Tennessee legislator proposed classifying mRNA products as bioweapons

Tennessee Republican Senator Janice Bowling introduced Senate Bill 1949, titled the ‘mRNA Bioweapons Prohibition Act’, which sought to classify mRNA-based medical products as biological weapons of mass destruction. The proposal aimed to criminalize the manufacturing, possession, and distribution of these products, including COVID-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer and Moderna, as Class B felonies.

The bill specifically targeted modified mRNA technology, such as that using N-methyl-pseudouridine, while exempting natural mRNA found in the human body. Proponents argued the measure was intended to protect public safety, whereas health and scientific experts warned that such a broad ban could stifle medical innovation in areas like cancer treatment.

Legislative records show the bill passed its first and second readings in early 2026 before being referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 2, 2026. The bill did not advance past the committee and failed to become law before the end of the legislative session.