Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Veterans Protections topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Representative Glenn advances Tennessee Veteran Protection and Due Process Act to full committee
Summary
HB 1961 would require verification steps before state or local officers assist in immigration detention or transfer of individuals who may be veterans—asking about service, reviewing records, and seeking federal certification or a judicial warrant; supporters said the bill protects veterans from mistaken detentions and it advanced unanimously from the subcommittee.
Representative Glenn presented HB 1961 as directed at preventing mistaken detentions of veterans during immigration enforcement. He said Tennessee should not assist in detention or transfer of someone claiming veteran status without first verifying service and preserving due-process protections. "Specifically, this bill requires law enforcement to ask whether an individual has served in the armed forces before honoring an immigration detained or transfer request," Glenn said, describing requirements for a good-faith records review and written federal certification when available.
The committee approved the bill to move to the full committee (7 ayes, 0 nos). Glenn said the bill does not grant immigration status or prevent immigration enforcement; it sets guardrails and remedies if those guardrails are violated.
