WeVote

Bill

Bill

HB 2029

Dieticians and Nutritionists - As introduced, enacts the "Dietetics and Nutrition Practice Act," which rewrites the requirements for licensure for the practice of dietetics and nutrition and makes other related changes; revises various provisions regarding the board of dietitians and nutritionists examiners, including expanding the board from five to nine members. - Amends TCA Title 4 and Title 63.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeremy Faison

Tennessee bill rewrites dietitian/nutritionist licensing requirements and expands regulatory board from 5 to 9 members to reshape professional standards and oversight.

Signed by Senate Speaker
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2029

Legislative bill overview

HB 2029 comprehensively rewrites Tennessee's licensing framework for dietitians and nutritionists by enacting the "Dietetics and Nutrition Practice Act." The bill also expands the regulatory Board of Dietitians and Nutritionists Examiners from five to nine members and revises related governance provisions across Tennessee Code Annotated Titles 4 and 63.

Why is this important

Licensing requirements directly affect who can legally practice dietetics and nutrition in Tennessee, influencing consumer access to these services and professional standards. Changes to board composition and structure can significantly alter how regulations are developed, enforced, and whether the profession's interests or public oversight receive greater emphasis in regulatory decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice clarity: Rewritten licensure requirements may expand or contract what activities dietitians versus nutritionists can legally perform, affecting professional turf and consumer choice
  • Board composition balance: Expanding from 5 to 9 members raises questions about who fills new seats—whether appointed positions favor industry practitioners, public representatives, or other healthcare professionals
  • Licensure barriers: Changes to educational requirements, exam standards, or experience thresholds could affect entry into the profession and may be viewed as either protecting consumers or creating unnecessary hurdles

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.