Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced a comprehensive plan to align the state’s policies with President Donald Trump’s intensified efforts against illegal immigration.
Key Components of the Plan:
- Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division: The proposal includes establishing a new division within the Department of Safety, led by a chief immigration enforcement officer appointed by the governor. This division will coordinate directly with federal authorities to enforce immigration laws.
- Enhanced State Identification Laws: State-issued IDs will be restricted to citizens, permanent residents, and individuals with specific federal authorization. Non-citizen IDs will feature distinctive markings, and proof of citizenship will be required for renewing or reinstating driver’s licenses.
- Sanctuary City Prohibition: The legislation proposes making it a felony for local officials to implement sanctuary city policies. The state attorney general would be empowered to initiate removal proceedings against officials convicted of such actions.
- Support for Local Law Enforcement: A grant program will be created to provide training and equipment for local law enforcement agencies to assist in federal and state immigration enforcement efforts.
Governor Lee emphasized Tennessee’s commitment to national security, stating, “President Trump has made it clear that states will play a major role in partnering with his Administration to enforce immigration laws and keep communities safe, and Tennessee is heeding the call.”
Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) expressed support, noting, “With this legislation, Tennessee continues to lead the nation in fighting illegal immigration.”
This initiative positions Tennessee at the forefront of state-level collaboration with federal immigration policies, reflecting a broader trend of states taking active roles in addressing immigration enforcement.