Capitol Roundup: Rep. Reneau Supports Child Protection, Veterans, and Local Control

It's been another busy week at the State Capitol, and I wanted to share some important updates on legislation that affects our community. As always, your input guides my work in Nashville, and I'm grateful for your continued engagement.

Key Legislation This Week

House Bill 583 permits the introduction into evidence of video recordings of child victims being interviewed by forensic interviewers regarding sexual or physically violent contact. Having worked for a forensic assessment center in college, I understand why this is necessary. This important legislation helps reduce trauma for children who have already been put in awful situations.

I co-sponsored House Bill 712, which establishes guidelines for service providers to hire qualified family members as caregivers. Many people currently must quit their jobs to care for loved ones. Under this bill, qualified caregivers providing a TennCare reimbursable service would now be able to receive payment for caring for their family members.

As a co-sponsor of House Bill 918, I supported legislation requiring the issuance of temporary hunting licenses for disabled veterans who participate in hunting experiences paid for by nonprofit organizations. This honors their service while promoting outdoor recreation opportunities.

House Bill 579 adds the offense of robbery to the definition of violent crime, ensuring appropriate penalties for serious offenses.

I co-sponsored House Bill 749, which designates out-of-state driver's licenses issued exclusively to illegal aliens as invalid driver's licenses in Tennessee.

Another measure I co-sponsored, House Joint Resolution 131, acknowledges the importance of positive male role models and mentorship opportunities in schools, nonprofit organizations, and faith-based organizations.

I opposed House Bill 199, which would allow the TDEC commissioner to override local authority and regulations to issue variances for subsurface sewage disposal systems for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Decisions such as these are best made locally, as local decision makers understand the nuances and uniqueness of an area. When possible, issues should be decided at the local level with officials who are vested in the community.

Legislative Calendar Update

All committees are winding down and on final calendars, with many closing. This means we will have more House sessions to vote on final legislation. We will be moving from two House sessions per week to three next week (Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday). When the calendars are posted to the Capitol website, you'll be able to see what we will be voting on each day.

Let's Stay Connected

Your feedback shapes my work at the Capitol! I welcome your thoughts on these or any other legislative matters affecting our district. Please don't hesitate to reach out to my office by phone at (615) 741-2746 or by email at Rep.Michele.Reneau@capitol.tn.gov.

It's an honor representing you in Nashville. Together, we can ensure our community's values are reflected in state policy.