Senate Bill 1664, also known as House Bill 1665, aims to enhance the protection of minors in healthcare settings by prohibiting healthcare providers from asking specific questions related to gender identity without parental consent. The bill introduces a new section, 56-7-1022, which prohibits health insurance issuers and managed care organizations from requiring healthcare providers to ask these sensitive questions as a condition for payment or participation. Additionally, it establishes that insurers cannot penalize providers for not asking such questions, categorizing violations as unfair or deceptive acts under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act.

The bill further outlines the rights of parents regarding their minor children's healthcare decisions, emphasizing that parents must be fully informed and provide written consent before any inquiries about gender identity are made. It prohibits healthcare providers from conducting private interviews with minors on gender-related topics unless specific conditions are met, such as the presence and consent of a parent. The legislation also clarifies that it does not limit mandated reporting obligations for child abuse or neglect, nor does it restrict emergency medical care. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 47-18-104(b), 47-18-104