Bill > SJR0052

This resolution affirms the Tennessee General Assembly's intent to protect pregnant individuals from criminal prosecution related to pregnancy outcomes. The document highlights several key concerns, including the state's high rate of criminal charges against pregnant people, opposition from professional organizations like the American Bar Association and American Medical Association to such prosecutions, and the disproportionate impact of such laws on low-income and minority communities. The resolution specifically emphasizes that no one should face arrest or penalties for experiencing pregnancy loss or helping a loved one through various pregnancy outcomes such as miscarriage, stillbirth, or abortion. It recalls a previous legislative decision in 2016 to end the criminalization of pregnant people for drug use and asserts that criminal or civil penalties should not complicate the already challenging experience of pregnancy loss. The final resolved clause explicitly states the General Assembly's intention that Tennessee's laws should not be used to criminalize pregnant individuals or their family and friends for their pregnancy-related experiences.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SJR0052&ga=114