Last Monday, a bill was introduced in Nashville that would allow pregnant women to use parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities. This was officially reported by WSMV, NBC’s affiliate in Nashville.
It was introduced by Gino Bulso, a Republican state representative from Brentwood. The bill would allow women in their second or third trimester of pregnancy—or those with high-risk pregnancies—to be added to the list of people who qualify for a temporary disabled parking permit.
Parking spots for pregnant women
The representative was clear about the reasons: “Pregnant women often experience mobility issues and side effects during pregnancy that can make daily tasks physically difficult.” This legislation recognizes the importance of welcoming new life into the world, as well as alleviating some of the difficulties associated with pregnancy.
United families are the foundation of the state of Tennessee, and this is an important step in promoting and protecting life in this state. A society that places the utmost importance on family unity, the protection of new generations, and the protection of women must reflect the care of these sectors of the population in its regulations. This bill is nothing more than a reflection of the values and ethics of American society.
For now, only the states of Florida and Illinois have similar provisions to help pregnant women on a daily basis. Although the bill has only been introduced, it will be officially discussed during the legislative session on January 13, 2026.
Tennessee is one of the most pro-life states in the country, and Republicans continue to encourage strong family unity and protect the most vulnerable members of society.
In 2024, Bulso passed the Baby Olivia Act to educate students about the biological process of human fetal development, from conception to birth. This year, he passed a new law to introduce students in family life classes to the sequence of success, a series of proven life decisions that are closely linked to overcoming poverty, upward mobility, and improved personal and social outcomes.
Current disability permits
Currently, temporary and permanent parking permits for people with disabilities are given to residents with various abilities, such as wheelchair users, walking disabilities, and 20/200 or worse vision with corrective lenses.
People who use braces or crutches, people with lung or heart conditions, and parents of children with permanent disabilities are also eligible for permits.
To apply for a permit that allows you to park in accessible spaces, you must include a medical statement with your application.
Other Tennessee laws that protect the family
The bill that seeks to give pregnant women access to parking is not an isolated case. For years, the state of Tennessee has been very active legislatively on issues related to family, child protection, and parental rights.
For example, last year Tennessee passed a temporary measure eliminating sales tax on diapers, wet wipes, and infant formula (HB 1637 / SB 1755) from July 2024 to June 30, 2025. There are proposals to try to make this benefit permanent in future sessions.
In addition, Tennessee became the first state to receive federal approval to cover the cost of diapers through Medicaid. It provides 100 diapers per month for children under two years of age who are enrolled in the program.
For state employees, paid paternity leave was extended. They can now take up to six weeks off not only for the birth of a child, but also to care for family members at the end of their lives. Adoptive parents can also access this program from the moment the child moves in with them.
Another law that came into effect in July 2024 changed the legal standard in custody cases. From now on, all courts presume that legal custody will be shared, and parenting time will be equal. This was a significant victory for parents’ rights groups seeking equality after divorce.