Tennessee House Bill HB1922

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/24
• Refer: 1/25/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Refer: 3/13/24
• Chaptered: 4/29/24
• Passed: 4/29/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 36, Chapter 1, Part 1 and Title 68, Chapter 11, Part 2, relative to the voluntary surrender of an infant.

Impact

The bill's passing would result in significant changes to how the state handles cases of infant surrender. By broadening the definition of acceptable facilities, it supports a more accessible framework for parents in crisis, potentially decreasing the number of unsafe abandonments. The amendments also highlight the responsibilities of emergency communications centers and nursing homes, ensuring they meet specific operational standards to accept newborns safely.

Summary

House Bill 1922 aims to amend the Tennessee Code to enhance provisions related to the voluntary surrender of infants. It outlines specific facilities eligible to receive surrendered infants, including hospitals, nursing homes, and emergency communications centers. The bill seeks to ensure that the facilities are adequately staffed to handle such delicate situations, thereby providing safety and care for newborns who are voluntarily surrendered by their parents.

Sentiment

Overall, sentiment regarding HB1922 appears to be supportive among lawmakers and advocacy groups focused on child welfare. It has been seen as a compassionate response to a serious societal issue, with discussions emphasizing the need for safe options for parents. The intentional focus on improving access to infant safety devices and resources resonates positively within the community, aiming to provide peace of mind to struggling parents.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding the bill include concerns about the potential strain on nursing homes and emergency services to implement these new policies effectively. Critics fear that without proper funding and support, the operational changes could lead to overwhelm or inadequate care. Furthermore, debates have arisen regarding the best means to educate the public about these provisions to prevent misunderstanding and ensure that parents know their options for surrendering newborns responsibly.