RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - State Rep. Bryan Terry, MD, R-Murfreesboro, announced significant health care and workforce accomplishments aimed at strengthening Tennessee’s medical infrastructure and expanding innovative treatment options during the second session of the Tennessee General Assembly.
“As chairman of the House Health Committee, I was committed this session to improving access while ensuring safety, strengthening our health care workforce, and pursuing innovative solutions to some of Tennessee’s most pressing health challenges,” Terry said.
Historic Investment in Medical Education: One of the most significant achievements was a $350 million appropriation in the 2026–27 state budget for a new multi-purpose medical education facility at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis.
“The current medical school facility has served Tennessee for many years, but it no longer reflects the level of innovation and excellence needed to remain competitive in recruiting and training the next generation of physicians,” Terry said. “Ensuring our state is prepared to meet future health care workforce demands made this project a priority.”
The facility is expected to address physician shortages and expand training capacity statewide. Nationwide, physician shortages are projected to reach 100,000 by 2034, according to the Cicero Institute.
“This is a historic investment in Tennessee’s medical workforce pipeline that will impact the state for generations,” said Randy Boyd. “We appreciate Gov. Bill Lee and the General Assembly, as well as Chairman Terry’s leadership, in advancing this project.”
Ibogaine Research Expansion: Terry also championed passage of the Helping Open Pathways to Effective (HOPE) Treatment Act, which authorizes research into ibogaine as a potential treatment for opioid use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and traumatic brain injury.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation estimates approximately 70,000 Tennesseans struggle with opioid addiction. Among veterans, about 7% of men and 13% of women experience PTSD, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
“Tennessee needs solutions, not more statistics when it comes to addiction, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury—especially among our veterans,” Terry said. “The HOPE Treatment Act positions our state to lead in research and reflects our commitment to supporting patients.”
Just days before the bill passed, Donald Trump signed an executive order to accelerate ibogaine research for serious mental illness, directing $50 million in federal funding through ARPA-H to support state-level efforts.
Strengthening the Health Care Workforce: Terry also passed legislation adopting the Respiratory Therapist Interstate Compact, making it easier for licensed respiratory therapists to practice across state lines—particularly benefiting military families and underserved communities.
Additionally, the Tennessee Nursing Education Integrity and Oversight Act was approved, allowing the Tennessee Board of Nursing and the Tennessee Center for Nursing Advancement to update education and practice standards to meet evolving industry needs.
Looking Ahead: As Tennessee continues to grow, Terry emphasized the importance of building a strong and innovative health care system.
“These accomplishments reflect both immediate and long-term solutions,” Terry said. “From investing in future providers to exploring cutting-edge treatments and removing barriers for health care workers, Tennessee is positioning itself as a national leader in health policy.”
The 114th General Assembly adjourned sine die on April 24. The 115th General Assembly will convene on Jan. 12.
Terry represents District 48 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes the eastern half of Rutherford County.
