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Bill

HB 2213

Employees, Employers - As introduced, creates the "Anti-Retaliation for Reporting Unsafe Work Act." - Amends TCA Title 50.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jason Powell

Tennessee bill prohibits employers from retaliating against workers who report unsafe workplace conditions, strengthening employee protections for safety reporting.

Re-ref. Banking & Consumer Affairs Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 2213

Legislative bill overview

HB 2213 creates the "Anti-Retaliation for Reporting Unsafe Work Act" by amending Tennessee's employment law (TCA Title 50). The bill establishes legal protections preventing employers from retaliating against employees who report workplace safety violations or hazardous conditions.

Why is this important

Workplace safety protections affect millions of Tennessee workers across all industries. Without anti-retaliation safeguards, employees may fear reporting genuine safety hazards to their employers or regulatory agencies, potentially leaving dangerous conditions unaddressed. This legislation aims to encourage proactive safety reporting by removing the fear of job loss or adverse employment action.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Disagreement over what constitutes "unsafe work" and which reporting channels trigger protection (internal reports only vs. external agencies vs. media)
  • Employer burden: Small business concerns about compliance costs, investigative burdens, and exposure to frivolous claims disguised as safety complaints
  • Remedies and enforcement: Dispute over what penalties employers face, whether employees can sue directly, and how damages are calculated versus existing workers' compensation systems

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

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