Tennessee House Bill HB2310

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Refer: 2/13/24
• Refer: 3/5/24
• Refer: 4/2/24
• Refer: 4/23/24
• Chaptered: 6/3/24
• Passed: 6/3/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29; Title 36; Title 37; Title 39 and Title 68, relative to prohibited medical procedures.

Impact

The enactment of HB 2310 would impose civil liabilities on individuals who violate the prohibitions set forth by the bill, allowing parents or guardians to seek compensatory and punitive damages, as well as legal fees, against those who infringe upon these new guidelines. This may lead to increased scrutiny and potential litigation against healthcare providers and others involved in the medical care of minors. The bill seeks to redirect how medical procedures related to minors are handled and communicated, emphasizing parental authority and creating a more restrictive environment regarding certain medical choices.

Summary

House Bill 2310 aims to amend various titles of the Tennessee Code Annotated to specifically address prohibited medical procedures concerning unemancipated minors. The bill establishes legal restrictions against the recruitment, harboring, or transportation of minors for obtaining certain medical procedures deemed prohibited under this legislation. It outlines exceptions for parents or legal guardians who are authorized to make healthcare decisions for their children, as well as adults acting with permission from guardians. This highlights a significant shift in the legal landscape regarding the healthcare rights of minors and the responsibilities of guardians within Tennessee.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2310 appears to be divided, reflecting broader national controversies regarding minors' healthcare rights. Supporters likely view the bill as a protective measure for minors, aiming to prevent them from undergoing procedures they believe are harmful or controversial. However, opponents might contend that the bill intrudes into parental rights and the medical needs of children, potentially hindering access to necessary healthcare services. This division illustrates the ongoing debate over the balance of authority between guardians, the state, and medical professionals in regard to youth healthcare decisions.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the discourse surrounding HB 2310 include concerns regarding its implications for medical autonomy and the role of healthcare providers when treating minors. Critics argue that the bill disrupts the nuanced approach needed in medical care that considers the best interests of the child. Furthermore, the potential for civil liability raises questions about the chilling effect this may have on healthcare professionals, who may feel deterred from providing necessary treatments to avoid litigation. The debate encapsulates a tension between safeguarding minors and ensuring adequate medical care.