(1) The general assembly finds that Tennesseans are increasingly concerned that mothers and newborns receive proper medical care prior to hospital discharge. The general assembly further finds that the lack of proper medical care jeopardizes the health, safety and well-being of the mothers and newborns and may result in serious, costly repercussions not only for the mothers and newborns but also for the entire state. The general assembly, therefore, finds and declares the existence of an immediate and substantial threat to the public health, safety and welfare. The general assembly acknowledges and endorses the recently promulgated emergency rules of the departments of finance and administration and commerce and insurance to timely address these important concerns.
(2) In accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, the departments are authorized to promulgate permanent rules establishing minimum standards of coverage for maternity benefits offered by insurers. The rules will establish standards sufficient to protect and promote the health, safety and well-being of both the post-partum mother and the newborn and recognize the relationship between the mother and physician.