(April 13, 2023) — Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative representatives celebrated the state’s adoption of Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 10th where state leaders codified the day into state law. Tennessee became the first state to formally adopt an appreciation day, which will honor lineworkers for their service on the second Monday of April each year.
Lineworkers across the state gathered at the State Capitol and were honored by members of the General Assembly. State Senator Paul Bailey and Representative Clark Boyd sponsored the bill and welcomed MLEC to the Old Supreme Court Chambers.
During the ceremony, Humphreys County Lead Lineworker Michael Bradley accepted the finalized bill from Rep. Boyd on behalf of the electric co-ops present. MLEC CEO and President Keith Carnahan, who also serves as the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association Board of Trustees Chairman, then made a presentation to Sen. Bailey and Rep. Boyd. He was later joined by Lewis County District Manager Jason Graves as well as Hickman County Apprentice Lineworker Josh Gaspard and Lewis County Lead Lineworker Shane Lowery.
“Lineworkers will now be recognized annually for what is considered as one of the most dangerous jobs in America,” Carnahan said. “Their sacrifices to provide safe and reliable energy regardless of the circumstances deserves recognition, and it was an honor to be a part of this historic day.”
“Safe and reliable energy is a critical part of Tennessee’s economy,” Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association CEO Mike Knotts said. “Lineworkers are the guardians of that infrastructure. Their tireless efforts, often in the face of extreme weather conditions and challenging environments, keep the lights on and our homes, businesses and communities powered. We owe a debt of gratitude to these brave men and women who work so hard to ensure our safety and well-being.”
MLEC is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric utility serving more than 35,000 meters in Hickman, Houston, Humphreys, Lewis and Perry counties. We connect our communities to a better quality of life through power, broadband and committed service. Learn more at mlec.com.
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