March 5, 2026
CONTACT: madison@unbendablemedia.com and brandon.puttbrese@capitol.tn.gov
Tennessee Senate Passes SB 1681 to Strengthen Emergency Care Protections for Pregnant Patients
TENNESSEE – In a major step forward for maternal health and emergency medical protections, the Tennessee Senate today passed SB 1681 with a 26-5 vote. This legislation strengthens and clarifies emergency care protections for pregnant patients experiencing life-threatening complications.
SB 1681 reinforces hospitals’ obligations to provide stabilizing care when a physician determines that a patient is experiencing an emergency medical condition, including ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage complications, severe preeclampsia, hemorrhage, or infection requiring immediate intervention. In these moments, delays in care can mean organ damage, loss of fertility, or death.
SB 1681 was introduced by Senator London Lamar, drawing on other state-level emergency care protections.
“Tennessee’s maternal health outcomes demand action. With the highest maternal mortality rate in the country, we cannot afford uncertainty in emergency rooms. Senate Bill 1681 ensures that hospitals respond immediately to protect a pregnant patient’s life and health when complications arise. This bill strengthens the law with clarity so our nurses and doctors can focus on saving lives,” said Tennessee State Senator London Lamar.
Between 2018 – 2022, Tennessee recorded the highest level of mortality rates in the country, leaving it with a “D” grade rating. At the same time, rural hospital closures have deepened maternity care deserts, forcing pregnant patients to travel long distances for care or face life-threatening delays in emergencies.
“In many parts of Tennessee, a pregnant woman experiencing a medical emergency may already be hours away from the nearest hospital with obstetric services, ” said Kaylan A. Tanner, Deputy Director of State Strategies at All* Above All. “SB 1681 is life saving legislation that ensures patients receive stabilizing emergency care where they are, instead of being turned away in moments of crisis. Today’s Senate vote marks an important step forward and reflects a recognition that stabilizing care during life-threatening complications is not political, it is essential.”
The bill now advances to the House Population Health Subcommittee for consideration on Tuesday, March 3rd.
All* Above All envisions a world where all people, regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or geographic location, have complete autonomy over their reproductive health. This includes unrestricted access to affordable, safe abortion services, as well as comprehensive sexual and reproductive health. In short, All* works for a world where all people can make decisions about their pregnancy free from stigma, with dignity in safe and just environments. A world where reproductive justice is a reality for all.
Campaign: Abortion Coverage