NASHVILLE-State Senator Mae Beavers (R-Mt. Juliet) has been re-appointed Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.  The announcement was made by Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey as the 106th General Assembly concluded their organizational session in Nashville Friday.

“I appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve as Judiciary Committee Chairman” said Sen. Beavers. “We have critical issues before us this year dealing with our courts, DUI laws, and public safety.  I look forward to a challenging year with these issues, given the state’s current financial problems.”

The Judiciary Committee is responsible for hearing all bills dealing with civil laws, criminal laws, judicial proceedings, apportionment of elected officials and governing bodies, and all matters relating to the courts, as well as law enforcement.  Beavers was also appointed to the Commerce, Labor and Agriculture Committee and the Transportation Committee.  The Transportation Committee is also expected to hear legislation of critical importance to Tennessee’s road program this year.

Sen. Beavers is currently serving her second term in the State Senate, after serving four terms in the House of Representatives.  Prior to being elected to the legislature, Sen. Beavers worked as a paralegal and a court reporter.

“Senator Beavers did an outstanding job as our Judiciary Committee Chairman during her first term,” said Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey.  “I am very pleased that she agreed to take on this huge responsibility again for our 2009 and 2010 sessions and am confident she will carry out her duties as chairman again with the same dedication and professionalism.”