Tennessee Introduces $100M HEAL Program for Hurricane Helene Recovery
Governor Bill Lee announces no-interest loans to assist counties with debris removal and water system repairs.
- Tennessee's HEAL program allocates $65 million for debris removal and $35 million for water and wastewater repairs.
- The funding comes from the state's Medicaid program, TennCare, emphasizing health and welfare support.
- Governor Lee was inspired to create the program after discussing immediate financial concerns with a local mayor.
- Eligible counties include Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, and others severely impacted by the hurricane.
- Hurricane Helene has resulted in 17 deaths in Tennessee, with ongoing efforts to repair damaged infrastructure.