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HB 2313

Health, Dept. of - As introduced, authorizes the department to establish and administer an early childhood mental health home visiting program as a voluntary, evidence-based and home-based intervention to promote the mental health, developmental progress, and family stability of children from birth to five years of age and their families. - Amends TCA Title 33 and Title 68, Chapter 1.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by David Hawk

Tennessee authorizes Department of Health to establish voluntary, evidence-based home visiting program promoting mental health and family stability for children birth to five years old.

Objected to on Consent Calendar.
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Bill Summary · HB 2313

Legislative bill overview

HB 2313 authorizes Tennessee's Department of Health to create and operate a voluntary home visiting program targeting early childhood mental health for infants and young children (birth to 5 years) and their families. The program would be evidence-based and designed to promote mental health development, developmental progress, and family stability through in-home interventions.

Why is this important

Early intervention programs for young children can reduce long-term mental health issues, improve school readiness, and support family functioning—potentially decreasing future demand for crisis mental health services. The bill addresses a significant gap in Tennessee's early childhood mental health infrastructure, as home-based programs have demonstrated effectiveness in research but remain limited in many states.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: The bill does not specify how the program will be funded, which could require new state appropriations or competing with other health department priorities
  • Voluntary vs. mandatory oversight: While participation is voluntary, questions may arise about who identifies eligible families and how equitable access is ensured across urban/rural areas
  • Evidence-based standards: The bill requires evidence-based practices but leaves specific models undefined, potentially creating implementation inconsistencies or disputes over what qualifies as "evidence-based"

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

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