Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB0449

Introduced
1/29/25  
Engrossed
3/17/25  
Enrolled
4/16/25  
Passed
4/24/25  

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to reproductive health care.

Impact

The legislation has notable implications for state laws pertaining to reproductive health. It guarantees a legal right for individuals to seek fertility treatments and contraception, setting clear boundaries against any potential prohibitions. Notably, while the bill establishes these rights, it does not create an entitlement to financial coverage for such services. This distinction may influence both healthcare providers and patients regarding what treatments are available and the financial implications linked to them.

Summary

Senate Bill 449, formally known as the Fertility Treatment and Contraceptive Protection Act, seeks to amend the Tennessee Code to explicitly establish the rights of individuals to engage in fertility treatments and utilize contraceptives. The bill clarifies that the state cannot prohibit activities related to fertility treatment and contraception, which includes methods like artificial insemination and assisted reproductive technology. By enacting this legislation, Tennessee aims to create a supportive framework for individuals seeking reproductive health options.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 449 has been mixed, with advocates arguing that it is essential for protecting reproductive health rights. Supporters believe it actively safeguards against restrictive measures that could hinder access to fertility and contraceptive services. Conversely, critics may express concerns over the implications of allowing widespread access to fertility treatments without state support for reimbursement, potentially leaving many unable to afford necessary services.

Contention

Debate around SB 449 has highlighted fundamental issues regarding healthcare access and reproductive rights. Critics may argue that while the bill promotes necessary rights, the lack of provisions for financial support could lead to disparities in access. Furthermore, the bill's passage may trigger further discussions about the balance between individual rights in reproductive health and the state's role in funding these medical services.

Companion Bills

TN HB0533

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to reproductive health care.

Previously Filed As

TN SB0762

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

TN HB0829

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

TN HB1626

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.

TN SB1590

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.

TN SB1918

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37; Title 39; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to abortion.

TN HB2227

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 37; Title 39; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to abortion.

TN SB0745

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 29; Title 33; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 53; Title 56; Title 62; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to abortion.

TN HB0883

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 29; Title 33; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 53; Title 56; Title 62; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to abortion.

TN SB1804

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to contraceptives.

TN HB1943

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to contraceptives.

Similar Bills

ME LD163

An Act to Require Health Insurance Coverage for Federally Approved Nonprescription Oral Hormonal Contraceptives and Nonprescription Emergency Contraceptives

MS HB1154

The Right to Contraception Act; create.

IA SF2135

A bill for an act relating to the right to contraception.

WI SB365

Statutory right to contraception.

WI AB610

Waivers from immunization requirements at institutions of higher education.

WI AB366

Statutory right to contraception.

AZ SB1429

Contraception; rights; limits.

AZ SB1362

Contraception; rights; limits.