Immigration Task Force in Tennessee

A sign of the evolving demographics in the country:

State Rep. Eric Watson (R-Bradley County) last week announced that he will be serving on a newly-formed task force to study immigration and citizenship policies in Tennessee. The task force was formed in response to increasing use of state services by illegal immigrants.

“Although immigration is largely a federal issue, states have much authority regarding a number of state-related services such as driving privileges,” said Rep. Watson. “With this task force, we will be looking at proactive measures taken by other states on a number of immigration issues.”

“Rep. Watson’s 15-year career in law enforcement makes him an ideal candidate for this task force,” stated House Republican Leader Bill Dunn (R-Knoxville). “He brings a great deal of knowledge and experience to the issues the state faces regarding immigration.”

“We are hearing from Tennesseans that this is an issue of concern and as Republicans we want to address those issues,” stated Caucus Chairman Charles Sargent (R-Franklin). “Protecting our government services will only lead to a stronger, healthier state. We must focus on dealing with the cost of illegal immigration to our state government, the use of our state resources and various security and identification issues.”

Rep. Watson serves the 22nd legislative district in the Tennessee House of Representatives, which includes Polk, Meigs and portions of Bradley County. He is a Deputy Sheriff in Bradley County.

source: The Chattanoogan, Jan. 24, 2006

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