Tennessee House Bill HB0164

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/25
• Refer: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/19/25
• Refer: 3/25/25
• Refer: 4/1/25
• Refer: 4/7/25
• Chaptered: 5/13/25
• Passed: 5/13/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4 and Title 63, relative to professions.

Impact

The passage of HB0164 is expected to have significant implications for state law, particularly concerning the practices of both chiropractors and veterinarians. By creating a framework for animal chiropractic, the bill allows for the establishment of educational and certification requirements for those wishing to practice in this area. This change aims to improve the quality of care provided to animals while also ensuring that practitioners are well-educated, thereby potentially reducing malpractice and enhancing the safety of the practice overall.

Summary

House Bill 0164 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 4 and Title 63, to introduce regulation and certification standards for animal chiropractic practices. The bill defines 'animal chiropractic' and specifies the boundaries within which a chiropractic physician may operate regarding animal treatment without encroaching on veterinary medicine. By establishing clear definitions and guidelines, HB0164 seeks to legitimize animal chiropractic as a recognized practice under Tennessee law, enhancing the legitimacy of practitioners in this emerging field.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB0164 appears to be generally supportive among chiropractic practitioners and advocates for animal welfare. Proponents argue that the bill is a positive step forward in recognizing and regulating a growing field that can benefit animal health. However, there may be concerns from traditional veterinary professionals about the encroachment of chiropractic practices into areas they believe should remain exclusively under veterinary control. The discussions suggest a cautious optimism, tempered with the need for clear delineation between chiropractic care and veterinary medicine.

Contention

Notable points of contention concerning HB0164 revolve around the potential overlap between animal chiropractic and veterinary practices. Critics might express apprehension about the implications of chiropractic professionals providing treatments that they argue could intervene in areas traditionally managed by veterinarians. The bill's content indicates that while chiropractic physicians will have the authority to provide specific manipulative therapies, they are explicitly prohibited from performing surgery, dispensing medication, or practicing veterinary medicine outside of agreed boundaries. This limitation is crucial in addressing concerns about professional jurisdiction and ensuring client safety.