Governor Bill Lee has signed legislation that expands eligibility for burial in Tennessee State Veterans Cemeteries, allowing more honorable service members from the Reserve Components, Army National Guard, and Air National Guard to receive a final resting place at no cost to their families. The new law extends this honor to individuals who served collectively for at least eight years in these branches, or who were called to service under state orders regardless of their length of service.

While maintaining eligibility for veterans who already qualify under federal standards, the law broadens access for guardsmen and reservists who previously fell outside federal requirements, while explicitly ensuring that these changes will not jeopardize any federal funding for state cemetery operations. Furthermore, the interment eligibility for spouses, surviving spouses, and dependent children remains aligned with federal law.

Both Governor Lee and Commissioner Tommy Baker emphasized that this legislation underscores Tennessee’s commitment to recognizing the critical role, sacrifices, and valuable contributions of National Guard and Reserve members.