Hensley Highlights Immigration-Related Legislation from 2026 Session

State Senator Joey Hensley has highlighted several immigration-related measures approved during the 2026 session of the Tennessee General Assembly.

In a legislative update, Hensley said lawmakers passed legislation prohibiting individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States from operating commercial motor vehicles in Tennessee. The law also creates penalties for employers who knowingly allow such individuals to operate commercial vehicles.

Hensley also noted passage of legislation requiring commercial drivers to meet English-language proficiency standards. The law allows law enforcement officers to issue out-of-service orders to commercial drivers who cannot communicate sufficiently in English and establishes penalties for employers who knowingly permit violations.

Additional legislation requires proof of lawful presence before certain professional licenses and certifications may be issued in Tennessee. Lawmakers also expanded E-Verify requirements to all employers in the state and strengthened work authorization verification requirements for state and local government employers.

According to Hensley, another measure requires proof of lawful presence before registering a vehicle and creates a restricted licensing process for certain drivers who do not meet English-language requirements.

Hensley said the legislation is intended to improve public safety, strengthen compliance with immigration laws, and ensure employers verify work authorization for employees.

The 114th General Assembly adjourned earlier this year.