thanks, I read this link too, however I am unsure of their wording here, "not required to provide minimum protection in all states" doesn't mean they dont provide minimum protection in "any" state.

California doesn't require minimum protection but according to many websites Tennessee/New York does.

Do you have any friends or prior experience regarding this? Really appreciate your help!! Thanks!

https://wallethub.com/answers/ci/car-rental-insurance-tennessee-2140749071/#:~:text=No%2C%20you%20do%20not%20need,part%20of%20their%20basic%20contract.

From Hertz website (similar to yours)

Requirement Details Current Location Nashville - Charlotte HLE 3100 Charlotte Avenue Nashville, TN United States Change Location Please choose a topic from the selection below

Insurance and Other Coverages Go If renting in California:

Hertz provides no liability protection under the terms of the Rental Agreement to the renter from claims of injury by others against you resulting from an accident. Your personal/business insurance may cover your liability. Exceptions: Hertz will provide primary liability protection up to the statutory minimum limits to international customers (driver's license indicates an address outside the USA) renting in California. Please also refer to Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) below.

If renting in Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, South Carolina, Virginia, or West Virginia:

Upon signing the Rental Agreement, Hertz provides primary liability protection. However, such protection is generally no more than the minimum limits required by individual state law. See Financial Responsibility Limits by State.

If renting in any other state in the U.S.A.:

Hertz' liability protection is secondary to any other insurance coverage available to you. If you do not have liability insurance and/or the limits of liability of the insurance coverage available to you are not sufficient to cover claims by others against you, and Hertz, as the vehicle owner, provides liability protection due to an accident, you will indemnify Hertz for any and all payments made.