Tennessee Senate Bill SB0359

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/25
• Engrossed: 3/17/25
• Enrolled: 4/21/25
• Passed: 5/2/25
• Chaptered: 5/13/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63, relative to healthcare provider licensing.

Impact

The proposed changes would affect how healthcare providers are licensed in Tennessee. The bill also stipulates that private advocacy orders will remain confidential unless disciplinary actions arise from non-compliance. This amendment will reduce public visibility into licensing decisions while allowing for more consideration of practitioners' unique circumstances. The intent is to promote a supportive environment for healthcare professionals, particularly those dealing with personal challenges that could interfere with their practice.

Summary

Senate Bill 359 aims to amend Tennessee's Code Annotated, particularly relating to healthcare provider licensing. The bill introduces the concept of a private advocacy order, which allows the licensing board to issue licenses conditionally to healthcare practitioners requiring them to maintain advocacy of a peer assistance program. This measure seeks to enable practitioners who may need support to qualify for licensure while ensuring they adhere to ethical and professional standards in their practice. The provisions of the bill emphasize a tailored approach to licensing based on individual circumstances of applicants, balancing professional accountability with support mechanisms.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around SB 359 appears to lean towards support for providing additional resources and leniency for healthcare providers needing assistance. Proponents argue that the bill represents a compassionate approach in addressing the needs of practitioners while maintaining regulatory standards. However, some potential concerns have been raised regarding the lack of transparency and public knowledge related to private advocacy orders, which opponents believe could undermine accountability within the healthcare profession.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between supporting healthcare practitioners and ensuring patient safety and accountability. Some members of the legislative body may express concern over the implications of confidentiality clauses and whether they might obscure problematic behaviors. The discussion around these issues indicates a need for establishing clear guidelines about how private advocacy orders are monitored and enforced to ensure they do not become a loophole for practitioners failing to meet professional standards.