**Legislative Highlights from Senator Joey Hensley, MD**
**2024 Session of the 113th General Assembly**
The 113th General Assembly has officially concluded its 2024 session, marking a year of significant achievements aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Tennessee. The legislature has enacted a variety of measures designed to improve the state for its residents, workers, and families. Below are some key pieces of legislation that were passed during this session.
**Support for Veterans and First Responders**
A new law has been established to provide bonuses for skilled military personnel, enabling the Department of Military to implement a critical skills retention bonus program. This initiative is intended to address staffing shortages in essential military operations within the Tennessee National Guard. Additionally, the law ensures that service members called to active duty receive partial paid coverage, thereby alleviating financial burdens during their service.
In another significant move, the Tennessee General Assembly updated workers’ compensation benefits for National Guard members. The new law mandates that benefits for injuries or fatalities incurred during active state duty be calculated based on the higher of either the member’s civilian wages or their active duty pay. Previously, benefits were solely based on Guard pay, which often resulted in lower compensation for those who earned more in their civilian roles.
Furthermore, a new law has been enacted to authorize disabled decals for motorcycle license plates, catering to veterans and other Tennessee residents who are disabled yet capable of riding motorcycles. This measure aims to enhance accessibility for those who have served and continue to contribute to the community.
The Veterans Treatment Court Program also received attention this session. A new law requires the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (DMHSAS) to produce an annual report detailing the status of grant funds allocated to the program. This report, due by February 1 each year, will provide insights into the grants authorized, the counties benefiting from them, and the total outstanding grants. Such transparency is expected to aid lawmakers in making informed decisions regarding the program, which supports veterans facing rehabilitation and mental health challenges.
**Anti-Terrorism Initiatives**
This year, Tennessee lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Israel through the passage of a resolution. This measure expresses strong backing for Israel’s right to defend itself following the horrific terror attacks on October 7, 2023, when Hamas terrorists killed 1,200 Israeli civilians and took over 200 hostages. In response to these attacks, Israel declared war on Hamas, emphasizing its determination to protect its citizens. The longstanding alliance between Israel and the United States, which has