Tennessee – Governor Bill Lee presented a robust agenda on illegal immigration to the Tennessee General Assembly in preparation for the special session starting January 27. The proposal aims to enhance state, local, and federal coordination on immigration enforcement, ensuring public safety and border security.
The plan includes establishing the Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division within the Department of Safety, incentivizing local governments to collaborate with federal programs like 287(g), and raising standards for state-issued identification. Additional measures involve creating a felony offense for sanctuary city policies and funding an Immigration Enforcement Grant Program to assist local law enforcement.
Governor Lee emphasized Tennessee’s longstanding commitment to border security, aligning with federal efforts under the Trump administration. Legislative leaders expressed strong support for the proposal, highlighting its potential to protect communities and uphold state sovereignty.