Bill > SB6002

This bill establishes a comprehensive set of measures related to immigration enforcement in Tennessee, creating a new centralized immigration enforcement division within the Department of Safety headed by a chief immigration enforcement officer appointed by the governor. The bill creates an immigration enforcement grant program to incentivize local governments and law enforcement agencies to participate in federal immigration enforcement efforts, particularly through the 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to collaborate with federal immigration authorities. The legislation introduces criminal penalties for local officials who adopt "sanctuary policies" that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, including potential removal from office for violations. Additionally, the bill modifies driver's license regulations for non-U.S. citizens, requiring lawful permanent residents to receive temporary driver's licenses instead of standard licenses, with a distinctive marker to help distinguish them for voter eligibility purposes. The bill also mandates that the chief immigration enforcement officer oversee state and local collaboration with federal immigration agencies, develop strategic enforcement plans, coordinate immigration program participation, and provide annual reports on immigration-related progress and challenges. The legislation is designed to strengthen state-level immigration enforcement and cooperation with federal authorities, with various provisions taking effect at different times between the bill's passage and January 1, 2026.