BBBTV12 Serving Anderson, Roane, and Morgan Counties
By State Senator Ken Yager (submitted)
February 27, 2026
Week 6 of the General Assembly has come to a close, and the Senate took up several important measures that will have a direct impact on communities across our state. From strengthening disaster relief resources and advancing rural health care initiatives to supporting children and families, it was a productive week focused on practical solutions for Tennesseans.
I presented my first bill on the Senate floor this year on behalf of Governor Bill Lee and Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin). The legislation focuses on helping local governments receive timely assistance when disaster strikes, something that has become increasingly important as Tennessee has experienced more than its share of severe weather events in recent years.
Unfortunately, current federal FEMA guidelines often make it nearly impossible for small towns and rural communities to qualify for assistance after a disaster. Our legislation addresses that gap. The bill, which passed the Senate with only one dissenting vote, allows the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) to offer grants and low-interest loans to cities, towns, metropolitan governments, and utilities for debris cleanup, road and infrastructure repairs, and hazard mitigation projects.
One provision of the bill is especially meaningful to me. It authorizes uninsured individuals to apply for assistance if their property is damaged or destroyed. A few years ago, the town of Sunbright in my district was devastated by a tornado. Some homeowners who lost everything were unable to qualify for federal help because of restrictive eligibility rules. That should never happen again, and this legislation ensures that Tennesseans facing disaster are not left behind simply because of bureaucracy.
We are also making progress on rural health care. The Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee approved the first appropriation from the Rural Health Care Transformation Program, which will bring about $1 billion to Tennessee over the next five years to strengthen rural hospitals, expand access to care, and modernize technology. I will be working with local communities to help ensure our district benefits from these investments.
The Commerce Committee, of which I am a member, unanimously approved legislation to help child amputees obtain a second prosthetic so they can participate in sports and other activities. Families shared powerful testimony, and this bill will require insurance to help cover the cost. It is a commonsense step that will help children live more active, fulfilling lives.
Finally, there is still time for students in our district to serve as a Senate Page this session. It is truly an experience of a lifetime, and I encourage families to call my office to schedule a visit.
If you have any questions or would like to set up a visit to the Capitol, reach my office at: sen.ken.yager@capitol.tn.gov or at (615) 741-1449.
