Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB1681

Introduced
1/14/26  
Engrossed
2/26/26  
Enrolled
4/30/26  
Passed
5/22/26  

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to medical facility procedures for women experiencing certain medical conditions.

Impact

The enactment of SB1681 is set to have a significant impact on state laws concerning hospital protocol for handling pregnant patients. By enforcing the requirement that hospitals cannot deny examinations based on a patient's payment method, the legislation aims to increase access to care. Furthermore, the bill imposes penalties for hospitals and medical professionals who fail to comply with these regulations, promoting adherence to these standards and improving healthcare outcomes. It serves to align with federal regulations and ensure that pregnant women receive necessary care without facing discrimination.

Summary

Senate Bill 1681 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting medical facility procedures for pregnant women experiencing emergency medical conditions. The bill clearly defines what constitutes an emergency medical condition in pregnant women and outlines the obligations of hospital emergency departments when these patients present for care. It mandates that hospitals must provide proper medical screening examinations and stabilize the condition of pregnant women in active labor or with emergency medical conditions before considering transfer to another medical facility, thereby ensuring that immediate care is provided without unnecessary delays.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB1681 is generally supportive among healthcare advocates who argue that it strengthens protections for vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant women in emergency situations. However, some dissenters express concern that the bill may lead to overwhelming burdens on emergency departments, potentially resulting in unintended consequences, such as longer wait times or resource allocation issues. Nonetheless, there is a prevailing belief that prioritizing maternal health in emergency situations aligns with the ethical obligation of medical providers to care for all patients, particularly those in critical conditions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the concerns raised about logistical challenges associated with the new regulations. Critics point to the potential strains on emergency services and staffing, questioning whether facilities have the necessary resources to comply without impacting overall service delivery. The strict liability provisions also spark debate regarding fairness, particularly in cases where medical professionals may be penalized for decisions made during high-pressure situations. The balance between protecting patient rights and ensuring operational feasibility in hospitals remains a significant theme in discussions surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

TN HB1943

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to medical facility procedures for women experiencing certain medical conditions.

Previously Filed As

TN HB1943

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to medical facility procedures for women experiencing certain medical conditions.

TN SB1425

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

TN HB1241

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

TN HB0495

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to medical records.

TN SB0606

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to medical records.

TN SB0584

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 53; Title 58; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to medicine.

TN HB0688

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 53; Title 58; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to medicine.

TN SB2045

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, Chapter 33, relative to prohibited medical procedures.

TN HB2310

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, Chapter 33, relative to prohibited medical procedures.

TN SB0489

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 38, Chapter 3; Title 39, Chapter 17; Title 43; Title 50; Title 53; Title 63; Title 67 and Title 68, relative to the "Tennessee Medical Cannabis Act."

Similar Bills

TN HB1943

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to medical facility procedures for women experiencing certain medical conditions.

TN HB1947

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 24; Title 33; Title 39; Title 40; Title 41; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to the Tennessee Women's Childbirth Alternatives, Resources, and Education Act.

TN SB2014

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 24; Title 33; Title 39; Title 40; Title 41; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to the Tennessee Women's Childbirth Alternatives, Resources, and Education Act.

GA HB1398

Georgia Child Care Alternatives, Resources, and Education Act; Trixtian's Law; enact

MI SB0037

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for gynecological and perinatal services; require. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406cc.

MI SB0032

Insurance: health insurers; provision of information on medical malpractice insurance relating to perinatal care services to the department of health and human services; require on request. Amends sec. 2434 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2434). TIE BAR WITH: SB 29'25

MI SB0039

Human services: medical services; medical assistance coverage for ultrasound procedures and fetal nonstress tests performed in certain locations; provide for. Amends 1939 PA 280 (MCL 400.1 - 400.119b) by adding secs. 109q & 109r.

MI SB0034

Civil rights: sex discrimination and harassment; definition of sex; modify to include lactating status for employment situations and include pregnancy and lactating status for places of public accommodation or public service. Amends secs. 201 & 301 of 1976 PA 453 (MCL 37.2201 & 37.2301).