Tennessee Lawmakers and Advocates Push for Insurance Reform

Bills aim to ensure patients receive timely, appropriate treatment without delays or denials

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Lawmakers, patients, and healthcare providers gathered at the Tennessee Capitol to demand changes to insurance practices that they say are delaying critical care. The event, hosted by state representatives Dan Howell and Bo Watson, addressed bills that would reform the insurance system to prioritize patient care over corporate interests.

Why it matters

This push for insurance reform in Tennessee highlights growing concerns across the country about insurance companies denying or delaying coverage for necessary medical treatments. Patients and providers are advocating for a healthcare system that puts care before profits.

The details

The speakers at the event called for reforms to ensure patients receive timely and appropriate treatment without unnecessary delays or denials from insurance companies. They argued that Tennessee providers and patients deserve a healthcare system that prioritizes care over corporate interests.

  • The event was held on Wednesday at the Tennessee Capitol.

The players

Dan Howell

A Republican state representative from Cleveland, Tennessee.

Bo Watson

A Republican state representative from Hixson, Tennessee.

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What they’re saying

“I hope that Tennessee can lead the wave across the United States, because we've led the wave in many other areas. I hope this will be a beginning of leading other states in taking action.”

— Dan Howell, State Representative (wsmv.com)

What’s next

The lawmakers and advocates are pushing for the passage of bills that would reform insurance practices in Tennessee to prioritize patient care.

The takeaway

This push for insurance reform in Tennessee reflects a growing national movement to hold insurance companies accountable and ensure patients receive the care they need without unnecessary delays or denials.