Tennessee Senate Bill SB1590

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/20/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 20; Title 37; Title 39; Title 49; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to reproductive health care.

Impact

If enacted, SB 1590 would significantly alter existing statutes regarding reproductive health and health care provisions in Tennessee. It seeks to prohibit the state from interfering with individuals' reproductive choices and would prevent any criminalization of actions related to such choices. By doing so, the bill aims to ensure that state actors cannot restrict access to reproductive health care services, thus reinforcing the legal framework surrounding reproductive rights and access within the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 1590, known as the 'Fundamental Right to Reproductive Health Care Act,' aims to establish reproductive rights within Tennessee by protecting individuals' rights to make decisions about their reproductive health. The bill amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to emphasize that every person has the fundamental right to utilize or refuse reproductive health services, including contraception and abortion. Furthermore, it asserts that a fertilized egg, embryo, or fetus does not have independent rights under state law, framing reproductive health care as a matter of personal autonomy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 1590 is deeply polarized. Supporters argue that the bill is a crucial step forward in protecting reproductive rights and ensuring that individual autonomy is respected. They believe it will empower individuals to make informed choices regarding their reproductive health without state interference. Conversely, opponents of the bill express concerns about potential implications for societal values and moral considerations surrounding abortion and reproductive health. They view the legislation as a significant departure from existing norms, which could provoke further political and social contention.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding SB 1590 include the balance between state intervention and personal freedoms in reproductive health choices. Critics argue that while the bill aims to provide protections, it may also encourage a broader debate on reproductive ethics, particularly regarding the rights of the unborn. Key stakeholders, including advocacy groups and political factions, may further scrutinize how this legislation aligns with or contradicts current health care policies statewide.