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NASHVILLE — State Sen. Rusty Crowe (R-Johnson City) has secured $100,000 in the 2025-26 Tennessee state budget to support the Tennessee State Guard, while also advancing major legislation aimed at disaster relief and caregiving assistance across the state.

The $100,000 appropriation for the all-volunteer Tennessee State Guard is included in the $59.8 billion budget passed by the General Assembly on April 16. The funds represent a dedicated line item in the Military Department’s budget and mark a milestone in support for the Guard’s mission.

“As an Army veteran, I was honored to stand alongside Rep. Jay Reedy, also a proud U.S. Army veteran, to secure funding for the Tennessee State Guard,” Crowe said. “These men and women are Tennessee’s own militia — reporting directly to the governor, standing ready as our state’s defense force, and providing critical support to the National Guard. Whether responding to devastating floods or natural disasters, the State Guard has been instrumental in saving lives and aiding emergency efforts.”

The Tennessee State Guard was established in 1941 and reactivated in 1985. It serves as the state’s official defense force, assisting both the National Guard and civilian authorities during emergencies. It is commanded by Brig. Gen. Kevin Stewart.

The broader state budget includes priorities such as public safety, education, infrastructure, rural healthcare and Hurricane Helene recovery. Tennessee maintains the third-lowest tax burden in the U.S. and holds the highest bond rating from all three major credit agencies.

In addition to securing funds for the State Guard, Crowe passed legislation creating the Hurricane Helene Interest Payment Fund. The $110 million fund will help counties affected by the federally declared disaster pay loan charges associated with recovery borrowing.

“The counties I represent have had to borrow millions to rebuild,” Crowe said. “This fund will help cover the cost of expensive loan charges, easing the financial burden on local governments.”

Crowe also advanced SB 654, extending the state’s Alzheimer’s and Dementia Respite Care (ADR) program through Dec. 31, 2026. The program provides in-home and community-based support through regional aging agencies. The extension was inspired by legislation drafted by Jackson Noland, a Vanderbilt student and son of ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland, in honor of his grandparents.

“Jackson’s work gave us a pathway to continue vital care for families who rely on ADR services,” Crowe said. “We’ll continue working next year on broader caregiver support legislation.”

Crowe said the continuation of the ADR program and the advancement of caregiver aid reflect the General Assembly’s commitment to serving Tennessee’s most vulnerable residents.

“These initiatives are about honoring service, protecting communities and caring for those who care for others,” he said.