Tennessee Senate Bill SB2286

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26
• Engrossed: 3/19/26
• Enrolled: 3/26/26
• Passed: 4/13/26
• Chaptered: 5/4/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 29; Title 56, Chapter 32, Part 1; Title 56, Chapter 7, Part 24; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, Chapter 5, relative to midwifery.

Impact

The expected impact of SB2286 is significant for the field of midwifery in Tennessee. By examining the practices in neighboring states, the bill seeks to evaluate and possibly enhance the autonomy of certified nurse midwives in Tennessee. The findings from this study could lead to recommendations for legislative amendments that would better align Tennessee's midwifery practices with those of other states, which may benefit both practitioners and patients by expanding access to midwifery services.

Summary

SB2286 is an act that amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning midwifery, specifically focusing on the independent practice of certified nurse midwives. The bill mandates the commissioner of health to conduct a study analyzing the levels of independent practice allowed for certified nurse midwives in neighboring states. This comparative study aims to understand how Tennessee's regulations stack up against those of other states and potentially inform future legislative efforts.

Contention

While no specific points of contention are highlighted within the text of the bill, there may be underlying debates surrounding the regulation of midwifery practice. Issues of public welfare, safety, and the adequacy of training for independent practice could emerge as focal points during discussions in the legislative process. Stakeholders may express divergent views on how much independence should be granted to midwives, particularly regarding patient safety and healthcare access.