Tennessee passed a law that criminalizes the stay of illegal immigrants after deportation

Republican legislators in Tennessee approved a bill that seeks to criminalize the stay of undocumented immigrants in the state after receiving a final deportation order, consolidating a stricter approach to immigration and strengthening compliance with federal law. The initiative was backed by the Republican-controlled state Senate with a strong vote of 26 to 6, after having previously received 73 votes in favor and 22 against in the House of Representatives

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If enacted, the law would make it a Class A misdemeanor to remain immigrants who fail to comply with their deportation order within 90 days. Offenders could face up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both penalties. In addition, the bill contemplates an independent crime for those who re-enter the state after being deported, also classified as Class A.

The leader of the Republican majority in the House, William Lamberth, sponsor of the measure, assured that the bill reinforces the legality and security of the state, filling a gap in the application of federal law. “When someone has exhausted all their options and has been ordered to leave the country, it is illegal to remain, both under federal law and, if this bill is approved, under state law,” he said during the House Judiciary Committee hearing

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Supporters of the initiative argue that the measure will strengthen law enforcement and send a clear message that immigration violations will not be tolerated in Tennessee. They say that establishing concrete consequences at the state level reinforces the ability of local authorities to cooperate with federal agencies and deter those who attempt to remain in the state illegally

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This proposal is in addition to a set of measures promoted by Republican legislators in the southern state, including the restriction of public benefits for undocumented immigrants and the expansion of state participation in immigration surveillance. According to the promoters, these coordinated actions seek to ensure that federal immigration policies are effectively enforced and to protect the safety of local communities

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Republican Governor Bill Lee has yet to confirm whether he will sign the bill immediately, though its approval could turn Tennessee into a pilot model for a broader GOP effort to expand state enforcement of immigration law across the country. Analysts highlight that the measure could set an important precedent for how states can supplement federal legislation to strengthen security and legal compliance.

Legislators who support the bill have considered that the measure protects legality, reinforces public safety and establishes a clear framework for addressing irregular immigration. If approved, Tennessee would position itself as an example of how states can take a more active role in implementing immigration policies, sending a strong message about respect for the law and protecting local communities

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