Tennessee lawmakers propose Reproductive Freedom Act to restore abortion rights

The Population Health Subcommittee of the Tennessee State Legislature convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss significant health care legislation, notably the proposed Reproductive Freedom Act. This bill aims to restore reproductive rights in Tennessee by repealing the state's near-total abortion ban and protecting health care providers from prosecution related to reproductive health services.

The discussion emphasized the importance of allowing Tennesseans to make personal health care decisions without government interference. Advocates for the bill argued that it would ensure access to contraception and pregnancy care, promoting a vision of a Tennessee where individuals can decide if, when, and how to start a family. The bill's supporters framed it as a necessary step toward achieving bodily autonomy and economic freedom for all residents, regardless of race, class, or immigration status.

Key points raised during the meeting included the assertion that the legislation represents a broader fight against oppressive policies and a commitment to creating supportive communities for families. The term "South Star bill" was introduced to describe the legislation as a guiding vision for future advocacy, highlighting the South's history of resistance to restrictive laws.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and action to ensure that the rights outlined in the Reproductive Freedom Act are realized, emphasizing the long-term vision for health care equity in Tennessee. The subcommittee's discussions reflect a growing movement advocating for reproductive rights and health care access in the state.