Senate Committee To Consider Bill Prohibiting Illegal Aliens From Professional Licensure in Tennessee

February 20, 2026
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HB1709, House Bill 1709, Illegal Aliens, Mark Cochran, Paul Bailey, Professional Licenses, SB1901, Senate Bill 1901, Senate Commerce and Labor Committee, Tennessee, Tennessee General Assembly, Tennessee House of Representatives, Tennessee Senate

Image Credit: TN General Assembly & Antony-22 / CC

Tennessee Conservative News Staff –

The Senate Commerce and Labor Committee is set to consider a bill next week that proposes prohibiting illegal aliens from obtaining professional licenses in the state of Tennessee.

Senate Bill 1901 (SB1901), sponsored by State Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta-D15), would no longer allow illegal aliens to become licensed contractors, realtors, and educators, along with other career fields.

In order to obtain licensure in the affected areas like nursing, teaching, or contracting, individuals would have to provide proof they are a United States citizen or a qualified alien. If unable to provide such proof, they would be required to show proof that they have applied for “a valid visa that would authorize such person to work in the United States under federal law.”

The legislation was passed on first and second consideration and has been placed on the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee’s agenda for Tuesday, February 24.

The companion House Bill 1709 (HB1709), sponsored by State Representative Mark Cochran (R-Englewood-D23), passed the House Business and Utilities Subcommittee on February 18 and has been referred to the House Commerce Committee.

Bill Prohibiting Illegal Aliens From Professional Licensure In Tennessee Passes House Subcommittee

If you would like to give your thoughts on the legislation, please contact members of the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee prior to that meeting by using the contact information below.