A crowd is expected to march on Public Square Park in Nashville, urging Governor Bill Haslam to veto the so-called "sanctuary city bill."
The Metro Council already passed a resolution asking Haslam to veto the bill. The march is set for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday and ends with a rally at Legislative Plaza in front of the State Capitol.
Sponsors said the bill would force local law enforcement agencies to ask about someone's immigration and citizen status during routine encounters – helping carry out federal immigration enforcement.
Opponents said HB2315 will force local police departments to play the role of immigration agents – expediting mass deportations that tear families apart.
Tuesday night, council member Erica Gilmore expressed her concern.
“These are citizens who are contributing, our neighbors, people who go to school. It will tear apart families and we don't want to do that,” she said.
Metro Police Chief Steve Anderson said he's concerned the bill could impact public safety.
Opponents are encouraging others with concerns on the bill to reach out to Governor Haslam and ask him to veto it.
Haslam now has until May 22 to veto the bill or let it become law.
Read More:
Metro Council Will Encourage Gov. To Veto Citizen Status Bill MNPS Board Letter Asking Governor To Veto Sanctuary City Bill
Metro Schools' Letter To Gov. Haslam
Metro Police Chief Steve Anderson's Letter To Gov. Haslam
