Legislation advances Immigration 2026 agenda to protect lawful residents, put TN first NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Assistant House Majority Leader Mark Cochran, R-Englewood, has introduced legislation to ensure illegal immigrants cannot receive professional licenses in the Volunteer State, a key part of Tennessee Republicans’ Immigration 2026 agenda developed in collaboration with President Donald Trump’s administration. House […]
Legislation advances Immigration 2026 agenda to protect lawful residents, put TN first
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Assistant House Majority Leader Mark Cochran, R-Englewood, has introduced legislation to ensure illegal immigrants cannot receive professional licenses in the Volunteer State, a key part of Tennessee Republicans’ Immigration 2026 agenda developed in collaboration with President Donald Trump’s administration.
House Bill 1709 requires applicants for professional licenses or certificates to provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful residence. The proposal would also ensure reciprocal licenses from other states meet the same criteria before being accepted in Tennessee.
“Tennessee Republicans are leading the way by working with President Donald Trump’s administration to reverse the damage caused by four years of disastrous open border policies,” said Cochran. “Tennesseans deserve to know that state-regulated occupations are filled with law-abiding professionals. This common-sense legislation will preserve trust and integrity in our credentialing process by ensuring licenses are granted only to those legally authorized to work in our state.”
The state of Tennessee grants professional licenses and certifications to ensure applicants have the qualifications to practice their occupation. Examples of roles that require state certification include physicians, dentists, teachers, attorneys, court reporters, aeronautics instructors, private investigators, realtors, and more.
People seeking to practice as a physician could be eligible for a license if they offer proof of an application for a valid visa that would allow them to work in the U.S.
Requiring proof of citizenship or lawful residence in the nation will promote fairness for workers, protect public trust and preserve confidence in the state credentialing process.
House Bill 1709 is part of a major immigration reform package announced by Tennessee Republicans earlier this month. The Immigration 2026 legislative package aims to close enforcement gaps, protect Tennessee taxpayers and require active enforcement of immigration laws across the state.
State Rep. Mark Cochran represents District 23 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes McMinn and part of Monroe counties.