from legislative hearing

Posted at 8:44 PM, Feb 26, 2019
and last updated 2019-02-26 21:44:55-05

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A top Tennessee Republican has asked troopers to escort a handful of protesters out of a legislative hearing after the group held signs and asked committee members if they approved of a lawmaker who's accused of sexual misconduct chairing the panel.

House Speaker Glen Casada made the decision during a Tuesday hearing. The six women were sitting in the front row and only started asking questions while the education subcommittee was in recess.

None of the women was charged once escorted out of the room.

Casada has come under fire for appointing Rep. David Byrd to an education subcommittee despite three women accusing the Republican of sexual misconduct when he was their high school basketball coach decades ago.

Byrd did not address the women during Tuesday's hearing.