Governor signs executive order to help Tennesseans affected by storm damage

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Gov. Bill Lee has signed an executive order to bring relief to Tennessee residents affected by devastating weekend storms.

The storms produced deadly tornadoes that left the state and other states reeling. At least four Tennesseans have died. Gov. Lee says the state remains committed to helping those affected.

“The impact of severe weather in Tennessee and our neighboring states has been devastating,” Lee said. “We remain committed to providing the necessary resources to assist Tennesseans as they recover from this tragic loss.”

Executive Order #94 declares a state of emergency to help relief efforts. It will do the following:

• Allows individuals to aid in storm damage cleanup;
• Suspends restrictions on vehicles transporting emergency supplies to areas affected by severe weather;
• Expedites special transportation permit approval for those providing services related to severe weather;
• Gives commercial motor vehicle operators providing emergency assistance temporary exception from federal rules and regulations;
• Waives state residency requirements for individuals to participate in nutrition and child wellbeing programs;
• Directs insurance companies to assist policyholders experiencing weather-related losses and allows insurance professionals licensed in other states to provide service related to severe weather;
• Permits health care professionals licensed in other states to provide health care services in Tennessee related to severe weather;
• Allows pharmacists to dispense an extra 30-day supply of maintenance prescriptions as needed in response to severe weather;
• Permits issuance of temporary contractor licenses to assist victims of severe weather;
• Gives flexibilities for vacation lodging services to provide accommodations to victims of severe weather;
• Waives fees for duplicate driver’s or photo identification licenses;
• Waives state and county clerk fees for the issuance of lost or damaged motor vehicle titles;
• Provides flexibilities for non-resident security guards and officers to secure affected areas; and
• Encourages state agencies to assist individuals affected by mail disruption and displacement.

ALSO READ: Madison, Tenn. school closed after devastating storms: 'The roof is just totally gone'

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