Tennessee House Bill HB0318

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/25
• Refer: 2/3/25
• Refer: 2/26/25
• Refer: 4/9/25
• Chaptered: 5/13/25
• Passed: 5/13/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 1, Part 4, relative to state government.

Impact

The passage of HB0318 is anticipated to reinforce the legal autonomy of the state in matters relating to public health and governance, particularly against perceived overreach from international organizations. Supporters argue that it preserves state rights and provides clarity on the limits of authority that external entities can exert over state legislation. This could set a precedent within Tennessee law regarding the enforcement of mandates that may arise from public health crises or other emergencies.

Summary

House Bill 0318 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated by establishing that the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations (UN), and the World Economic Forum (WEF) have no jurisdiction in the state. It specifies that state entities cannot be compelled to enforce mandates from these organizations, particularly concerning public health measures such as masks, vaccines, and medical testing. The bill seeks to ensure that any requirements or mandates from these bodies do not impact the laws or actions taken within Tennessee.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB0318 is notably polarized. Proponents of the bill praise it for promoting state sovereignty and protecting citizens from the imposition of mandates that they argue could infringe on individual freedoms and state autonomy. Conversely, critics express concerns that this bill may undermine public health efforts during a crisis, potentially leaving the state unable to respond effectively to health warnings or guidelines from established health organizations.

Contention

Points of contention in the discussions around the bill include its implications for future public health responses and the potential legal conflicts it may create with established health protocols during emergencies. Opponents of the legislation fear that it could limit necessary public health measures and encourage a disregard for scientifically-backed guidelines, ultimately risking the health and safety of residents in Tennessee.