First term Representative Kevin Brooks from Cleveland, TN wanted immigration reform in Tennessee to reflect his constituents cries for an end to the bleeding from costs associated with the huge influx of illegal aliens in the State.

Local Rep Talks About His Failed Immigration Bill


By Collins Parker
Created Mar 22 2007 - 7:44pm

[0]Rep. Kevin BrooksThis is a Press Release from Rep. Kevin Brooks:

When Representative Kevin Brooks, (R-Cleveland) signed on as a prime co-sponsor of House Bill 424, he hoped to bring about much needed reform to the immigration laws in Tennessee. "The need to insure all drivers in our communities can read and understand all traffic signs and driving laws is vital," stated Rep. Brooks.

House Bill 424 failed after some lawmakers voiced their concerns over the economic impact of the bill. Supporters argued, however, that the intent of the bill was the safety of the public, noting that road signs across the state are only in English and people need to demonstrate a mastery of the language in order to safely drive on our roads. The bill would have required all driving tests to be given in English only.

Representative Brooks also signed on as co-prime sponsor of House Bill 491. The same House Transportation sub-committee also voted down this piece of legislation that would have allowed the Tennessee Highway Patrol to enter into an agreement with federal immigration officials to train the THP to enforce immigration laws. Representative Brooks stated, "It is imperative that all law enforcement agencies communicate and work together for the safety and protection of our citizens. The residents of the 24th District voiced concern over illegal immigration throughout the entire campaign cycle. We must be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem."

Detractors however, voiced opposition to the bill because they felt that illegal immigration is the federal government’s responsibility, not the states and they were concerned that the bill would give officers a free pass to engage in racial profiling. Six voted against the measure, with five voting in favor.

Supporters of the bill pointed out that there is a similar successful agreement in Alabama to expedite the deportation of illegal immigrants. And as illegal immigration problems continue to become a more pressing concern, states must respond by working with the federal government to solve it.


Representative Kevin Brooks represents the 24th District in the State Legislature.
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