- 2025, Criminal, Immigration
Criminalizes human smuggling and harboring illegal immigrants in Tennessee.
HB 322 / SB 392
Bill Description
Bill Sponsors
Rep. Chris Todd
Sen. Brent Taylor
Bill Co-Sponsors
House: Lamberth, Leatherwood, Keisling, Doggett, Russell, Atchley, Gant, Hill, Carringer, Martin B, Hulsey, Sherrell, Reneau, Stinnett, Moon, McCalmon, Alexander, Powers, Reedy, Zachary, Capley, Burkhart, Maberry, Barrett, Davis, Butler, Bricken, Terry, Fritts, Cepicky
Senate: Johnson, White, Rose, Harshbarger, Lowe, Seal, Southerland, Hatcher, Bailey, Bowling, Hensley, Jackson, Stevens, Walley, Watson
TLRC Statement on Bill
This bill strengthens Tennessee’s ability to combat illegal immigration by criminalizing human smuggling and holding individuals and organizations accountable for transporting, harboring, or hiding illegal immigrants within the state. This legislation ensures that Tennessee is not a safe haven for human smuggling operations and reinforces state enforcement against illegal immigration.
The bill establishes harsh penalties for those who knowingly transport ten or more adults or five or more minors with the intent to conceal them from law enforcement, or who induce illegal entry or residence within Tennessee for financial gain. These offenses will be classified as a Class E felony, ensuring that those profiting from human smuggling are held accountable.
Additionally, the bill targets those who knowingly harbor or hide illegal immigrants, imposing a fine of $1,000 per individual as a Class A misdemeanor. By penalizing both large-scale smuggling operations and those who aid illegal immigrants in evading detection, this law creates a strong deterrent against human smuggling networks operating in Tennessee.
Illegal immigration places a heavy financial burden on Tennessee taxpayers and jeopardizes public safety. This bill aligns with ongoing national efforts to secure the border and combat human trafficking, ensuring that Tennessee does not become a destination for those seeking to violate immigration laws.
By passing HB 322 / SB 392, Tennessee takes a decisive stand against human smuggling and illegal immigration, reinforcing state sovereignty and the rule of law.
