(The Center Square) – Republican lawmakers’ plan for immigration includes a new division within Tennessee’s Department of Public Safety and punishment for sanctuary cities.
The Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division would be led by someone appointed by the governor to work with the Trump administration, according to information released by Gov. Bill Lee and Republican legislative leaders Wednesday.
The package up for consideration at Monday’s special session includes the creation of a new Class E felony for local officials who agree to become sanctuary cities.
“This bold proposal will help alleviate the burden of illegal immigration on local governments by centralizing immigration enforcement, making it easier for the state and local governments to work with federal authorities to remove dangerous illegal immigrants from our communities,” said Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, R-Franklin, who is sponsoring the bill in his chamber. “Additionally, we are taking action to hold local officials accountable for unlawfully harboring illegal immigrants, in clear violation of our state’s sanctuary city ban.”
Local law enforcement agencies could face penalties for not enforcing immigration laws, according to lawmakers. The legislation also established a grant program to train local police on enforcing immigration policies.
“Our local law enforcement officers and agencies are on the front lines every day,” said Sen. Bo Watson, R-Hixson, the Senate co-prime sponsor on the bill. “This legislation will provide them with additional training, equipment, and resources they will need to enforce federal immigration laws quickly and effectively.”
Other legislation includes stricter standards for state-issued identifications, including a marker on temporary licenses issued to noncitizens.
Lawmakers said they were supporting President Donald Trump, who signed a proclamation on Monday declaring an invasion at the southern border and suspended entry from the border effective immediately.
“Tennessee’s commitment to enforcing immigration law has never been in question,” said Republican Lt. Gov. Randy McNally. “This legislation allows us to put that commitment into action now that we have a willing federal partner in President Trump. This bill will enable us to aid the federal government in the efficient identification and deportation of aliens with violent felonies and extensive criminal records.”