Tennessee Bill Threatens Jobs of Blind Business Owners

A proposed Tennessee bill, HB1066/SB1388, could jeopardize the livelihoods of blind entrepreneurs by altering regulations governing vending contracts. The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Kevin Vaughan and Sen. Bo Watson, would require the Department of Health and Human Services to reassess vending managers after receiving three complaints, potentially displacing over 80 blind vendors and affecting around 225 jobs. Advocates argue the bill contradicts federal law and threatens the successful Tennessee Business Enterprises Program, which is recognized nationally for empowering blind individuals. Additionally, the bill's revisions would allow larger corporations to compete for contracts that were previously prioritized for blind vendors, risking the survival of smaller businesses. The Tennessee Committee of Blind Vendors warns that the bill could lead to significant job losses and eliminate access to health insurance for many, urging lawmakers to reconsider its implications. As the bill approaches a legislative vote, vendors are rallying for support to protect their employment opportunities.