114th General Assembly: Leading the Fight Against Illegal Immigration - Protecting Our Communities

As your voice in Nashville, I understand that Tennessee families deserve to live in safe communities where laws are respected and taxpayers aren't forced to subsidize those who break our immigration laws. That's why I'm proud to share that the 114th General Assembly passed the most comprehensive legislation for illegal immigration enforcement in the United States.

Our Historic Accomplishments:

Created the Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division - We established a new division within the Tennessee Department of Safety to coordinate with federal and local governments, ensuring seamless cooperation in enforcing immigration laws across all levels of government.

Imposed Life Sentences for Violent Illegal Immigrants - We passed legislation allowing judges to sentence illegal immigrants to life without parole if convicted of violent crimes or offenses involving deadly weapons. This sends a clear message that Tennessee won't tolerate criminal violence from those who shouldn't be here in the first place.

Strengthened Our Sanctuary City Ban with Criminal Penalties - We made our existing sanctuary city ban even stronger by imposing Class E felony charges on local officials who adopt or maintain sanctuary city policies in violation of state law. Local officials who shield criminals from federal authorities will face serious legal consequences.

Created New Felony Offenses - We established specific criminal penalties for smuggling and trafficking illegal immigrants, giving prosecutors better tools to fight human trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable people.

Protected Election Integrity - We enhanced state-issued ID standards to distinguish between citizens and non-citizens, ensuring only individuals with permanent legal status are eligible to vote in Tennessee elections.

The Shocking Numbers: The financial burden on Tennessee taxpayers is staggering:

• Illegal immigration cost Tennessee $971 million in 2023 alone

• That's $4,456 per illegal immigrant that hardworking families had to shoulder

• 2,719 reports of illegal immigrants charged with crimes in just three months (Oct-Dec 2024)

• Including 11 homicides during that same period

• 17,713 unaccompanied alien children released to sponsors in Tennessee between 2021-2024

Supporting Texas at the Border - We authorized Governor Lee to deploy Tennessee National Guard troops to assist Texas in securing our southern border, allocating $6.4 million for this critical mission. When the federal government abandons its constitutional duty to protect our borders, states must step up to do so.

This comprehensive approach demonstrates that Tennessee won't be a magnet for illegal immigration. We welcome those who come here legally and follow our laws, but we refuse to reward those who cut in line and burden our taxpayers.

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Campaign Media Contact:

Zach Stephens

zach@zdstephens.com

Kelly Keisling serves as State Representative for House District 38 which encompasses Macon, Clay, Pickett, Scott, and part of Fentress Counties. To reach State Representative Kelly Keisling, call 615-741-6853 or email him at rep.kelly.keisling@capitol.tn.gov. Connect with Kelly on Facebook and X.

Representative Keisling serves as a member of the Commerce Committee, Banking and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee, Judiciary Committee, and Children and Family Affairs Subcommittee for the 114th General Assembly.