The measure would ban residency requirements for police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services workers. Author: Dalisa Robles (WBIR) Updated: 12:31 PM EST March 4, 2021
TENNESSEE, USA On Thursday, the Tennessee State Senate voted to approve Senate Bill 29 which would allow first responders to live where they choose.
The measure, sponsored by State Senator Brian Kelsey (R-Germantown), would ban residency requirements for police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services workers. This bill as amended does not affect Hamilton County, officials said.
Kelsey explained that the bill is a matter of public safety and will allow police and fire departments to recruit top-tier first responder candidates, regardless of where they live. The lawmaker said that it will help the state address a deficit of police officers occurring throughout the country.