Trooper enforcement of immigration laws passes Senate

Mar 19, 2007

NASHVILLE, Tenn. The state Senate voted Monday to give the Tennessee Highway Patrol the authority to enforce immigration laws.

The legislation would authorize the commissioner of the Department of Safety to negotiate an agreement with the U-S Department of Homeland Security concerning enforcement of such laws by Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers.

Following training and certification, the troopers could enforce federal immigration and customs laws while conducting their normal duties.

The companion bill is scheduled to be heard in a subcommittee of the House Transportation Committee on Tuesday.

The Senate bill is sponsored by Mark Norris of Collierville.

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