NASHVILLE, TN – Last week, the Tennessee House of Representatives unanimously approved (96-0) an amended version of HB2147/SB2368, legislation that ensures patients have strong access to effective preventative maintenance and repairs for CRT.

The newly adopted legislation:
• requires Tenncare plans to cover and pay for Preventative Maintenance on CRT wheelchairs at least once per year (a flat reimbursement rate for that service is expected in the coming months);
• establishes right of consumer to self-repair and purchase of certain CRT repair parts directly from the manufacturer; applicable parts are listed in the amended bill;
• implements “service what you sell” for CRT, requiring a CRT provider that sold a wheelchair to a Tennessee consumer to service that equipment (with some exceptions); and
• mandates that provisions go into effect on July 1, 2024.

Concerted Campaign Pays Off with First-of-a-Kind Result
Most notably, this bill marks thefirst time that a Preventative Maintenance provision for CRT with reimbursement has been passed in any state.

This success follows a concerted campaign by Tennessee mobility advocates that began in earnest more than a year ago. AAHomecare’s Laura Williard and Alexis Ward worked with policy leads at Permobil, NSM, Numotion, Quantum, and Sunrise Medical to make an effective case with key Tennessee legislators.

Active engagement from the Tennessee Disability Coalition and effective direct lobbying efforts by John Goetz of Bridge Public Affairs were also critical to moving the bill forward. The credibility and commitment of lead sponsors Rep. Michael Hale and Sen. Bo Watson also brought on widespread support throughout the General Assembly.

The amended bill language can be seen here. Yesterday’s House affirmation follows unanimous Senate approval on Apr. 8 (29-0).  The Governor is expected to sign the measure soon.