Panel tasked with improving health in Tennessee
(NASHVILLE) — House Republican Caucus Chairman Ryan Williams (R-Cookeville) today was named Co-Chairman of a new Wellness Caucus created by the members of the Tennessee General Assembly and in collaboration with the Governor’s Foundation for Health and Wellness.
The caucus consists of 37 members — including 28 Republicans — from both the House and Senate who will study and propose new solutions to important health and wellness issues in communities across the state.
While Nashville is considered a healthcare hub for our entire nation, Tennessee still remains one of the least healthy states in the country. Approximately one in four adults smoke, and one in five high school students uses tobacco. Additionally, 33 percent of the state’s population is classified as obese, and type-2 diabetes and high blood pressure are at near-epidemic levels in all regions of the state.
Caucus members will help shape future public policy so that Tennesseans impacted by some of these adverse health conditions are able to make lifestyle changes that will improve their health and overall quality of life.
“As a former Health Subcommittee Chairman, and as a husband and father of two, I understand the importance and benefits of maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle,” said Chairman Williams. “Along with Senator Bo Watson, I am honored to lead this impressive group of men and women as we work to help those who are dealing with adverse health conditions improve their overall well-being.”
For more information about the Governor’s Foundation for Health and Wellness, please visit http://healthierTN.com.
Ryan Williams serves as Chairman of the House Republican Caucus. He also serves as a member of the House Finance, Ways & Means Committee and Subcommittee, as well as the House Government Operations, House Health, and the House Calendar & Rules Committees. Williams lives in Cookeville and represents House District 42, which includes a portion of Putnam County. He can be reached by email at Rep.Ryan.Williams@capitol.tn.gov or by calling (615) 741-1875.
