Tennessee House Bill HB0027

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/9/24
• Refer: 1/16/25
• Failed: 3/11/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 20; Title 29; Title 37; Title 39; Title 49; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to reproductive health care.

Impact

If enacted, HB 0027 would significantly reshape the landscape of reproductive health legislation in Tennessee, effectively codifying rights related to contraceptive use and abortion access. The bill not only reinforces the rights to reproductive autonomy but also seeks to nullify state policies that may infringe upon these rights. This could impact various existing laws and regulations, potentially leading to a more favorable environment for individuals seeking reproductive health services in the state, irrespective of political and social pressures that might otherwise limit access.

Summary

House Bill 0027, known as the 'Reproductive Freedom Act', aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated in relation to reproductive health care. The bill asserts that every individual has a fundamental right to make decisions regarding their reproductive health, including but not limited to the right to access contraceptives, continue a pregnancy, and undergo abortion procedures. This legislation is designed to reinforce the rights of individuals to make personal health decisions without undue interference from the state, and it explicitly states that a fertilized egg, embryo, or fetus does not have independent rights under state laws.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 0027 is largely supportive among advocates for reproductive rights while facing opposition from conservative factions and anti-abortion groups. Supporters view the bill as a crucial step toward ensuring comprehensive reproductive healthcare access and protecting individual rights against potential legislative restrictions. Conversely, critics argue that such measures could lead to increased abortions and diminish the emphasis on prenatal care and fostering life, seeing the bill as a threat to the legal and moral frameworks surrounding reproductive issues.

Contention

Debate over HB 0027 has highlighted the ongoing conflict between advocates of reproductive freedom and those who favor restrictions on abortion. Notable points of contention include the definition of rights concerning reproductive health and the implications of recognizing autonomous decision-making in light of state interests. There are concerns that the bill, while affirming rights, could create potential legal challenges regarding the scope of healthcare provisions and the responsibilities of healthcare providers within the state.