Tennessee Lawmakers Aim to Expand Access to Genetic Testing

Proposed legislation would eliminate financial barriers for clinically appropriate genetic testing.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:23pm

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Tennessee state legislators have introduced a bill that would remove financial obstacles for patients who require clinically appropriate genetic testing. The legislation is supported by Susan G. Komen, a leading breast cancer organization, as it would provide patients with information on their lifetime cancer risk and access to necessary risk reduction and treatment strategies.

Why it matters

Genetic testing can play a crucial role in early detection and prevention of certain cancers, but cost barriers have limited access for many patients. This proposed legislation in Tennessee seeks to address that issue and empower individuals with knowledge about their health.

The details

The bill was introduced by Representative Rick Scarbrough (R-Oak Ridge) and Senator Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville). If passed, it would eliminate financial barriers that have previously prevented some patients from obtaining clinically appropriate genetic testing.

  • The legislation was introduced in January 2026.

The players

Susan G. Komen

The world's leading breast cancer organization, which has commended the Tennessee legislators for introducing this bill.

Representative Rick Scarbrough

A Republican state legislator from Oak Ridge, Tennessee who introduced the genetic testing access bill.

Senator Richard Briggs

A Republican state senator from Knoxville, Tennessee who introduced the genetic testing access bill alongside Representative Scarbrough.

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What they’re saying

“This legislation ensures patients have information on their lifetime cancer risk and access to needed risk reduction and treatment strategies.”

— Susan G. Komen

The takeaway

Improving access to genetic testing can empower individuals to take proactive steps in managing their health and cancer risk. This proposed legislation in Tennessee represents an important step forward in making these valuable medical tools more widely available.