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SB 1790

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)

Tennessee law requires insurers covering inmates to ensure non-opioid pain drugs receive equal or better coverage than opioids on preferred drug lists.

Companion House Bill substituted
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Bill Summary · SB 1790

Legislative bill overview

SB 1790 allows insurers offering coverage to incarcerated individuals in Tennessee to create or modify preferred drug lists (PDLs) with a key requirement: non-opioid pain medications approved by the FDA cannot be disadvantaged compared to opioids in coverage terms. The bill amends multiple Tennessee code sections governing insurance, corrections, and healthcare.

Why is this important

Opioid addiction and pain management in correctional facilities represent a significant public health challenge. This bill attempts to shift institutional incentives away from opioid prescribing toward non-opioid alternatives by preventing insurers from creating financial barriers to non-opioid options. The policy reflects broader national efforts to address prescription opioid dependency while managing legitimate pain treatment needs.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Non-opioid alternatives may have different pricing structures; requiring equal or favorable coverage could increase insurance premiums or reduce insurer flexibility in cost management
  • Medical complexity: Pain management is individualized; mandating non-opioid preference might limit physician discretion in cases where opioids are medically appropriate despite abuse risks
  • Enforcement ambiguity: The term "disadvantaged or discouraged" lacks precise definition, potentially creating compliance disputes over copay structures, prior authorization requirements, and formulary placement
  • Scope limitations: Applies only to inmates with active insurance coverage, potentially creating gaps for uninsured incarcerated populations

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

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