House Bill 684 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 71-5-318, by removing subsections (b) and (c) and replacing them with new provisions. The new language mandates that the Department of Human Services annually identify necessary federal waivers to alleviate regulatory limitations and submit applications for these waivers by October 31 each year. Additionally, the department is required to report its findings, waiver applications, and recommendations for statutory changes to relevant legislative committees by December 31 each year.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section that establishes a process for inmates preparing for release to apply for food assistance. It requires the Commissioner of Human Services to provide a form application for food assistance to inmates, which includes options for declining to apply and documenting their reasons. The Department of Correction is tasked with distributing these applications and collecting completed forms. Starting January 15, 2027, the Commissioner of Correction must submit an annual report detailing the number of applications completed, declined, and approved, as well as the reasons for declining. The bill also authorizes both commissioners to create rules to implement these changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-5-318
Amended with SA0977 -- 04/14/2026: 71-5-318