Tennessee House Bill HB0914

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/21/23
• Refer: 3/29/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37; Title 39; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to neonatal abstinence syndrome.

Impact

If enacted, HB0914 will modify existing laws regarding the custody and welfare of children diagnosed with NAS. The legislation stipulates that for infants under three years diagnosed with NAS, there are mandatory health evaluations, which must be documented and submitted to the Department of Children's Services. This is intended to ensure ongoing health oversight for affected children, potentially preventing further complications associated with their condition.

Summary

House Bill 914 (HB0914) seeks to amend several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). The bill primarily focuses on ensuring that children diagnosed with NAS remain with their parents or guardians under specific conditions set by the court. These conditions include documentation of regular health examinations for the child to monitor their development and overall health during critical early years.

Sentiment

The reception of HB0914 appears mixed among legislators and public groups. Supporters argue that this bill is a proactive step in addressing the needs of children suffering from NAS, providing necessary guidelines for health checks, and supporting families. However, critics may express concerns about the feasibility and implications of enforcing these health checks, as well as the potential burden it places on families and the healthcare system.

Contention

A significant point of contention may arise around the obligations imposed by HB0914 on families and healthcare providers to frequently document health checks for infants diagnosed with NAS. While the intention is to protect the welfare of these children, discussions may also focus on whether this approach strikes an appropriate balance between supervision and the freedom of families to care for their children without excessive state intervention. As with similar legislation, the balance between child protection and family autonomy is likely to be a critical issue moving forward.