Dear Friends,
Yet another deeply troubling bill, SB392/HB322, is making its way through the Tennessee legislature. If passed, this bill would impose criminal penalties on churches, nonprofits, and individuals for providing aid—such as food, shelter, or transportation—to undocumented individuals.
This is a dangerous overreach that threatens religious freedom, charitable organizations, and basic acts of kindness.
Why This Matters
Threatens Religious Freedom – Churches and faith-based organizations could face criminal penalties simply for following their faith’s call to serve.Hurts Vulnerable Communities – This bill does not address immigration issues or housing insecurity—it only makes them worse.Financial Risks for Nonprofits – Defending against legal action could drain resources meant for serving the community.Gives Government Unchecked Power – This bill allows the government to investigate and prosecute private organizations for fulfilling their missions.
Take Action Now!
Call Your Legislators – Urge them to vote NO on SB392/HB322! Find your representative here: TN Legislator Lookup or call (615) 741-1100.Send an Email – Use our script below or personalize your message to explain why this bill is a direct attack on faith and nonprofit communities.Spread the Word – Share this message with faith leaders, community organizations, and friends.
Phone Script – General Concerned Citizen
Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a resident of [City/Town].
I’m calling to urge [Legislator’s Name] to oppose SB392/HB322. This bill criminalizes churches, nonprofits, and community organizations for providing aid to those in need. It sets a dangerous precedent by allowing the government to dictate how faith-based and nonprofit groups can serve their communities.
This bill does nothing to fix immigration issues or support local communities—it only punishes those who help. I urge [Legislator’s Name] to vote NO on SB392/HB322.
Phone Script – Faith Leader
Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a [Pastor/Priest/Rabbi/Faith Leader] at [Place of Worship] in [City/Town].
I’m deeply concerned about SB392/HB322. This bill would criminalize churches and ministries for following our faith’s call to serve those in need, including undocumented individuals. It allows the government to interfere with religious ministries.
I urge [Legislator’s Name] to protect religious freedom and vote NO on SB392/HB322.
Email Script – Concerned Citizen
Subject: Oppose SB392/HB322 – Protect Tennessee’s Faith & Nonprofit Communities
Dear [Legislator’s Name],
I am writing as a concerned [resident of Tennessee/faith leader/nonprofit professional] to strongly oppose SB392/HB322. This bill would make it a crime for churches, nonprofits, and community organizations to assist undocumented individuals, even when fulfilling their core missions of service and charity.
This bill does not solve any immigration issues. Instead, it creates government overreach, threatens religious freedom, and criminalizes charity.
I urge you to vote NO on SB392/HB322 and stand against criminalizing acts of compassion.
Sincerely,[Your Name][Your City]
At La Paz Chattanooga, we stand firm in our commitment to building an inclusive, thriving Tennessee. Join us in taking action today!
Sincerely,
Stacy Johnson
President & CEO
La Paz Chattanooga
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