Tennessee's Senate Bill 190, introduced on March 5, 2025, aims to clarify health insurance coverage for employees who are pregnant and have recently been terminated from their jobs. The bill seeks to address the complexities surrounding health benefits for former employees during a critical time in their lives.

The primary provision of Senate Bill 190 mandates that employees who are pregnant and lose their jobs must notify their employer within 30 days of the end of their pregnancy, whether through childbirth or other means. This notification must be provided in a signed written statement, which can be submitted electronically. If the former employee fails to provide this notification, the employer is granted the right to pursue legal action to recover costs associated with maintaining the employee's health coverage during the period following their termination.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that employers can stop payment for the health insurance coverage of a former employee or request termination of coverage only after receiving the required notification. This provision aims to protect both the employer's financial interests and the health needs of the former employee.

Debate surrounding Senate Bill 190 has focused on its implications for both employees and employers. Supporters argue that the bill provides necessary clarity and protects employers from incurring costs for coverage that may no longer be needed. Critics, however, express concern that the requirement for timely notification could place undue pressure on vulnerable employees during a challenging time.

The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and its passage could have significant implications for workplace policies regarding health insurance and employee rights in Tennessee. As the state grapples with balancing employer responsibilities and employee protections, Senate Bill 190 represents a critical step in addressing these ongoing issues. The outcome of this legislation will likely influence future discussions on health benefits and employment rights in the state.