Welfare - As introduced, requires the department of human services to annually identify federal waivers it deems necessary to alleviate federal regulatory limitations that inhibit the department's ability to timely review and approve applications and deliver benefits for the food assistance program and to submit, no later than October 31 of each year, as applicable, applications for such waivers; requires the department to annually submit a report describing any waiver applications submitted and the status of such applications, and including recommendations for statutory changes needed to facilitate efficient processing and delivery of such benefits. - Amends TCA Title 71, Chapter 5, Part 3.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Andrew Farmer

Requires Tennessee to annually identify federal regulatory barriers in food assistance, request federal waivers by October 31, and report on applications and needed state law changes.

H. Placed on Regular Calendar for 4/20/2026

#welfare

Legislative bill overview

HB 684 requires Tennessee's Department of Human Services to annually identify federal regulatory barriers that slow food assistance application processing and benefit delivery, then submit waiver requests to federal authorities by October 31 each year. The department must also submit annual reports detailing waiver applications, their status, and recommendations for state law changes to improve efficiency.

Why is this important

Food assistance program delays directly affect vulnerable populations' access to basic nutrition support. By systematically identifying and requesting federal waivers, the state aims to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks that prevent timely benefit distribution. The required reporting creates accountability and documents what regulatory changes might help the state operate more efficiently.

Potential points of contention

Federal-state friction: States requesting waivers may face resistance from federal agencies; unclear whether this process guarantees approval or expedites results

Cost implications: The bill doesn't specify funding for additional department staff needed to identify barriers, submit applications, and produce annual reports

Scope of "necessary" waivers: The bill is vague about which waivers the department deems necessary, giving significant discretion without clear criteria or legislative oversight of waiver selections