Governor Bill Lee signed legislation expanding eligibility for interment in Tennessee State Veterans Cemeteries, ensuring that more Tennessee service members who honorably served in the Reserve Components, Army National Guard, and Air National Guard receive the recognition and final resting place they have earned through their service.
The new law broadens eligibility for interment in Tennessee State Veterans Cemeteries to include individuals who served honorably in a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces, the Army National Guard, or the Air National Guard for at least eight years collectively, or who were called to service under state orders, regardless of length of service. Eligible individuals are interred in Tennessee State Veterans Cemeteries at no cost, ensuring their service is honored without placing a financial burden on their families.
“This legislation reflects Tennessee’s continued commitment to honoring the men and women who answer the call to serve our state and nation,” said Governor Bill Lee. “Members of the National Guard and Reserve Components play a critical role in protecting our communities, responding to emergencies, and defending our freedoms, and Tennessee is proud to recognize their service and sacrifice.”
The law maintains eligibility for veterans who already qualify under federal standards while extending access to additional Guard and Reserve members whose service may not have previously met federal interment requirements.
The legislation also preserves important safeguards by prohibiting implementation in any manner that would jeopardize federal funding for the construction, expansion, or operation of Tennessee’s State Veterans Cemeteries.
Additionally, eligibility for the interment of spouses, surviving spouses, minor children, and dependent incapacitated children of eligible individuals will continue to be determined in accordance with federal law.
Commissioner Tommy Baker stated, “This law ensures that more Tennessee service members receive the honor and dignity they have earned through their commitment and sacrifice. By recognizing the valuable contributions of our National Guard and Reserve members, Tennessee continues to lead in honoring those who have served.”
To read more about this new law, please visit:
https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default?BillNumber=HB1635&ga=114
To learn more about our state cemeteries and locations, please visit: