The debate surrounding undocumented immigrants is not confined to Washington D.C.; it is also unfolding at the Tennessee State Capitol.
A new legislation proposed by Rep. Bryan Richey, R-Maryville, aims to impose fines on individuals who knowingly transport undocumented immigrants into Tennessee.
The new legislation in Tennessee aims to make it illegal for common carriers, such as Delta Airlines or Greyhound Buslines, to engage in the activity of transporting individuals who are in the country illegally. This has raised numerous questions and concerns since the bill was presented in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee. It is important to note that currently, this practice is already illegal under Tennessee law.
“Is it correct,” inquired Representative John Gillespie, a Republican from Shelby County, “that if they were indeed in violation and he failed to take action, he would face personal fines?”
Rep. Richey, the sponsor of the House version, explained that according to the legislation, if the pilot knowingly transported them, they could be fined. The legislation specifically mentions the terms “knowingly or recklessly”.
According to Rep. Richey, airline pilots and bus drivers may be subject to a fine of $5,000 for each undocumented immigrant they transport. Republican leaders have expressed their support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that the offender knowingly violated the law.
“Of course, it is not our intention to burden individuals who unknowingly or unintentionally transport someone. We understand that bus drivers, for instance, cannot be expected to check every passenger’s identification. However, if someone knowingly transports an illegal immigrant into our state, they are already breaking the law. In such cases, we are simply discussing appropriate penalties,” expressed Rep. William Lamberth, a Portland Republican who holds the position of House Majority Leader. Lamberth supported the bill during the voting process in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee.”
Earlier this week, a rally opposing this bill also took place. You can find more information about the demonstration here.
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