Tennessee · 114th Regular Session (2025-2026) · Bill

SB 1743: Tort Liability and Reform - As introduced, expands the definition of a person for whom a wrongful death action may be brought to include an unborn child beginning at fertilization, rather than in utero; extends the period of time from two to three years after which a spouse is rebuttably presumed to have abandoned a deceased spouse for purposes of bringing a wrongful death claim. - Amends TCA Title 20 and Section 63-6-1102.

In committee Last action March 24, 2026: Failed in Senate Judiciary Committee

Plain-language summary

SB 1743 is a bill introduced in the Tennessee Senate on January 16, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: Tort Liability and Reform - As introduced, expands the definition of a person for whom a wrongful death action may be brought to include an unborn child beginning at fertilization, rather than in utero; extends the period of time from two to three years after which a spouse is rebuttably presumed to have abandoned a deceased spouse for purposes of bringing a wrongful death claim. - Amends TCA Title 20 and Section 63-6-1102. Primary sponsor: Janice Bowling (Republican). Most recent recorded action (March 24, 2026): Failed in Senate Judiciary Committee.

Sponsors

Primary sponsor: Janice Bowling (Republican).