Tennessee immigration office exempt from public records laws

Tennessee's new immigration enforcement office, created by a law signed on February 12, will be largely exempt from public records laws. This means the public and media may have limited access to information about the office's activities. The law allows the office to keep records confidential, including sensitive law enforcement information. Critics argue this broad exemption could prevent transparency and limit public knowledge about immigration enforcement efforts in the state. The legislation also criminalizes local officials who support sanctuary policies. Advocates for immigrant rights express concern that the law may increase fear within immigrant communities and reduce access to legal assistance.