Tennessee’s 112th General Assembly reconvened on Tuesday in what is expected to be a short but monumental session as legislators tackle the once-a-decade redistricting process in the coming weeks.

The House and Senate gaveled in at noon for brief, largely ceremonial remarks. Legislators were in Capitol together as recently as October, as 2021 marked a marathon legislative year with three special sessions.

In the Senate on Tuesday, 31 members were present, with Sen. Raumesh Akbari, D-Nashville and Sen. Janice Bowling, R-Tullahoma, absent from the chamber. Rep. Eddie Mannis, R-Knoxville, and Rep. Vincent Dixie, D-Nashville, were absent from the House, according to the roll call.

Some lawmakers last week said to expect a shorter session this spring, possibly ending as soon as April, as redistricting and upcoming elections have legislators eager to hit the campaign trail.

House Majority Leader William Lamberth, who welcomed the House with a Scripture reading and opening remarks, confirmed Tuesday he plans to seek reelection as representative and majority leader.

“It is an honor to serve this great state in both roles and I will be humbly asking for support from my constituents and colleagues again this fall,” said Lamberth, R-Portland.

Meanwhile, senators were prepping for a string of committee meetings Tuesday afternoon. Both chambers are expected back Wednesday morning.

Redistricting is expected to dominate the first weeks of the session. The House’s redistricting committee will meet Wednesday morning, where Republicans are expected to unveil their congressional maps. The Senate redistricting panel will meet Thursday immediately following its floor session…..ReadMore….