TN SB1613

State veterans' homes must be eligible for and receive VA per diem payments for qualified residents under federal regulations.

Veterans' homes may expand beyond skilled nursing to provide and receive payment for other support and care services for honorably discharged veterans as authorized by state or federal law.

Site selection for veterans' homes must give preference to publicly owned land, with land purchases permitted only when suitable public land is unavailable.

Contracting authority is clarified to include contracts for both home operations and service provision, with real property contracts requiring advance approval by the state building commission and the board.

Takes effect immediately upon becoming law.