Tennessee House Bill HB0169

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 1/27/25
• Refer: 3/5/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 56 and Title 71, relative to contraception.

Impact

Should HB 0169 pass, it would impact existing statutes within the realm of healthcare and family planning in Tennessee. The redefinitions and amendments are poised to reshape how health benefit plans cover contraceptive services. Specifically, the bill clarifies the responsibilities of health insurance entities concerning the provision of contraceptives, which could enhance access to these essential health services for residents.

Summary

House Bill 0169 aims to amend certain sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated relating to contraception and health insurance provisions. The bill brings specific changes to definitions associated with contraceptives, health benefit plans, and health insurance entities. One of the notable changes is the extension of the implementation deadline from July 1, 2024, to January 1, 2026. This suggests a deliberate pacing in enacting the revisions to provide time for stakeholders to adjust to the new regulations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 0169 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that the bill represents a step towards improving healthcare access, especially concerning reproductive health and contraceptives. However, detractors may express concern over how changes might affect various insurance practices and the possible confusion around insurance coverage for contraceptive services. The discussion reflects a broader discourse on reproductive rights and access to health care in Tennessee.

Contention

There are potential points of contention regarding the interpretations of how this bill alters existing regulations of contraceptives under state insurance laws. Debate may arise over the inclusion and exclusion criteria set for healthcare benefits, as well as the potential financial implications for insurance providers and consumers. As the bill seeks to navigate a sensitive topic, its implications may inspire discussions about women's health rights and the role of state governance in personal healthcare decisions.