Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has recently unveiled an agenda on illegal immigration which includes the creation of a Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division within the Department of Safety, as reported by the Office of the Governor. This new division will ensure efficient enforcement of immigration laws and provide direct coordination with the federal government on immigration policies. Lee's proposed legislation is set to go before the Tennessee General Assembly during a special session slated for January 27.
In adherence to the Trump administration's stance on immigration, the Governor's plan aims to fortify public safety and reduce crime by enhancing cooperation among state, local, and federal agencies. "Tennessee has a long track record of stepping up to secure our Nation’s borders and strengthening public safety," Governor Lee commented, as stated by the Office of the Governor. He also recognized President Trump's call for states to partner with his Administration to enforce immigration legislation and maintain community safety. The bill seeks to raise the bar for obtaining state-issued IDs, effectively restricting access to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and those who have federal authorization. It also introduces visually distinct markers on temporary licenses for non-U.S. citizens.
The legislation plans to establish accountability at the local level by criminalizing elected officials who harbor undocumented migrants through sanctuary city policies. A Class E felony would be the consequence for officials in violation of the state law, and this would allow the Tennessee Attorney General to initiate removal proceedings against such individuals. Additionally, local governments are encouraged to enter into agreements under the 287(g) program, which assists in detaining and removing individuals violating federal immigration laws. Non-compliant officials could face penalties, aligning local efforts with federal strategies to tackle illegal immigration.
An Immigration Enforcement Grant Program is also part of the legislation, providing funding for local law enforcement agencies. This grant will offer training and resources needed to enforce federal immigration laws more effectively. "Our local law enforcement officers and agencies are on the front lines every day," said Senator Bo Watson, discussing the importance of supporting the endeavor to safeguard communities and ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars. "This legislation will provide them with additional training, equipment, and resources they will need to enforce federal immigration laws quickly and effectively," the Office of the Governor noted.
