Tennessee's House of Representatives voted 69 — 25 on April 18 to authorize the state's attorney general to sue the federal government for not consulting with the state on the placement of refugees.
The move mimics similar efforts in Texas and Alabama, but Tennessee becomes the first state that would sue on the grounds of the 10th amendment, which dictates that all powers not explicitly delegated to the federal government in the Constitution belong to the states. Both Texas and Alabama have already filed suit against the federal government, citing the Refugee Act of 1980, which requires that the feds "consult regularly" with the states.
"We are a sovereign state representative and it's time we start acting like it," said the Tennessee bill's sponsor Rep. Terri Lynn Weaver.
The Tennessean reports:
Proponents of the legislation argue the federal government has forced the state to participate in refugee resettlement despite the fact that Tennessee has opted not to administer the effort. The state, however, is still partaking in the program through Catholic Charities, which is administering resettlement.
Sponsors of the measure, which was easily approved in the Senate in February, say it is necessary because the federal government has failed to consult with the state on the placement of refugees. Advocates also cite security concerns while saying the feds have shifted the cost of administering the program to Tennessee.
Opponents, including several House Democrats who spoke in opposition to the resolution on Monday, argue it will negatively affect the state's refugee community and perpetuate a culture of fear.
Read more at The Tennessean.
Got something to say about what you're reading? We value your feedback!