Bill > HB1241

This bill amends Tennessee's abortion laws by introducing precise definitions and specific conditions under which a physician can perform an abortion without committing a criminal offense. The bill defines a "lethal fetal anomaly" as a fetal condition diagnosed before 24 weeks of pregnancy that is incompatible with life, will not improve with medical intervention, and will result in the fetus's death upon or shortly after birth. It also defines "serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function" as a medically diagnosed condition that significantly complicates pregnancy, potentially causing major bodily harm. The bill allows physicians to perform abortions in two primary scenarios: first, when necessary to prevent the pregnant woman's death or serious bodily impairment, and second, when an unborn child has a confirmed lethal fetal anomaly. In the second scenario, the bill requires the diagnosis to be concurred with by two additional physicians, and the physician must inform the pregnant woman about perinatal hospice and palliative care services as an alternative. The bill provides options for either performing an abortion or conducting a premature delivery to address the lethal fetal anomaly, with the goal of avoiding intrauterine death or health risks to the pregnant woman. The legislation takes effect immediately upon becoming law.

Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1241&ga=114