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HB 1665

Health Care - As introduced, prohibits a healthcare provider from asking certain listed gender-related questions to a minor unless a parent is physically present and fully informed and provides written consent to such questions and the questions are directly related to the diagnosis or treatment of a specific medical or psychological condition currently being evaluated; makes other related changes. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 33; Title 47; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Aron Maberry

Requires parental presence, full disclosure, and written consent for healthcare providers to ask minors gender-related questions unless directly tied to diagnosing/treating a specific medical condition.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HB 1665

Legislative bill overview

HB 1665 restricts healthcare providers from asking minors gender-related questions without a parent physically present, fully informed, and providing written consent—unless the questions directly relate to diagnosing or treating a specific medical condition currently being evaluated. The bill amends multiple Tennessee code sections governing healthcare, mental health, and related services.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects how minors access healthcare by requiring parental involvement in conversations about gender identity. It has significant implications for adolescent mental health care, transgender youth medical support, and the provider-patient relationship, while raising questions about medical privacy, parental rights, and clinical autonomy.

Potential points of contention

  • Clinical judgment vs. legal requirement: Healthcare providers argue that rigid parental consent rules can prevent confidential screening for gender dysphoria, depression, and suicide risk—conditions where minors may not disclose to parents due to fear of rejection or harm
  • Scope ambiguity: The phrase "gender-related questions" is undefined, creating uncertainty about whether routine questions (like preferred pronouns or social history) trigger the requirement, potentially chilling clinicians from asking relevant diagnostic questions
  • Access disparities: LGBTQ+ minors with unsupportive parents may avoid healthcare entirely rather than risk disclosure, while minors with supportive parents face unnecessary delays in care coordination

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

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