Fred Atchley

Fred Atchley (born November 10, 1968) is a retired firefighter and American politician. He is a Republican member of the Tennessee House of Representatives, representing the 12th district since 2025.

Early life, education, and career Fred Atchley was born on November 10, 1968. He graduated from Sevier County High School in Sevierville, before attending graduate academies for law enforcement and firefighting.

Tennessee House of Representatives (2025–present)

Elections In November 2024, Atchley won election to the Tennessee House of Representatives to succeed retiring incumbent Dale Carr.

Tenure In November 2024, a few days after winning his initial election to the General Assembly, Atchley was chosen during Republican party leadership elections to become the freshman floor leader.

In January 2025, Atchley broke from the Republican House majority to vote against a major expansion of the state's school voucher program. Later that year, he sponsored a measure to change the pay schedule for state employees from twice a month to biweekly.

In 2026, alongside Senator Steve Southerland, Atchley sponsored a bill making it a misdemeanor to feed black bears in areas designated by the state. The bill passed both chambers of the General Assembly and was signed into law by Bill Lee on April 14. Atchley additionally sponsored legislation to ban the retail sale of nitrous oxide, an addictive substance commonly used for dental procedures.

Personal life Atchley is married to his wife Angela. He has four children. He is a Baptist and attends the First Baptist Church of Sevierville.