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SB 2223

Immigration - As introduced, requires a local government entity to comply with a court order regarding an unlawful sanctuary policy within 120 days of the issuance of the court's order. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 7; Title 8; Title 16; Title 17; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40 and Title 41.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee bill mandates local governments comply with court orders striking down sanctuary immigration policies within 120 days or face enforcement action.

Companion House Bill substituted
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2223

Legislative bill overview

SB 2223 requires local government entities in Tennessee to comply with court orders regarding unlawful sanctuary policies within 120 days of issuance. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee Code Annotated across titles covering local government, courts, criminal procedure, and related matters, establishing enforcement mechanisms for immigration-related policies.

Why is this important

This bill addresses the tension between local and state authority over immigration enforcement, directly impacting how cities and counties can set their own law enforcement priorities. It has significant implications for police-community relations, local budgets (potential costs of compliance), and the relationship between municipal governments and state oversight.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition of "unlawful sanctuary policy": The bill references court determinations of unlawful policies but doesn't define what constitutes a sanctuary policy violation in the bill text itself, potentially creating ambiguity about enforcement
  • Local autonomy vs. state mandates: Conflicts with municipalities' traditional authority to set law enforcement priorities and resource allocation based on community needs
  • Implementation costs: The 120-day compliance timeline may impose unfunded mandates on local governments to restructure policies, training, and procedures without state financial assistance
  • Constitutional questions: Potential challenges regarding state commandeering of local law enforcement resources and conflicting federal-state immigration authority frameworks

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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