Bill > SB0474

This bill prohibits healthcare providers in Tennessee from inquiring about a patient's firearm ownership, possession, or access to ammunition and accessories, with specific restrictions on how such information can be handled. The bill defines a healthcare provider broadly (excluding psychiatrists and psychologists) and prevents them from asking about firearms as a condition of treatment, denying future treatment based on firearm ownership, entering firearm-related information in patient records unless medically relevant, or sharing such information with insurers. Healthcare providers are also forbidden from discriminating against patients based on their constitutional right to own firearms. If a provider does ask about firearms, they must inform patients that they have no obligation to respond. Violations of these provisions are considered unethical conduct and can result in disciplinary action by the provider's licensing authority and a $1,000 fine per violation. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply to conduct occurring on or after that date. The bill includes a severability clause, meaning that if any part of the law is found invalid, the remaining provisions can still be enforced.

Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0474&ga=114