Committee approves bill to create Department of Emergency Management, replacing TEMA
March 25, 2026 | 2026 Legislature TN, Tennessee
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Leader Johnson told the committee Senate Bill 22,48 would establish a Department of Emergency Management to replace the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), transfer all existing TEMA contracts, leases, rules and decisions to the new department and update code references. The sponsor emphasized the change does not alter the governor's emergency powers.
The committee considered amendment 016466, which reduced an initial three-year sunset to two years; members adopted the amendment by voice vote. Several senators praised TEMA's recent disaster response work; Senator Sutherland and Senator Crowe commended the agency for its handling of hurricanes and storms and urged continued support.
After discussion the clerk took a roll-call voice vote; the committee reported nine ayes and the bill moved to the finance committee.
The committee considered amendment 016466, which reduced an initial three-year sunset to two years; members adopted the amendment by voice vote. Several senators praised TEMA's recent disaster response work; Senator Sutherland and Senator Crowe commended the agency for its handling of hurricanes and storms and urged continued support.
After discussion the clerk took a roll-call voice vote; the committee reported nine ayes and the bill moved to the finance committee.
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