Tennessee House Bill HB1247

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 8; Title 9; Title 12; Title 39; Title 50; Title 66; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to immigration.

Impact

By enforcing this law, HB 1247 would impact state and local housing policies regarding undocumented individuals. Local governments will no longer have the authority to provide housing for illegal aliens on public property, which could lead to debates on how to manage resources and responsibilities regarding individuals without lawful residence. The passage of this bill may compel local entities to seek alternative solutions for dealing with populations affected by these regulations.

Summary

House Bill 1247 amends various titles of the Tennessee Code Annotated to establish restrictions related to the housing of illegal aliens by state and local governments. The bill specifically prohibits housing illegal aliens on property owned by the state or any political subdivision, while exempting housing within correctional institutions. This measure represents a significant shift in how local governments can address immigration-related issues within their jurisdictions, emphasizing a more restrictive stance on illegal immigration.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1247 is largely divisive. Supporters argue that the bill takes a necessary stance on immigration control, asserting that it protects state resources and promotes legal residency. However, opponents view the legislation as discriminatory and potentially harmful to community welfare, as it limits options for housing individuals in need, potentially exacerbating homelessness and social issues within localities.

Contention

The notable points of contention related to HB 1247 center on its implications for local governance and community outreach. Critics argue that the bill undermines local decision-making and hinders efforts to address the needs of the community effectively. Proponents, on the other hand, maintain that the bill will safeguard taxpayer resources by ensuring that public entities are not obligated to support individuals residing illegally in the state. This fundamental disagreement highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy and local versus state authority.