On Friday, April 3, 2026, the Tennessee Lookout reported that the Tennessee House approved a bill that could discipline judges who obstruct federal immigration law. The bill, however, does not specify what judicial actions would constitute obstruction.
The legislation, identified as HB1707/SB1952, was sponsored by Republican Representatives Rick Scarbrough of Oak Ridge and Senator Paul Rose of Shelby County. In response to a request from Democratic State Rep. Gloria Johnson of Knoxville for examples of obstruction, Scarbrough stated that the bill was intended to set clear guidelines. Johnson also pointed out that judges can already be referred to a disciplinary board for any allegation of misconduct.
According to Scarbrough, the bill is a proactive measure. He stated that having a policy to address certain situations is important for any agency.
The House approved the bill with a 71-24 vote along party lines. This bill is one of many put forth by Tennessee Republicans that target immigrants without legal status this year. On the same day, the Senate approved a bill aimed at commercial vehicle companies and their drivers. This bill makes it a crime for employers to hire commercial vehicle operators without legal immigration status. It also subjects commercial vehicle license holders to arrest for driving in Tennessee without proof of legal immigration status.
This legislation is part of the Republican’s “immigration 2026” agenda and is making its way through the legislative process as the session nears its end.
According to the legislation discussed in the Senate, a judge who obstructs lawful operations by the United States Department of Homeland Security or federal immigration authorities acting in the enforcement of federal immigration law may be referred to the board of judicial conduct for proceedings. The findings of these proceedings could lead to removal under the Tennessee Constitution.
Source: Tennessee Lookout
