Bill > SB1972

This bill, known as the "Tennessee Veteran Protection and Due Process Act," establishes new protections for veterans facing immigration enforcement actions within the state. It defines a "veteran" as someone who served in the U.S. armed forces and was discharged honorably or under general conditions, and "proof of veteran status" can include documents like a DD-214 or VA records. The act prohibits state and local law enforcement agencies from assisting in immigration enforcement actions against individuals unless federal authorities certify in writing that the person is not a veteran or that their veteran status has been reviewed by the Department of Veterans Affairs; otherwise, state assistance must be withheld. Furthermore, before honoring any immigration detainer or transfer request, state or local law enforcement must inquire about military service and conduct a good-faith review to determine if the individual is a veteran, and if so, they cannot be transferred until their veteran status is verified. The bill also mandates that state or local officers cannot assist in the detention or transfer of a veteran for immigration purposes without a valid judicial warrant and written certification from the requesting agency that veteran-specific immigration relief has been considered. Veterans in state custody facing immigration proceedings must be informed of their right to an attorney knowledgeable in military-related immigration relief and be allowed reasonable access to records to prove their service. Finally, any evidence obtained in violation of this act will be inadmissible in state proceedings, and individuals affected by a violation can seek legal remedies.

Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1972&ga=114