Tennessee Senate Approves Bill Creating Felony Charge For Any Elected Officials Who Adopt Pro-Migrant Policies

Nashville’s ABC affiliate reports:

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.

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.

“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.”

Read the full article. Monty Fritts appeared here in 2023 when the Tennessee House approved his bill allowing officiants to refuse to conduct same-sex, interfaith, and interracial marriages.