Tennessee Senate Bill SB0462

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/25
• Chaptered: 4/4/25
• Passed: 4/4/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 15, Chapter 2, Part 1, relative to periods of special observance.

Summary

This bill adds a new provision to Tennessee’s special observances statute declaring the month of November to be observed annually as “Diabetes Awareness Month” in the state. The measure is a ceremonial or commemorative designation rather than a regulatory program, and it does not create new enforcement mechanisms, reporting requirements, or funding obligations. By amending Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 15, Chapter 2, Part 1, the bill expands the list of state-recognized observances and places diabetes awareness alongside other officially recognized awareness periods. Its practical effect is to give the observance formal state recognition and encourage public attention to diabetes prevention, treatment, and education.

Impact

The bill amends Tennessee’s statutes governing periods of special observance by adding November as Diabetes Awareness Month. It does not alter substantive health-care law, insurance rules, or public health duties, but it does formally recognize diabetes awareness in state law and may be used by state agencies, schools, and advocacy groups to support educational or outreach activities.

Sentiment

The bill appears to have received broad, noncontroversial support. It passed the Senate Health and Welfare Committee 8-0 and later passed the floor 32-0, indicating unanimous support among those voting. The lack of recorded opposition suggests the measure was viewed as a symbolic public-health resolution rather than a contested policy change.

Contention

No notable substantive contention is reflected in the available record. Because the bill is a commemorative designation, there is no evidence of disagreement over regulatory impact, cost, or implementation. The only possible point of discussion would be the general practice of adding state observances to the code, but no opposition or debate is shown in the provided materials.