State Rep. Susan Lynn, R-Mount Juliet, has filed legislation aimed at restoring public trust by ensuring accurate, science-based health messaging.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Susan Lynn, R-Mount Juliet, has filed legislation aimed at restoring public trust by ensuring accurate, science-based health messaging.
The Restore Trust in Public Health Messaging Act, or House Bill 1157, requires local and state health departments to ensure all messaging about FDA-regulated products are consistent with the FDA-approved or authorized labels.
“Trust in public health messaging took a major hit during the COVID-19 pandemic due to of all the conflicting information out there,” Lynn said. “While we can’t help what’s shared on social media or the internet, we can make sure Tennessee’s government agencies are delivering accurate and reliable information.”
A 2024 congressional report on COVID-19 highlighted the necessity for public health agencies to follow the FDA-approved product labeling and their messaging to maintain public trust in health communications.
It also mandates the removal of non-complaint materials and establishes penalties for those who do not comply.
The commissioner of health and the state executive branch will be required to implement an internal review process and submit annual compliance reports.
House Bill 1157 advanced out of the Health Subcommittee on Feb. 26 and is scheduled to be heard in the Health Committee on March 11.
Susan Lynn represents House District 57 which includes part of Wilson County.
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