reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 5 - PREVENTION OF DISEASES (§§ 68-5-101 — 68-5-906) › Part 9 - EARLY DETECTION OF HEARING LOSS (§§ 68-5-901 — 68-5-906) › Section 68-5-905 - Report and referrals

The results of all hearing screenings performed pursuant to this part shall be reported to the department of health. The department of health shall refer any child who does not pass the hearing screening test to the Tennessee early intervention system (TEIS) of the department of education for follow-up. Children who have been identified with hearing loss or high risk conditions that place them at high risk for hearing loss as identified by standards established by a nationally recognized organization such as the Joint Committee on Infant Hearing Screening of the American Academy of Pediatrics shall be referred to the TEIS.
Acts 2008, ch. 768, § 6.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 5 - PREVENTION OF DISEASES (§§ 68-5-101 — 68-5-906) › Part 9 - EARLY DETECTION OF HEARING LOSS (§§ 68-5-901 — 68-5-906) › Section 68-5-906 - Rules and Regulations

The department of health, in consultation with the department of education, shall promulgate rules and regulations in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, to effectuate this part.
Acts 2008, ch. 768, § 7.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 6 - SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST PREVENTION ACT (§§ 68-6-NEW — 68-6-104) › Section 68-6-NEW - [Newly enacted section not yet numbered]

(a)
The governing authority of each public and nonpublic school that serves any of the grades nine through twelve (9-12) shall maintain an automated external defibrillator (AED), as defined in §
68-140-402
, that is accessible during the school day and during all school youth athletic activities in which students in any of the grades nine through twelve (9-12) are participating.
(b)
An AED maintained pursuant to subsection (a) must:
(1)
Be identified with signage;
(2)
Be located on-site of the school youth athletic activity or placed and made available in an unlocked location on school property that allows for the AED to be used on an individual who may experience a sudden cardiac arrest event while the individual is on-site of the school youth athletic activity within three (3) minutes; and
(3)
Meet the requirements of title 68, chapter 140, part 408.
(c)
The governing authority of a public or nonpublic school may use an AED maintained by the governing authority pursuant to §
49-2-122
or §
49-50-804
to meet the requirements of this section.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 625,s 4, eff. 7/1/2024.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 6 - SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST PREVENTION ACT (§§ 68-6-NEW — 68-6-104) › Section 68-6-101 - Short title

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Act."
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 625,s 2, eff. 7/1/2024.
Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 325, s 1, eff. 1/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 6 - SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST PREVENTION ACT (§§ 68-6-NEW — 68-6-104) › Section 68-6-102 - Chapter definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1)
"Community-based youth athletic activity" or "youth athletic activity" means an athletic activity organized by a city, county, business, or nonprofit organization when the majority of the participants are under eighteen (18) years of age, and are engaging in an organized athletic game or competition against another team, club, or entity or in practice or preparation for an organized game or competition against another team, club, or entity. "Community-based youth athletic activity" does not include college or university activities or an activity which is entered into for instructional purposes only, an athletic activity that is incidental to a nonathletic program, or a lesson;
(2)
"Department" means the department of health;
(3)
"Health care provider" means a Tennessee licensed medical doctor (M.D.) or an osteopathic physician (D.O.);
(4)
"Person" means any individual or governmental entity, corporation, association, organization, nonprofit institution, or other entity or such entities' representatives; and
(5)
"School youth athletic activity" means a school or a local education agency organized athletic activity when the majority of the participants are under eighteen (18) years of age, and are engaging in an organized athletic game or competition against another team, club, or entity or in practice or preparation for an organized game or competition against another team, club, or entity. "School youth athletic activity" does not include college or university activities, an activity which is entered into for instructional purposes only, or an athletic activity that is incidental to a nonathletic program, or a lesson.
Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 325,s 1, eff. 1/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 7 - MEDICAL CANNABIS COMMISSION (§§ 68-7-101 — 68-7-109) › Section 68-7-101 - Chapter definitions

For purposes of this chapter:
(1)
"Bona fide practitioner-patient relationship" means a practitioner and patient have a treatment or consulting relationship, during the course of which the practitioner has completed an assessment of the patient's medical history and current medical disease or condition, including an appropriate examination and confirmation of the patient having a qualifying medical disease or condition;
(2)
"Commission" means the medical cannabis commission;
(3)
"Medical cannabis program":
(A)
Means a program that authorizes the licensing or regulation of the cultivation, processing, shipping, or distribution of cannabis for medical use; and
(B)
Does not include a four-year public or private institution of higher education operating pursuant to §
39-17-402(16)(E)
;
(4)
"Practitioner" means a physician who is licensed to practice medicine in this state pursuant to title 63, chapter 6, or osteopathic medicine in this state pursuant to title 63, chapter 9;
(5)
"Qualifying medical disease or condition" means:
(A)
Alzheimer's disease;
(B)
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS);
(C)
Cancer, when such disease is diagnosed as end stage or the treatment produces related wasting illness, recalcitrant nausea and vomiting, or pain;
(D)
Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis;
(E)
Epilepsy or seizures;
(F)
Multiple sclerosis;
(G)
Parkinson's disease;
(H)
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); or
(I)
Sickle cell disease; and
(6)
"Valid letter of attestation" means a letter signed and dated by a practitioner with whom the patient has a bona fide practitioner-patient relationship, that:
(A)
Attests that the patient has a qualifying medical disease or condition;
(B)
Specifies the patient's qualifying medical disease or condition;
(C)
Attests that the patient has received conventional methods of treatment for the patient's qualifying medical disease or condition and those methods have insufficiently addressed the patient's disease or condition, or symptoms of the disease or condition; and
(D)
Is only valid six (6) months from the date of the practitioner's signature, or to a date certain that is less than six (6) months from the date of the signature if specified by the practitioner.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 577, s 1, eff. 5/27/2021.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 7 - MEDICAL CANNABIS COMMISSION (§§ 68-7-101 — 68-7-109) › Section 68-7-102 - Medical cannabis commission

(a)
There is created the medical cannabis commission. The commission shall serve as a resource for the study of federal and state laws regarding medical cannabis and the preparation of legislation to establish an effective, patient-focused medical cannabis program in this state upon the rescheduling or descheduling of marijuana from Schedule I of the federal Controlled Substances Act (
21 U.S.C. § 801
, et seq.).
(b)
This chapter does not authorize a medical cannabis program to operate in this state, and licenses for such a program shall not be issued, or authorized to be issued, until marijuana is removed from Schedule I of the federal Controlled Substances Act.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 577, s 1, eff. 5/27/2021.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 7 - MEDICAL CANNABIS COMMISSION (§§ 68-7-101 — 68-7-109) › Section 68-7-104 - Official domicile - Meetings

(a)
The official domicile of the commission is in Nashville. All meetings of the commission must be held in Nashville.
(b)
The commission must be impaneled and hold its first meeting no later than October 1, 2021, at which time, and annually thereafter, the members shall elect a chair and other officers as the members deem necessary.
(c)
The commission shall meet in Nashville at least once every two (2) months prior to March 1, 2023, and hold other meetings for any period of time as may be necessary for the commission to transact and perform its official duties and functions. Beginning March 1, 2023, the commission is authorized to meet less frequently than once every two (2) months; provided, that the commission shall set and hold regular meetings necessary for the commission to transact and perform its official duties and functions. The commission may hold a special meeting at any time it deems necessary and advisable in the performance of its official duties. Five (5) members of the commission constitute a quorum for the transaction of business or the performance of a duty, power, or function of the commission; provided, that five (5) affirmative votes are required to adopt or report out a resolution or recommendation of the commission. A special meeting may be called by the chair or by a majority of the commission. The commission may participate by electronic or other means of communication pursuant to §
8-44-108
for the benefit of the public and the commission in connection with a meeting authorized by law; provided, that a physical quorum is maintained at the location of the meeting.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 577, s 1, eff. 5/27/2021.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 7 - MEDICAL CANNABIS COMMISSION (§§ 68-7-101 — 68-7-109) › Section 68-7-105 - Reimbursement for travel expenses

All reimbursement for travel expenses must be in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 577, s 1, eff. 5/27/2021.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 7 - MEDICAL CANNABIS COMMISSION (§§ 68-7-101 — 68-7-109) › Section 68-7-106 - Executive director

(a)
The commission shall appoint an executive director qualified by education and experience. The executive director must demonstrate knowledge and experience in the areas of public administration, public health, or law enforcement.
(b)
The commission shall fix the salary of the executive director, who shall serve at the pleasure of the commission. The executive director shall be the chief administrative officer of the commission and the appointing authority, as defined in §
8-30-103
, exercising general supervision over all persons employed by the commission.
(c)
The executive director has the following duties:
(1)
Keep a written record of all proceedings and transactions of the commission, which must be open to public inspection during regular office hours;
(2)
Assist the commission in researching and examining federal laws, the effectiveness of other states' laws and legislation, and laws and legislation in this state relating to the medical use of cannabis;
(3)
Oversee the preparation of recommendations to the general assembly, including proposed legislation;
(4)
Represent the commission before the general assembly;
(5)
Prepare the agenda, including consent and emergency calendars, and notice to the general public of all meetings and public hearings of the commission;
(6)
Employ personnel, within the budget, to assist in carrying out this chapter;
(7)
Carry out all policies that are adopted by the commission;
(8)
Be responsible for the performance of all duties and functions delegated by the commission; and
(9)
Supervise the expenditure of funds.
(d)
The executive director shall be reimbursed for travel expenses in accordance with the comprehensive travel regulations as promulgated by the department of finance and administration and approved by the attorney general and reporter.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 577, s 1, eff. 5/27/2021.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 7 - MEDICAL CANNABIS COMMISSION (§§ 68-7-101 — 68-7-109) › Section 68-7-107 - Attachment of commission to department of health for administrative matters and support

The commission is attached to the department of health for administrative matters relating to budgeting, audit, and other related items, and for additional administrative support, including the use of information technology systems, human resources support, and clerical assistance as may be necessary for the effective administration and enforcement of this chapter.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 577, s 1, eff. 5/27/2021.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 7 - MEDICAL CANNABIS COMMISSION (§§ 68-7-101 — 68-7-109) › Section 68-7-108 - Conflict of interest policy - Disclosures

The commission shall adopt and implement a conflict of interest policy for its members. The policy must mandate annual written disclosures of financial interests and other possible conflicts of interest and an acknowledgement by commission members that they have read and understand all aspects of the policy. The policy must also require persons who are to be appointed to acknowledge, as a condition of appointment, that they are not in conflict with the conditions of the policy.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 577, s 1, eff. 5/27/2021.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-101 - Short title

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Anti-Rabies Law."
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-102 - Chapter definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1)
"Cat" means all domesticated members of the feline family;
(2)
"Commissioner" means the commissioner of health or a duly authorized representative;
(3)
"Compendium or rabies compendium" means the most recent issue of the national "Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control" published by the Association of State Public Health Veterinarians;
(4)
"Confinement" means housed in a building, pen or by some other suitable escape-proof method or enclosure or being leashed;
(5)
"Department" means the Tennessee department of health;
(6)
"Dog" means all domesticated members of the canine family;
(7)
"Hybrid animal" means the offspring of wild animals crossbred to domestic dogs or cats or any of their progeny for which the owner has records substantiating that their genetic heritage consists of twenty-five percent (25%) or more from wild animals. Crossbred dogs or cats with less than twenty-five percent (25%) documented genetic heritage from wild animals will be considered as domestic dogs or cats for purposes of this chapter;
(8)
"Observation period" means the time following a bite incident during which the biting animal's health status must be monitored;
(9)
"Owner" means any person having a right or property in a dog or cat, or who keeps or harbors a dog or cat, or who has it in such person's care or acts as its custodian, or who permits a dog or cat to remain on or about any premises;
(10)
"Peace officer" means animal control officer, police, rabies control officer, sheriff, wildlife officer, or similar duly appointed law enforcement officer of the state or any political subdivision thereof, authorized by the Constitution, statutes, charter, or ordinances to enforce statutory, rule, charter or ordinance violations. It does not include employees of the department assigned to implement this chapter;
(11)
"Quarantine" means a state of strictly enforced isolation from other animals or the public imposed to prevent the spread of disease;
(12)
"Shelter" means animal or humane shelter, dog pound or animal pound;
(13)
"Vaccination" means the injection of a rabies vaccine for animals, which meets the standards prescribed by both the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) license granted to the vaccine for interstate sale and by the department; and
(14)
"Veterinarian" means any individual licensed by the state board of veterinary medical examiners to practice veterinary medicine in this state.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-103 - Vaccination of animals - Certificate and tags - Frequency

(a)
It is unlawful for any person to own, keep or harbor any dog or cat six (6) months of age or older that has not been vaccinated against rabies as required by this chapter, or the rules and regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter.
(b)
Dogs and cats may be vaccinated as early as three (3) months of age or at an age as specified by the vaccine's United States department of agriculture (USDA) license, but will be considered as noncompliant with this section if over six (6) months of age.
(c)
Ferrets, certain livestock, hybrid animals and other animals may be vaccinated for rabies if a vaccine is legally available for that species. Routine rabies vaccination of animals other than dogs or cats is not required unless deemed necessary by the commissioner or by emergency rules of the department.
(d)
All rabies vaccinations of dogs and cats as required by this chapter shall be administered only by or under the supervision of a veterinarian.
(e)
Evidence of such vaccination shall consist of a certificate that contains the owner's name and address, date of vaccination, date the dog or cat should be revaccinated, description and sex of the dog or cat vaccinated, number of the vaccination tag issued when applicable, manufacturer and lot number of vaccine administered, and the name and signature of the supervising veterinarian. If the vaccination is given at an animal control facility or shelter, then the certificate shall contain the name and signature of the person administering the vaccine as well as that of the supervising veterinarian.
(f)
The vaccination certificate shall be prepared in one (1) of the following manners, unless otherwise provided for by rule:
(1)
Paper forms in triplicate; the original shall be given to the owner, the first copy provided to and retained by the department, and the veterinarian administering or supervising the administration of the vaccine shall retain the second copy; or
(2)
Computer printout or electronic format, such that the owner, the department and the veterinarian administering the vaccine obtain a copy of the information provided for in subsection (e).
(g)
The rabies certificate form and rabies tags shall be provided by the department.
(h)
A licensed veterinarian may provide and use an alternative tag and certificate providing that the requirements in subsections (e) and (f) are met.
(i)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to require more frequent rabies vaccinations or a greater number of rabies vaccinations than are required by the rabies compendium.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-104 - Registration of cats and dogs - Fees - Rabies control program - Vaccination required for registration

(a)
In addition to, but not as a substitute for or in any way detracting from the vaccination requirements of this chapter, authorization is granted for the adoption of local laws or ordinances to require the registration of dogs or cats in counties or municipalities.
(b)
Any local laws or ordinances implementing animal registration shall include methods for the collection of registration fees and shall require the expenditure of these funds to establish and maintain a rabies control program, also commonly known as an animal control program. In addition to various animal control activities, the rabies control program shall ensure that dogs and cats are properly vaccinated in accordance with this chapter and that biting animals or rabies suspects are observed or confined in accordance with this chapter and rules of the department.
(c)
No dog or cat registration certificate shall be issued unless an unexpired certificate of rabies vaccination is exhibited.
(d)
All fees collected for registration shall become part of the county or municipality rabies control fund and shall be disbursed by the appropriate trustee in a manner prescribed by the local legislative body for the sole purpose of the payment of salaries, for the establishment and operation of an animal shelter, for the establishment and operation of an animal control program, or for other expenses incidental to the enforcement of this chapter in the jurisdiction to which the registration requirement applies.
(e)
Any funds remaining at the end of any fiscal year shall be carried over to the next fiscal year, and its expenditure authorized by the local legislative body only for the purpose of rabies and animal control.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-105 - Exempt programs

(a)
Any county or municipality maintaining a program for the control of rabies shall be exempt from the operation of this chapter so long as such rabies program meets the minimum requirements of this chapter.
(b)
This chapter shall not apply to any county that now has or hereafter may enact private laws governing the control of rabies in that county, that meet the minimum requirements of this chapter.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-106 - Rabies tag

(a)
The person or facility administering the vaccine shall issue a rabies tag for every dog vaccinated for rabies and the identification numbers on the tag shall be recorded on the rabies certificate.
(b)
Cats may be, but are not required, to be issued a rabies tag.
(c)
Every dog owner shall attach a metal tag or other evidence of rabies vaccination to a collar, which shall be worn at all times by the dog vaccinated; provided, that the collar may be removed in the case of hunting dogs while in chase or returning from the chase. Nothing in this section shall be construed as permitting the use of an unvaccinated dog for any purpose.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-107 - Seizure of dogs running at large - Notification of seized animals - Redemption by owner - Vaccination requirement

(a)
Any dog found running at large may be seized by any peace officer and placed in an animal shelter in counties or cities where an animal shelter or pound is available.
(b)
If the dog or cat is wearing a rabies vaccination tag or other identification, all reasonable effort shall be made to locate and notify the owners who shall be required to appear within five (5) days and redeem the animal by paying a pound fee as set by the city or county legislative body. A failure to pay the pound fee, or have the animal vaccinated if proof of current vaccination is not produced prior to release, shall require the animal to be adopted or destroyed.
(c)
If any dog or cat is not wearing a vaccination tag or other identification, the animal may be adopted or destroyed, unless legally claimed by the owner within three (3) days.
(d)
No dog or cat three (3) months of age or older shall be released from a shelter without having proof of current vaccination or until it has been vaccinated and, where applicable, a tag issued.
(e)
A county may allow, by local ordinance, the adoption of a dog or cat three (3) months of age or older without a vaccination as long as procedures are established to ensure that the animal is vaccinated for rabies within seventy-two (72) hours of release from the shelter.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-108 - Transportation of dogs and cats in the state

This chapter shall not prohibit the transportation of dogs or cats in the state; provided, that dogs or cats diagnosed with or suspected of having rabies are securely confined or kept on a leash while being transported in the state.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 58,s 1, eff. 3/26/2013.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-109 - Observation period by confinement or quarantine - Investigation

(a)
If any animal has bitten any person, is suspected of having bitten any person or is for any reason suspected of being infected with rabies, the animal may be required to be placed under an observation period either by confinement or by quarantine for a period of time deemed necessary by the commissioner or rules of the department.
(b)
The act of investigating the bite or rabies exposure and placing the animal under observation by confinement or quarantine shall be accomplished either by the department or by the animal control program, in either the county or municipality wherein either the animal owner or the person bitten resides, in consultation with the department.
(c)
The confinement, quarantine or other disposition of the animal shall follow the current recommendations in the national rabies compendium unless more specific guidelines are designated by duly promulgated rules of the department or as deemed necessary by the commissioner to protect the public's health.
(d)
The observation period by confinement or quarantine may occur at the animal owner's home at the discretion of the department or the animal control program.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-110 - Offense of hiding or concealing animal in violation of this chapter

It is an offense for any person to hide, conceal, aid, or assist in hiding or concealing any animal owned, kept or harbored in violation of §
68-8-103
or §
68-8-109
. An offense under this section is punishable as a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-111 - Liability for rabies program

Any licensed veterinarian who provides services to vaccinate animals against rabies at a community clinic that is sponsored by a county health department or municipality in accordance with this chapter, shall not by such participation assume any responsibility or liability for the supervision of the site or location where the rabies program is conducted. Such responsibility and liability shall be borne by the sponsoring county or municipality.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-112 - Rules and regulations

(a)
The commissioner of health shall have the authority to promulgate such rules and regulations as may be deemed necessary for the proper enforcement of this chapter.
(b)
The commissioner in adopting rules may rely in whole or in part on guidance or standards contained in the rabies compendium or issued by the United States department of agriculture.
(c)
The rules deemed necessary by the commissioner to effectuate this chapter are of such importance to the welfare of the citizens of this state that they may be promulgated as emergency rules.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1; 2009, ch. 566, § 12.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 8 - RABIES (§§ 68-8-101 — 68-8-113) › Section 68-8-113 - Violations

Any person failing to meet any requirements or violating any of the provisions of this chapter commits a Class C misdemeanor with each violation being a separate offense.
Acts 2004, ch. 765, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-101 - Short title

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Tuberculosis Control Act of 1971."
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 1; T.C.A., § 53-1020.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-102 - Division of tuberculosis control created

The department of health is authorized and empowered to create and maintain a division of tuberculosis control, which shall provide effective measures for the diagnosis, prevention, treatment and cure of tuberculosis.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 2; 1977, ch. 145, § 1; T.C.A., § 53-1021.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-103 - Chapter definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1)
"Approved hospitals" means hospitals approved by the commissioner as having adequate facilities and staff for the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis;
(2)
"Chest disease hospitals" means state-owned hospitals established, operated and maintained by the department for the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and cure of tuberculosis;
(3)
"Commissioner" means the commissioner of health or the commissioner's duly authorized representative;
(4)
"Department" means the department of health;
(5)
"Division" means the division of tuberculosis control;
(6)
"Physician" means any doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathy duly licensed to practice the doctor's profession in Tennessee or the state in which the doctor resides and lawfully practices the doctor's profession;
(7)
"Tuberculosis" means a disease caused by the human tubercle bacillus, whether infectious or noninfectious; and
(8)
"Tuberculosis suspect" means a person with clinical, epidemiologic, x-ray, or laboratory evidence suggestive of tuberculosis.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 3; 1977, ch. 145, § 2; T.C.A., § 53-1022; Acts 1985, ch. 184, § 6.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-104 - Rules and regulations - Purposes

The commissioner is authorized to adopt, promulgate and enforce rules and regulations to:
(1)
Enable the department to carry out this chapter for the control of tuberculosis;
(2)
Establish criteria for the admission of patients to approved hospitals, and for the proper hospital and out-patient care for these patients; and
(3)
Establish procedures for the reporting of tuberculosis and for isolating and quarantining those persons infected with tuberculosis who have been determined by the commissioner or by a state, district, county or municipal health officer to be contagious.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 4; 1977, ch. 145, § 3; T.C.A., § 53-1023.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-106 - Data and records

The department shall maintain a tuberculosis register system and conduct epidemiologic studies of the conditions existing within the state, regarding the prevalence, prevention, treatment and cure of tuberculosis. It shall compile data from the register system and the studies and keep a record of the data, to the end that the disease may be more effectually combated.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 11; 1977, ch. 145, § 6; T.C.A., § 53-1030.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-107 - Field treatment clinics

The division has the power and is authorized to expend from the amount appropriated to it such amount as may be recommended by the commissioner and approved by the governor for the establishment and operation of field treatment clinics, which shall include, but not be limited to, the necessary medical personnel, nursing personnel, anti-tuberculosis medications, supplies and x-ray and other equipment necessary to the organization and conduct of such clinic, research, administration, and all other purposes incident thereto.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 12; 1977, ch. 145, § 7; T.C.A., § 53-1031.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-108 - Acquisition and divestiture of property

For the execution of the powers, duties and obligations vested in the department, the department has the right to acquire by purchase, gift, bequest, lease, devise or otherwise, all necessary or proper personalty, lands and tenements, or any interest in personalty, lands and tenements as the department may determine to acquire or accept, and the department has the right to sell, give, lease or otherwise dispose of the personalty, lands and tenements, or any interest in the personalty, land and tenements, as, to the best interests of the state and for the execution of the powers and duties vested, may to the department appear necessary or proper; provided, that all property acquired by the department shall be held by the department as trustees for the state of Tennessee, for only the purposes and uses necessary or proper to the execution of the powers and duties.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 13; T.C.A., § 53-1032.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-109 - Contracts

(a)
The department is empowered to enter into, execute and perform all contracts for services or property, or both, necessary or proper to the execution of the purposes of this chapter and, to this end, may enter into any contract with any county or municipality, or both, jointly, for the use, loan or purchase of any property, real or personal, belonging to the county or municipality, and suitable for the execution of the powers conferred in this chapter, and to make any arrangement for the care, treatment, observation and supervision of eligible patients, under this chapter that may appear proper to the commissioner.
(b)
Any contract authorized in this chapter shall comply with all requirements of the law in executing the contract and shall be subject to the budgetary process of the general assembly.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 14; 1977, ch. 145, § 17; T.C.A., §§ 53-1033, 53-1049.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-110 - Hospital administrative personnel

The commissioner shall employ a hospital administrator for each of the chest disease hospitals and other capable administrative personnel as are required for the efficient and effective administration of the hospital.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 15; T.C.A., § 53-1034; Acts 1985, ch. 184, § 6.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-111 - Classification of expenditures - Hospitalization available to all

(a)
The expenditure of public funds for the control of tuberculosis and the isolation and treatment of persons ill with tuberculosis shall be considered as expenditures for the protection of the public health, and not as funds expended for welfare or relief.
(b)
Hospitalization shall be available for the diagnosis and treatment of any person having or suspected of having tuberculosis.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 16; 1977, ch. 145, § 9; T.C.A., § 53-1035.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-112 - Bill collection - Free treatment

(a)
(1)
The commissioner may make such rules and regulations as may be deemed necessary to collect all or any part of the established cost of treatment from a patient, or from the person or persons legally liable for the patient's support, who may have income or estate sufficient to make reimbursement without materially affecting their economic support or obligations, or responsibilities to dependents.
(2)
All funds collected pursuant to subdivision (a)(1) are to be treated as expendable receipts and are to be used for the operation of the hospitals.
(b)
(1)
Any resident of Tennessee having or suspected of having tuberculosis, who is considered as acceptable for treatment by the commissioner, may be treated without cost when the person to receive care or treatment, or the person or persons legally responsible for the resident's support, is unable to pay, in whole or in part, the established cost of care and treatment.
(2)
The department of human services may be requested to make field investigations.
(c)
The department is empowered to enter into and execute contracts with other states or agencies for the reimbursement of the established cost for the care and treatment of persons who are acceptable for treatment by the commissioner.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 18; impl. am. Acts 1975, ch. 219, § 1(b); Acts 1977, ch. 145, § 10; T.C.A., § 53-1037.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-113 - Fiscal policies authorized to qualify for federal and other aid

The department, with the approval of the governor, has the power and is authorized to adopt such reasonable fiscal policies governing the use and allocation of funds appropriated under provisions of this chapter as may be necessary to enable the state to procure the maximum possible financial and other aid for tuberculosis control purposes from federal and other agencies.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 26; T.C.A., § 53-1045.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-114 - Federal aid

The state of Tennessee accepts any and all legislation enacted by the congress of the United States, whether heretofore or hereafter enacted, providing financial aid to or cooperation with the several states in the eradication, prevention or treatment of tuberculosis.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 27; T.C.A., § 53-1046.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-115 - Attorney general and reporter - Duties

It is the duty of the attorney general and reporter, upon the request of the department, to advise the department at all times of its legal rights, duties, powers and obligations, in matters concerning this chapter, to appear in any proceedings in the courts or otherwise, concerning the department and to do all things proper to carry out the duties in this chapter imposed upon the attorney general and reporter.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 28; T.C.A., § 53-1047.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-116) › Section 68-9-116 - East Tennessee Chest Disease Hospital not affected

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to affect the continued operation and function of the East Tennessee Chest Disease Hospital or to deny to patients in the area that it serves the opportunity to be admitted to and receive treatment in that hospital, as the availability of facilities and the patient load permit.
Acts 1977, ch. 145, § 16; T.C.A., § 53-1048.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 2 - QUARANTINE (§§ 68-9-201 — 68-9-207) › Section 68-9-201 - Report of diseased persons - Immunity from liability

(a)
If any attending physician or other person knows or has good reason to suspect that a person having tuberculosis is behaving so as to expose other persons to infection, or is about to so conduct themselves, the attending physician or other person shall notify the state, district, municipal or county health officer of the name and address of the diseased person and the essential facts in the case.
(b)
State, district, municipal and county health officers involved in tuberculosis control and elimination shall notify appropriate health authorities of jurisdictions in the appropriate states, territories, and municipalities when an individual with confirmed or clinically diagnosed infectious tuberculosis or currently under treatment for tuberculosis disease relocates from Tennessee into another jurisdiction, such notification being subject to approval of the state health officer or such officer's designee. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the commissioner of health is authorized to notify the appropriate tuberculosis infection control staff of this or another state of an individual's tuberculosis infection for the sole purpose of containing a potential threat to the public health and welfare or to assure completion of proper treatment of the diseased person. All persons who receive notification of the infectious condition of an individual under this subsection (b) shall hold the information in the strictest confidence and shall not reveal the information to others. A person making disclosure by providing patient identifying information and medical information related to the patient's tuberculosis status is immune from liability for making this disclosure of information for the purpose of preventing the further spread of disease and assuring completion of proper treatment of the diseased person.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 19; T.C.A., § 53-1038; Acts 2000, ch. 786, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 2 - QUARANTINE (§§ 68-9-201 — 68-9-207) › Section 68-9-202 - Examination and quarantine of suspects

The commissioner and all state, district, county or municipal health officers or their authorized deputies within their respective jurisdictions, are authorized, directed and empowered, when in their judgment it is necessary to protect the public health, to make or have examinations made by a duly licensed and practicing physician of this state to be selected by the health officer, of persons reasonably suspected because of known clinical or epidemiological evidence of having infectious tuberculosis, and to require persons found to have infectious tuberculosis to comply with all provisions of this chapter for protection of the public from exposure to tuberculosis, and also, when in the judgment of the commissioner or state, district, municipal or county health officers, it is necessary to protect the public health, the officers are directed and empowered to isolate or quarantine persons who, because of known clinical or epidemiological evidence, are suspected of having infectious tuberculosis; provided, that any person so suspected may have present at the time of examination a physician of the person's own choosing to participate in the examination.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 20; 1977, ch. 145, § 11; T.C.A., § 53-1039.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 68 - HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-221-1319) › HEALTH (§§ 68-1-NEW — 68-6-201) › Chapter 9 - TUBERCULOSIS (§§ 68-9-101 — 68-9-207) › Part 2 - QUARANTINE (§§ 68-9-201 — 68-9-207) › Section 68-9-203 - Quarantine conditions

In establishing isolation or quarantine, the commissioner or state, district, municipal or county health officer having jurisdiction shall designate and define the length of time, site and any other conditions required of the person to be isolated or quarantined.
Acts 1971, ch. 210, § 21; 1977, ch. 145, § 12; T.C.A., § 53-1040.