Tennessee House Bill HB2173

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 47; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to medications approved by the federal food and drug administration.

Impact

If enacted, HB2173 would directly affect Tennessee's regulatory framework concerning pharmaceuticals and medical devices. By simplifying the process through which individuals can contest notices about their medications, the bill could potentially expedite the legal proceedings involved in such cases. This, in turn, may lead to better accessibility to approved medications, which could benefit patients relying on specific drug therapies. The amendments signify a shift towards a more streamlined approach to addressing disputes over medication legality.

Summary

House Bill 2173 focuses on amending various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to medications approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). The primary aim of this bill is to clarify the process surrounding the legal possession and use of these medications, particularly in how individuals may contest notices regarding their status. Specifically, the bill will eliminate a subsection that previously outlined the process for requesting a hearing when a person believes their drugs or devices are not subject to regulatory oversight.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the bill may raise concerns among stakeholders. Opponents might argue that adjusting how disputes are handled could lead to complications in ensuring public safety and proper oversight of medications. Critics may worry that removing suggested guidelines for hearings could undermine the legal protections currently available to individuals, potentially facilitating easier access to unregulated drugs. It remains important for lawmakers to consider these implications as they review the proposed changes.