Tennessee House Bill HB0253

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/21/23
• Refer: 3/21/23
• Refer: 3/28/23
• Chaptered: 5/3/23
• Passed: 5/3/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36 and Title 39, relative to parentage fraud.

Impact

If enacted, HB0253 would classify parentage fraud as a Class B misdemeanor, emphasizing the state's commitment to protecting the rights of biological parents and ensuring children know their true parentage. This change in law highlights the importance of transparency in parental relationships, allowing biological parents to exercise their legal rights and responsibilities. It also proposes significant implications for inheritance laws and the right of children to know their family's medical history, potentially fostering stability in family units.

Summary

House Bill 0253 proposes amendments to Tennessee Code Annotated, particularly in Titles 36 and 39, to address the issue of parentage fraud. The essence of the bill is to legally define what constitutes parentage fraud, focusing on individuals who attempt to misrepresent or mislead the establishment of parental rights over a child, particularly in situations where there's a clear understanding that the individual is not the biological parent. This legislation aims to safeguard the integrity of familial relationships and ensure the biological parent retains their rights.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB0253 appears to be generally supportive among legislators who value the protection of parental rights and the well-being of children. The bill has been viewed as a necessary step towards preventing deceitful claims of parentage that could undermine legal and familial relationships. However, there may be concerns regarding how this law will be enforced and the conditions under which fraud is determined, sparking discussions about potential unintended consequences.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the definitions and criteria that will determine what constitutes parentage fraud. Opponents may worry about how this legislation could intersect with cases involving domestic violence or other sensitive situations, such as adoption. Additionally, debates may arise regarding the implications of labeling individuals as committing parentage fraud when complex personal or social issues are at play, which may require a nuanced understanding of familial structures. Overall, while the bill aims to address significant issues, the complexities surrounding its implementation may lead to varying opinions among stakeholders.