Panel tasked with improving health and well-being for Tennesseans
(NASHVILLE) — State Representative Ron Gant (R-Rossville) today announced that he will serve on a new Wellness Caucus created by members of the Tennessee General Assembly and in collaboration with the Governor’s Foundation for Health and Wellness.
The caucus is chaired by State Representative Ryan Williams (R-Cookeville) and Senator Bo Watson (R-Hixson). It 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 overall health outcomes.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for my colleagues and I to gain a new perspective into some of the health issues that are currently impacting the residents of our community,” said Representative Gant. “I am excited to prioritize their health and well-being as part of this exciting, new initiative, and I look forward to achieving results that will improve the quality of life for all Tennesseans.”
For more information about the Governor’s Foundation for Health & Wellness, please visit http://healthierTN.com.
Ron Gant serves as Assistant Majority Floor Leader. He is also a member of the House Health Committee and the House Calendar and Rules Committee, as well as the House Insurance & Banking Sub and Full Committees. Gant lives in Rossville and represents House District 94, which includes Fayette, McNairy, and part of Hardeman County. He can be reached by email at: rep.ron.gant@capitol.tn.gov or by calling (615) 741-6890.
