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

SB 1949: Criminal Offenses - As introduced, enacts the "mRNA Bioweapons Prohibition Act," which prohibits the manufacture, acquisition, possession, or making accessible to others of mRNA injections and products; requires state and local government officials to use all lawful means necessary to investigate or enforce suspected violations; punishes violations the same as manufacturing, acquiring, possessing, or transferring a weapon of mass destruction, which is a Class B felony. - Amends TCA Title 8; Title 14; Title 39; Title 40; Title 53; Title 63 and Title 68.

In committee Last action February 2, 2026: Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Judiciary Committee

Plain-language summary

SB 1949 is a bill introduced in the Tennessee Senate on January 21, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: Criminal Offenses - As introduced, enacts the "mRNA Bioweapons Prohibition Act," which prohibits the manufacture, acquisition, possession, or making accessible to others of mRNA injections and products; requires state and local government officials to use all lawful means necessary to investigate or enforce suspected violations; punishes violations the same as manufacturing, acquiring, possessing, or transferring a weapon of mass destruction, which is a Class B felony. - Amends TCA Title 8; Title 14; Title 39; Title 40; Title 53; Title 63 and Title 68. Primary sponsor: Janice Bowling (Republican). Most recent recorded action (February 2, 2026): Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Judiciary Committee.

Sponsors

Primary sponsor: Janice Bowling (Republican).