NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — In a 26-7 vote, state senators approved SB6002 Wednesday, which will create criminal penalties (Class E felony) for officials who adopt sanctuary policies. According to the bill's text, officials can also be removed upon conviction.
In addition, the bill requires the Department of Public Safety to issue lawful permanent residents a temporary driver's license instead of a standard license. The temporary license will reportedly be used to help determine voter eligibility for someone who presents a Tennessee driver's license as identification.
State Sen. Todd Gardenhire (R-Chattanooga) was the only Republican to vote against the bill.
State Rep. Justin Jones (D-Nashville) spoke during the hearing. He said he believes the bill is unconstitutional and restricts lawmakers' ability to represent their constituents.
"Now this is the only time we are going to have a Tennessee law that says if you vote in the affirmative, you will be charged with a felony," said Jones.
Jones went on to compare the bill to 1689 English Bill of Rights, which he said was the British monarchy using legal measures to intimidate and punish legislators.
During the hearing, Republican lawmakers discussed what they call a lawless border and need for immigration enforcement to deport undocumented criminals.
"Not just human beings but criminal gangs come into these United States and into Tennessee," said state Rep. Monty Fritts (R-Kingston). "Drug trafficking and human trafficking has been increased by this lawless border condition that was allowed to exist."
As the bill was discussed, lawmakers had troopers with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) remove people they considered disruptive.
This bill now awaits a House vote and then if approved, Governor Bill Lee's signature.