Tennessee House Bill HB2197

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26

Caption

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

Impact

The implications of HB2197 are significant for individuals with previous criminal convictions seeking to enter the health care profession. By requiring licensing authorities to provide written justification for disqualification based on criminal history, the bill aims to increase transparency in the application process. This provision has the potential to reduce arbitrary denials and could facilitate a pathway for rehabilitation and reintegration into the workforce for affected individuals.

Summary

House Bill 2197 aims to amend specific provisions of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to health care licensing. Primarily, it modifies the process by which individuals with criminal histories can inquire about their eligibility for obtaining licenses, certificates, or registrations necessary for practicing in the health care sector. The bill mandates that until an application is submitted, an individual can request a notice from the licensing authority regarding their qualifications based solely on their criminal background.

Contention

While the bill is designed to benefit individuals with prior convictions, it may also spark debate concerning public safety and accountability within the health care field. Critics might argue that ensuring public trust in health care professionals is paramount, and thus, the bill's focus on restricting licensing denials based solely on criminal history could lead to concerns about adequately vetting potential practitioners. Proponents, however, may counter that the reform aligns with broader movements towards rehabilitation and the fair treatment of individuals with a criminal record.

Additional_notes

The bill signifies an administrative change where the licensing authorities will have to amend their protocols in addressing individuals' inquiries about licensing eligibility. The law, upon enactment, will result in an updated approach to evaluating the qualifying criteria for prospective health care workers, which could affect the overall dynamics within the health care workforce.