State Senator Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville) has been appointed chairman of a key committee in the Tennessee State Senate.    Briggs was appointed chairman of the Senate State and Local Government Committee by Lt. Governor Randy McNally as lawmakers organized the 2021-2022 legislative sessions.

The State and Local Government Committee hears all matters pertaining to state and local governments in general, including utility districts, employees, ordinances, boundary lines, veterans’ affairs, penal and correctional institutions, alcoholic beverages and election laws.

“As a long-time leader in local government, Richard Briggs has the experience and insight to serve this committee well,” Lt. Gov. McNally said.  “A proven and effective chairman, I am confident he will take on this new task and excel. I am proud to appoint him.”

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve in this capacity and the confidence placed in me by the Lt. Governor,” said Sen. Briggs.  “As a former county commissioner, I understand the needs of local governments and the vital role they play in helping our communities thrive and grow.  I look forward to seeing that they have the available resources they need.  I am also excited about the opportunity to help our veterans in this new committee position.   I take seriously the responsibility of providing our veterans with the best our state and country has to offer.”

Briggs formerly served as a colonel in the U.S. Army.

“Our committee has a heavy workload ahead of us this year and I look forward to working with my colleagues to meet the challenges ahead,” he concluded.

Senator Briggs represents part of Knox County in Senate District 7.