The debate surrounding undocumented immigrants is not only happening in Washington D.C., but also taking place within the Tennessee State Capitol.
Rep. Bryan Richey, a Republican from Maryville, has introduced a new bill that aims to impose fines on individuals who knowingly transport undocumented immigrants into the state of Tennessee.
Last week, when the bill was under consideration in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee, many questions arose about the new legislation that would make it illegal for common carriers, such as Delta Airlines or Greyhound Buslines, to engage in the activity, even though it is already prohibited under Tennessee law.
“Is it correct that if they were and he failed to do so, he would personally face fines?” inquired Representative John Gillespie, a Republican from Shelby County.
According to Rep. Richey, the sponsor of the House version, if the pilot knowingly transported the goods, they could be subject to fines as stated in the legislation.
According to Rep. Richey, if an airline pilot or bus driver becomes aware that one of their passengers is an undocumented immigrant, they may be subjected to a fine of $5,000 for each person unlawfully transported. This bill has been championed by Republican leaders, who assert that it is crucial for the final version of the bill to explicitly state that the offender must consciously and intentionally violate the law.
“Of course, we don’t expect bus drivers to be responsible for checking everyone’s identification on a bus. However, if they knowingly transport an illegal immigrant into the state, they should face appropriate penalties,” stated Rep. William Lamberth, a Portland Republican and House Majority Leader. Lamberth supported the bill in the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee.
Naturally, the bill faces opposition from Democrats, who label it as discriminatory.
