Opponents decry HB 1840 as discriminatory
Members of the American Counseling Association and the Tennessee Equality Project joined other concerned Tennesseans at the state capitol Monday to lobby against Tennessee House Bill 1840 (known by opponents as Hate Bill 1840). It would permit counselors to deny services and refer clients based on the provider’s “strongly held religious beliefs.”
These two groups contend that not only is the proposed legislation discriminatory in nature, but it is also an unnecessary government intrusion that could result in costly unintended consequences for the state of Tennessee.
Last week, more than 20 members of the clergy representing several faiths from across the state issued this statement:
“As faith leaders and clergy serving people in Tennessee, we urge the Tennessee House of Representatives to reject House Bill 1840, which allows counselors to turn clients away based on the counselor’s religious beliefs. Those seeking counseling deserve the highest standard of care and we believe the American Counseling Association’s code of ethics provides that standard.”
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) has also oppose this bill.
Furthermore, opponents have also expressed concerns that the bill would hurt Tennessee’s economy, as in states like North Carolina and Georgia, where discriminatory legislation has been met with outcries from the business community.
At press time on Tuesday, the bill was headed for a vote on Wednesday.
Law gives new protection against allergy emergencies
NASHVILLE — A bill to allow epinephrine auto-injectors to be available in public spaces has become law in Tennessee. The legislation was approved unanimously by the House of Representatives and Senate and has been signed by the governor.
Sen. Mark Green (R-Clarksville) and Rep. Sabi Kumar (R-Springfield) were prime sponsors of the legislation, HB2054/SB1989.
“For Tennesseans who suffer life-threatening allergies and for those that may not even know they have severe allergies, this legislation will make a significant difference in avoiding an emergency in public places across the state,” Green said.
It is estimated that at least one in 13 children in the U.S. is living with a food allergy, and according to federal guidelines, epinephrine is the treatment that should be given first when a person is experiencing a life-threatening allergic reaction.
The legislation also authorizes trained individuals as well as others acting under the supervision of a physician to provide or administer an epinephrine auto-injector under certain circumstances, which would allow organizations such as scout troops, daycares, colleges and universities, restaurants, sports arenas and other business entities to obtain a prescription and have the life-saving medication on hand for use in an emergency.
The bill also protects those who prescribe, dispense and administer epinephrine auto-injectors under the provisions of the bill civil liability. It does not, however, protect against gross negligence, and entities that choose not to have auto-injectors available are protected from civil liability as part of the legislation.
Bible could become official state book
Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam’s signature is the last hurdle to clear before the Bible becomes the state’s official book. The measure passed Monday with a Senate vote of 19-8. It was sponsored by Sen. Steve Southerland, R-Morristown.
Fox News reported that Haslam opposes the measure but hasn’t yet said whether he’ll veto it.
Supporters have stressed the Bible’s historic and religious significance. Some opponents have argued that the bill trivializes something they hold sacred, while others have stressed their constitutional reservations.
