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SB 48

Opioids - As enacted, adds Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC, Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc., Indivior Inc., Viatris Inc., and Purdue Pharma L.P. to the list of companies that may be released by the attorney general and reporter for pending or future claims regarding opioids. - Amends TCA Title 20 and Title 33.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ferrell Haile

Tennessee releases six opioid manufacturers from pending and future liability claims, potentially limiting state compensation for addiction-related harms in exchange for settlements.

Pub. Ch. 302
#opioids
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Bill Summary · SB 48

Legislative bill overview

SB 48 adds six pharmaceutical companies (Amneal, Hikma, Sun Pharmaceutical, Indivior, Viatris, and Purdue Pharma) to Tennessee's list of opioid manufacturers that can be released from liability for pending or future opioid-related claims. This enables the state's attorney general and reporter to settle or dismiss claims against these specific companies regarding opioid-related harms.

Why is this important

Opioid litigation has generated significant settlements nationwide, with states using recovered funds for addiction treatment and prevention. This bill determines which companies receive liability protection versus continued legal exposure in Tennessee, directly affecting potential compensation for opioid victims and the state's litigation strategy.

Potential points of contention

  • Settlement trade-offs: The bill doesn't specify what compensation Tennessee receives in exchange for releasing these companies, raising questions about whether settlements adequately fund treatment programs
  • Equity concerns: Adding companies to the release list may limit future claims from affected communities if new evidence of harm emerges after settlement
  • Transparency: The bill provides minimal detail on settlement terms, making it unclear whether taxpayers benefit proportionally or whether some companies receive preferential treatment

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

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