Bill > HB0322

This bill introduces new criminal offenses related to human smuggling in Tennessee, establishing legal provisions that specifically target individuals and organizations involved in transporting or hiding people who have illegally entered or remained in the United States. The bill creates two primary offenses: human smuggling and aggravated human smuggling, both of which are defined as felonies with varying degrees of severity. Human smuggling becomes a Class E felony when committed for financial gain and involves knowingly transporting or concealing individuals who have illegally entered the country, while aggravated human smuggling - which involves smuggling a victim under 13 years old - is classified as a more serious Class A felony. The bill also expands the legal definition of "human trafficking offense" to include several related criminal acts and defines "organization" broadly to encompass various business and legal entities. Additionally, the bill grants the attorney general significant enforcement powers, allowing them to take actions against persons or organizations involved in human trafficking, such as seeking injunctions, revoking business licenses, appointing receivers, or involuntarily dissolving organizations. Importantly, the bill includes exceptions for licensed attorneys providing legal advice and healthcare providers offering medical services. The new law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply to offenses committed on or after that date.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0322&ga=114