Tennessee House Bill HB1309

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Engrossed: 3/21/23
• Enrolled: 3/31/23
• Passed: 4/25/23
• Chaptered: 5/3/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 56, Chapter 7, Part 27, relative to genetic information.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts the legal framework governing life insurance practices in Tennessee by enhancing protections for individuals regarding their genetic information. It aims to prevent discrimination based on genetic predisposition, thereby safeguarding personal privacy and allowing individuals to obtain life insurance without the fear of being penalized for their genetic background. This aligns with ongoing efforts to ensure that genetic data is used ethically and responsibly, particularly in financial contexts such as insurance.

Summary

House Bill 1309 amends the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 56, Chapter 7, Part 27, relating to genetic information and its implications on life insurance. The bill prohibits life insurance providers from canceling coverage based solely on an individual's or their family member's genetic information. Furthermore, it stipulates that insurers cannot require genetic testing as a condition for insurability or demand the complete genome sequencing of DNA, emphasizing the need for informed consent before accessing sensitive medical and genetic data of individuals.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding HB 1309 appears to be supportive, particularly from advocacy groups focused on consumer rights and privacy. Legislators show a consensus on the necessity of protecting individuals from potential discriminatory practices by insurance providers. The bill had favorable traction, evidenced by its passage with a unanimous voting outcome in the House, indicating a collective desire to reinforce protections amidst rising concerns surrounding the use of genetic information.

Contention

While the bill received broad support, there may be underlying concerns regarding the insurance industry's ability to assess risk adequately without access to genetic information. Critics of such policies often argue that without the inclusion of genetic factors, insurers might face increased risk pools that could lead to higher premiums or unsustainable business practices. However, proponents argue that ethical considerations and consumer protections must prioritize individual privacy over corporate interests.