Lawmakers clash over immigration enforcement bill in Tennessee House committee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — One proposed state bill that discussed immigration was presented during the Tennessee House State and Local Government Committee Tuesday.

House Bill 2219 is sponsored by Republican Representative Johnny Garrett and it would require local sheriffs to enter into an agreement with the federal government so they can have delegation authority to enforce immigration laws.

As Rep. Garrett was responding to questions about his bill, chaos erupted with yelling and even cursing from Democratic State Representative Bo Mitchell.

“We’re sick of it. If you are going to bring this s***, you’re going to answer for it,” said Rep. Mitchell.

Representative Vincent Dixie backed Rep. Mitchell.

“Exactly. Stand up there and take the questions,” said Rep. Dixie.

However, Rep. Garrett says his priority is protecting Tennesseans.

“I 100% support what this piece of legislation is trying to do to make sure that we don’t put criminal illegal aliens over the safety and security of Tennesseans,” said Rep. Garrett

Now before the vote was taken to move the bill, individuals were kicked out of the committee hearing.

Ultimately, the bill passed with 17 ayes and 6 nays. After the vote was taken, there were more individuals being escorted out of the hearing.

Since the bill did pass, it is now placed on the House Finance, Ways, and Means Committee.

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