State Rep. Dan Howell (R-Cleveland) has successfully guided House Bill 951 through the Tennessee House of Representatives.
The measure - which is part of Governor Bill Lee’s legislative package this year -removes licensure requirements for citizens who provide direct care to a group of no more than three people with intellectual or developmental disabilities in a Medicaid home or community-based services program.
The overall goal is to increase the quality of care available, so these important groups are empowered to live successfully in their communities.
“I am pleased that my House colleagues unanimously supported this legislation that will improve the quality of care available for our intellectually, and developmentally disabled citizens and their families,” said Rep. Howell. “I appreciate the Governor and House leadership for asking me to serve as co-prime sponsor, and I look forward to my Senate colleagues taking action on this initiative in the weeks ahead.”
His office said, "Traditionally, the Governor’s legislation is sponsored by the House Majority Leader or the Assistant Majority Leader. Because Chairman Howell has prioritized the needs of our intellectually, and developmentally disabled, he was asked by the leadership team to carry this important legislation on their behalf."
“Chairman Howell is a passionate advocate for our citizens with disabilities and their caretakers,” said House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-Portland). “He did a great job guiding this legislation through the House, and I am grateful to him for all of his hard work.”
“House Bill 951 will have an incredible impact on Tennesseans with disabilities and their families,” said Assistant Majority Leader Ron Gant (R-Rossville). “Congratulations to Rep. Howell on getting this initiative passed, and I appreciate his dedication to these important groups and to our state.”
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