Tennessee House Bill HB2619

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Refer: 3/19/24
• Refer: 4/3/24
• Chaptered: 5/9/24
• Passed: 5/9/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 40 and Title 41, relative to the department of correction.

Impact

The legislation will likely have notable consequences for healthcare access among incarcerated individuals in Tennessee. By banning state funds for hormone therapy and sex reassignment surgery, the bill alters the landscape of medical care that can be accessed by inmates, especially impacting those seeking transition-related care. Opponents of the bill argue that this represents a denial of necessary medical treatment that can significantly affect the well-being of transgender inmates. Proponents, however, assert that the legislation is a cost-saving measure and reflects a commitment to limiting state expenditures on inmate health care.

Summary

House Bill 2619 proposes significant amendments to the Tennessee Code regarding the Department of Correction, particularly addressing healthcare provisions for inmates. The bill explicitly prohibits the use of state funds for administering hormone replacement therapy and sex reassignment surgery for state inmates. However, it allows for the administration of psychotropic medications if deemed necessary by trained medical personnel. This legislation is aimed at regulating medical treatments provided within correctional facilities, reflecting a specific stance on gender-altering procedures.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2619 appears to be mixed, with advocates for prison reform concerned about the implications for vulnerable populations within the prison system. Supporters emphasize the need for fiscal responsibility and the management of state resources. Meanwhile, critics, including various advocacy groups, consider the bill to be discriminatory, asserting that it undermines the rights and health outcomes of transgender individuals in custody. This has led to heated discussions among lawmakers, mental health professionals, and civil rights advocates.

Contention

Controversy over HB 2619 centers on the balance between administrative cost considerations and the rights of inmates to receive comprehensive medical care. The bill's limitations on healthcare options for transgender inmates have ignited debates about human rights within the correctional system. Many advocates express concerns that failing to provide hormone therapy and surgical options can lead to severe psychological distress and violate inmate rights under existing healthcare mandates. This aspect of the bill highlights ongoing tensions regarding how correctional facilities are expected to support the health and welfare of those they detain.