Kerry Roberts

Kerry Roberts is a Republican member of the Tennessee State Senate, representing the 23rd district, which encompasses several counties including Robertson, Dickson, Cheatham, Humphreys, Hickman, and a portion of Montgomery County. He has been actively serving in this role and has a background that includes both business and public service. In addition to his legislative duties, Roberts has been involved in various community initiatives and has a history in the radio broadcasting industry.

Early life and career

Kerry Roberts was born on September 24, 1961, in Bedford, Indiana. He completed his secondary education at Bloomington High School North, graduating in 1979. Following high school, he pursued higher education at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in 1983.

After completing his degree, Roberts began his professional career in the accounting field, initially working for Touche Ross and Company, which is now known as Deloitte. In 1985, he established his own accounting practice, which he operated until 1990 when he sold the business. That same year, he ventured into retail by opening a chain of bicycle stores. His involvement in the bicycle industry extended beyond retail; he also served as President and Chairman of the National Bicycle Dealers Association. However, the 2010 Tennessee floods significantly impacted his business, leading to the closure of his stores.

In the years following his retail career, Roberts transitioned to a new venture by founding Resource Network LLC, a company that specializes in providing accounting, finance, and technology professionals on a temporary or contract basis. This business reflects his ongoing commitment to the fields of finance and professional services.

Roberts has also been active in community service and awareness efforts. In October 2021, he participated in a fundraising event by cycling 100 miles to raise money and awareness for victims of flooding in Humphreys County. This initiative highlights his engagement with local issues and his willingness to support constituents in need.

Legislative service

Kerry Roberts began his legislative career when he won the Republican primary for Senate District 18 on January 20, 2011, followed by a victory in the general election on March 8, 2011. He served in this capacity until he chose not to seek a full term in 2012. After a brief hiatus, he announced his campaign for re-election in 2014. In a competitive primary election held on August 7, 2014, he secured his position with a plurality of the votes against multiple challengers. Roberts then won the general election on November 4, 2014, defeating his Democratic opponent with a significant majority.

Roberts continued to serve in the Tennessee Senate, running for re-election in subsequent years. In 2018, he faced no opposition in the Republican primary and won re-election in the general election held on November 6, 2018. His electoral success continued in 2022 when he was redistricted to the 23rd district, where he again ran unopposed in both the primary and general elections.

Throughout his tenure, Roberts has held various committee assignments, reflecting his involvement in legislative processes. He has served on the Health, Government Operations, and Environment and Tourism committees, and he was appointed as Secretary of the Health Committee. In January 2019, he was appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee for Government Operations and was reappointed to the Senate Judiciary Committee, indicating a level of trust and responsibility placed upon him by his peers.

Policy focus and district

Kerry Roberts has focused on several key areas during his time in the Tennessee Senate. Notably, he sponsored legislation to create a supplemental insurance program, commonly referred to as a Katie Beckett waiver. This program aims to assist families with children who have complex medical needs, regardless of their income. Tennessee was the last state to adopt this waiver, which was originally initiated by President Ronald Reagan, highlighting Roberts' commitment to addressing healthcare needs for vulnerable populations.

Additionally, Roberts introduced the Fresh Start Act, which seeks to reform the professional licensing process. This legislation aims to prevent licensing authorities from denying applications based on prior criminal convictions unless those convictions are directly related to the profession in question, with certain exceptions for specific felonies. This initiative reflects a broader trend in legislative efforts to promote rehabilitation and reintegration for individuals with criminal histories.

Roberts represents a diverse district that includes various counties, each with its unique needs and concerns. His legislative efforts are informed by the demographics and issues pertinent to his constituents. He has maintained a presence in local media, having transitioned from a weekly radio show to a morning show in Nashville, which allows him to engage with the public and discuss relevant issues facing the state.

In addition to his legislative work, Roberts has been involved in community discussions and has faced challenges, including protests during a special legislative session in 2020. His responses to these events demonstrate his commitment to engaging with constituents and addressing their concerns, even amid controversy.

Overall, Kerry Roberts' career in the Tennessee Senate reflects a blend of business acumen, community involvement, and a focus on legislative initiatives aimed at improving the lives of his constituents. His ongoing service in the state legislature continues to shape the policies affecting the 23rd district and the state of Tennessee as a whole.