SB0955

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63, relative to rights of conscience and free speech.

Complete·4/29/25

Tennessee SB0955, the Medical Ethics Defense Act, protects healthcare providers' rights of conscience and free speech.

Tennessee SB0955, the Medical Ethics Defense Act, ensures healthcare providers cannot be required to participate in procedures that conflict with their conscience. It also prohibits discrimination against providers for exercising their free speech rights, as long as they are not providing medical advice or treatment. The act allows aggrieved parties to seek civil action for violations, including injunctive and declaratory relief, damages, and attorney fees. It also includes whistleblower protections and free speech protections for healthcare providers. The act takes effect upon becoming law.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Sponsors

0
11
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Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

25 Yea

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6 Nay

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Calendar

Feb 26, 2025

1:00 PM

Senate Health And Welfare Hearing

History

Apr 29, 2025

Pub. Ch. 266

Apr 29, 2025

Effective date(s) 04/24/2025

Apr 24, 2025

Senate

Signed by Governor.