Legislation advances TN Republicans’ Immigration 2026 agenda to protect lawful residents
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The General Assembly this week passed legislation by Deputy Speaker Jason Zachary, R-Knoxville, to protect Tennessee residents from illegal aliens operating commercial motor vehicles (CMV) in the Volunteer State.
House Bill 1706 establishes a Class A misdemeanor for illegal aliens operating a CMV in Tennessee and a Class A misdemeanor for a direct employer to knowingly allow a person unlawfully in the United States to operate a CMV.
“As blue states jeopardize American lives by recklessly issuing commercial driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants, Tennessee is taking decisive action to keep all families safe on our roads,” said Zachary. “This legislation restores consistency and integrity in the law by ensuring only lawful residents can operate commercial vehicles in the Volunteer State. I appreciate the support of my Republican colleagues in standing with me to prioritize the well-being and best interests of Tennesseans.”
The proposal requires law enforcement agencies to notify federal immigration authorities after arresting a person accused of violating this measure through the 287(g) program or Tennessee’s Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division.
Employers who knowingly allow illegal aliens to operate a CMV and state officials or employees of any state who issue a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to an illegal alien could be held liable to a person who suffers personal injury or property damage as a result, according to House Bill 1706.
Commercial motor vehicles in Tennessee include any vehicle or combination of vehicles used to transport people or property with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of at least 26,001 pounds, with certain exceptions. Most vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers or that are used to transport hazardous materials are also considered CMVs.
At least 30 people died in 2025 in 17 fatal crashes caused by unqualified non-domiciled truck drivers, according to the United States Department of Transportation.
The Immigration 2026 legislative package is designed to close enforcement gaps, protect Tennessee taxpayers and require active enforcement of immigration laws across the state.
House Bill 1706 now heads to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk. It will take effect July 1.
State Rep. Jason Zachary represents District 14 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes part of Knox County.