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HB 2539

Health Care - As introduced, removes provisions relative to a report that was due by December 15, 2022, from the department of health concerning remote use of the special supplemental food program for women, infants, and children. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 8; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 48; Title 49; Title 52; Title 53; Title 55; Title 56; Title 62; Title 63 and Title 68.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by William Lamberth

Tennessee bill removes WIC program remote-access reporting requirement, reducing transparency on nutrition assistance accessibility for low-income families.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HB 2539

Legislative bill overview

HB 2539 removes a requirement for the Tennessee Department of Health to submit a report by December 15, 2022, regarding remote use of the WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) special supplemental food program. The bill amends multiple Tennessee code titles related to health, welfare, and administrative procedures, though the core action centers on eliminating this specific reporting obligation.

Why is this important

The WIC program serves low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children with nutrition assistance and is a federally-funded safety net program affecting thousands of Tennessee families. Removing a reporting requirement about remote program access could affect transparency regarding how accessible the program is to beneficiaries, particularly those in rural or underserved areas who might rely on remote services.

Potential points of contention

  • Reduced accountability: Eliminating reporting requirements decreases public oversight of program implementation and accessibility improvements
  • Timing concerns: The report deadline (December 15, 2022) has already passed, raising questions about whether this is routine housekeeping or addresses a missed deadline with consequences
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill amends 13 Tennessee code titles, suggesting broader changes than the introduction describes, which lacks clear detail about additional modifications

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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