Tennessee bill would charge pregnant women using drugs if baby is harmed, born addicted

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Pregnant women who use illegal drugs while expecting may be prosecuted if they harm their babies or make them addicted, if a proposed law passes in Tennessee.

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WZTV reported that House Bill 1168 was filed last week by Rep. Terri Lynn Weaver (R-Lancaster) and Sen. Janice Bowling (R-Tullahoma).

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According to the bill, if a woman uses an illegal narcotic while pregnant and if the child is born addicted to the drug or harmed by it, could be charged for assault. If the woman is active in an addiction recovery program and completes it, the charges may be lessened.

WTHR reported that, if passed as law, it will be in effect July 1.

Cox Media Group