State Representatives Timothy Hill and Jeremy Faison’s Legislation to Return Millions of Bridge Construction Dollars to Counties across the State Passes House Of Representatives with Unanimous Support

Legislation sponsored by State Representative Timothy Hill (R–Blountville) and State Representative Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby) to return millions of dollars back to Tennessee taxpayers in the form of bridge infrastructure repair projects passed the full House of Representatives this week with unanimous support from state lawmakers.

The bill, which changes the way the state currently manages its State Aid Bridge Grant Program, will allow millions in funding set aside by the state to now be used in the form of direct expenditures to upgrade, repair, and rehabilitate bridges that have fallen in disrepair over the years.

Currently, in order to receive funding through the Bridge Grant Program, a 20% local match must be made. However, because many local governments cannot afford the match, a large percentage of the bridge funding set aside by the state has gone unused.

This legislation reduces the local match percentage to only 2%, ensuring that local governments can now afford the grant funding and are not burdened by excessive infrastructure expenses.

“This new law allows Sullivan, Carter, and Johnson Counties to have direct access to much needed bridge repair money,” said Representative Hill. “This money is already in an account with our name on it—this legislation simply allows the funding to finally be used. With the help of my colleagues in the House, we are cutting government red tape while also working to help people at home.”

“Keeping Money local is one of my main priorities,” Said Representative Faison. “I was proud to be one of the sponsors for this legislation because I know it will certainly benefit Cocke, Greene, and Jefferson County.”

In total, this legislation will unlock $1,189,392.25 in funding for Cocke County, $326,582.57 for Greene County, and $944,792.43 for Jefferson County.