Immigration 2026 Agenda Moves Forward: Bill Barring Illegal Immigrants From Professional Licensure Passes House Sub-Committee
Tennessee Today

On Wednesday, another piece of the Republicans’ expansive immigration agenda moved forward with the passage of HB 1709 through the House Business & Utilities Subcommittee. 

This bill would prevent illegal immigrants from holding professional licenses by requiring documentation of citizenship or of status as a qualified alien. Over 30 different professions are covered by this legislation, including everything from teachers to lawyers to beekeepers and beyond. This new requirement would apply not only to those applying for or renewing a license in Tennessee, but also to those wishing to practice in Tennessee who have a reciprocal license from another state. 

During discussion, the bill’s sponsor, Representative Mark Cochran (R-Englewood), explained the ease in which this legislation could be implemented, stating, “When I say the process is in place, I mean the process of confirming documents to make sure that you have the proper degrees, the proper continuing education, to make sure that you don’t have a criminal record… The boards are already checking all these things to make sure you meet the requirements to hold licensure in the state of Tennessee. This would be one additional thing that they check.” He proceeded to emphasize that providing this documentation would not incur additional costs for either the applicant or the state.  

Earlier this month, in regard to the intent of the bill, Cochran stated, “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 legislation easily passed through the committee, with a vote of 7-2 down party lines. It was sent to the House Commerce Committee.