TN HB1046

Individuals may refuse anatomical gifts through signed writing, and terminal patients may refuse through oral statement or other communication, which bars others from making or amending such gifts on their behalf

Procurement organizations are prohibited from contacting next of kin if a decedent refused anatomical gifts, and remains must be immediately released to the funeral home authorized by next of kin

Procurement organizations must contact eligible family members within 6 hours of cessation of heartbeat if the decedent did not refuse tissue donation; failure to meet this deadline requires immediate release of remains to the funeral home

Violations may be reported to the Department of Health or licensing boards, with a $500 civil penalty assessed for the third and each subsequent violation by any organization, hospital, or person

Effective July 1, 2025