Tennessee Republicans are taking a bold stand against nonprofit organizations housing illegal aliens with a new bill that could make these entities liable for crimes committed by migrants they shelter. If Democrats want to help people commit crimes, then they’re going to be held accountable for it.
At a glance:
• Tennessee House Bill 811 would hold nonprofits and charities accountable for crimes committed by illegal immigrants they house
• The legislation is co-sponsored by Republican Senator Brent Taylor and Representative Rusty Grills
• Organizations could be liable for loss, damages, injury, or death caused by a migrant’s criminal actions
• The bill is designed as a deterrent to prevent organizations from harboring undocumented immigrants
• Critics argue the bill unfairly burdens charitable organizations and churches that provide humanitarian assistance
Tennessee Takes Strong Stand on Immigration Enforcement
Tennessee is joining a growing number of states stepping up to enforce immigration laws as President Trump calls for greater state involvement in border security. The proposed legislation comes as part of a broader Republican-led effort to combat illegal immigration at the state level and hold accountable those who harbor undocumented individuals.
Governor Bill Lee has emphasized Tennessee’s commitment to border security, stating, “Tennessee has a long track record of stepping up to secure our nation’s borders and strengthening public safety. President Trump has made it clear that states will play a major role in partnering with his administration to enforce immigration laws and keep communities safe, and Tennessee is heeding the call.”
Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson voiced strong support for the state’s efforts to enforce immigration laws. “We are taking action to hold local officials accountable for unlawfully harboring illegal immigrants, in clear violation of our state’s sanctuary city ban. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the Trump administration to uphold the rule of law and protect state sovereignty,” Johnson said.
House Bill 811 is part of a package of immigration-related bills being considered in Tennessee. Another proposed measure would make supporting sanctuary cities a Class E Felony, punishable by fines and imprisonment, signaling Republicans’ determination to crack down on illegal immigration throughout the state.
Nonprofits Face New Accountability Measures
Under House Bill 811, charitable organizations could be held liable if an illegal immigrant they house commits a crime resulting in loss, damages, injury, or death. The legislation is specifically designed to deter organizations from harboring undocumented immigrants without reporting them to proper authorities.
Representative Rusty Grills, who co-sponsored the bill, explained the legislation’s intent: “The person that has committed that towards, they have a civil right of action against you.” Grills further clarified that “The intention of this bill is not to incriminate those who provide temporary housing for a homeless shelter,” suggesting amendments are planned to clarify the bill’s scope.
Churches and nonprofits have historically provided sanctuary and humanitarian assistance to migrants, regardless of immigration status. The new legislation has raised concerns among these organizations about their continued ability to provide charitable services without facing potential legal repercussions.
Democrats are going to fight this new law, should it pass, tooth and nail. But we expected that, didn’t we?
