WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1741

Correction, Dept. of - As enacted, authorizes the department to adopt or amend a formulary for use in the correctional facilities operated by or on behalf of the department. - Amends TCA Title 8; Title 41; Title 53; Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Elaine Davis

Tennessee bill requires insurers prioritize non-opioid pain treatments over opioids on preferred drug lists for incarcerated individuals to reduce opioid dependency.

Signed by Governor.
#correction #dept.of
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1741

Legislative bill overview

HB 1741 requires insurers offering coverage for incarcerated individuals in Tennessee to prioritize non-opioid pain management alternatives on their preferred drug lists (PDLs). The bill mandates that FDA-approved non-opioid treatments cannot be disadvantaged relative to opioid or narcotic drugs in terms of coverage, copays, or other insurance mechanisms.

Why is this important

The opioid crisis has significantly impacted correctional facilities, where incarcerated individuals often have high rates of substance use disorders and pain conditions. By structurally incentivizing non-opioid alternatives within prison healthcare systems, the bill aims to reduce opioid dependency, overdose risks, and medication diversion while improving pain management outcomes. This approach addresses both public health and the specific vulnerability of incarcerated populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Non-opioid pain treatments may have different pricing structures; insurers and states may face higher premiums or healthcare costs if non-opioids are more expensive or require additional monitoring
  • Clinical flexibility concerns: Mandatory PDL restrictions could limit physician discretion in individual cases where opioids may be medically necessary, potentially creating liability questions
  • Implementation burden: Requires coordination across multiple state administrative codes (8 titles amended) and may impose compliance costs on insurers and correctional health providers
  • Effectiveness uncertainty: Limited data on whether PDL incentives alone will meaningfully reduce opioid use in correctional settings versus other systemic factors

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

Sign in to ask a question.