(NASHVILLE) — This week, State Representative Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby) sponsored passage of legislation that improves access to support for Tennesseans currently enrolled in recovery programs.
House Bill 1721 — which passed in the House chamber by a 92-0 vote tally — helps those on their journey to becoming productive citizens by allowing judges involved in individual cases to use discretion as it relates to extending the duration that a hardship license is valid.
Under current law, hardship licenses are only valid for a period of up to six months. However, House Bill 1721 could extend their duration to 12-18 months for individuals who are committed to successfully completing recovery programs.
Evidence suggests that many enrolled in these types of plans require anywhere from 12-18 months in order to properly finish them.
“I am grateful that this initiative will enable more of our citizens to utilize available tools in order to move from a lifetime of dependency to one of independence,” said Representative Faison. “When our citizens have the support they need, as well as a strong desire and work ethic to get their lives back on track, we all benefit.”
For more information about House Bill 1721, please click here.
Jeremy Faison serves as Chairman of the House Government Operations Committee. He is also a member of the House Calendar & Rules Committee, the House Health Committee and Subcommittee, the Joint Government Operations Committee, Joint Government Operations Commerce, Labor, Transportation & Agriculture, Joint Government Operations Education, Health & General Welfare, and the Joint Government Operations Judiciary & Government Subcommittees. Faison lives in Cosby and represents House District 11, which includes Cocke and part of Jefferson and Greene Counties. He can be reached by email at: [email protected] or by calling (615) 741-6871.
