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Immigration Policy

Memphis's Immigration Policy: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Memphis maintains 200 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with immigration policy. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Memphis falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

E-Verify Mandates

Tennessee Code 50-1-703 requires Memphis employers with 35 or more employees to use the federal E-Verify system to confirm work authorization for all new hires. Smaller employers may instead retain copies of identity documents.

Key details: State law: TCA 50-1-703. Threshold: 35+ employees. Alternative: Retain ID copies (under 35). Max penalty: $500/day per violation.

First violation triggers warning; subsequent violations bring $500/day fines and possible business-license suspension up to one year per TCA 50-1-712.

This is one of the stricter rules in Memphis's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Sanctuary Policy Preemption

Tennessee Code 7-68-101 prohibits Memphis and all local governments from adopting sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. MPD must honor ICE detainers and share information when requested by federal authorities.

Key details: State law: TCA 7-68-101. Year enacted: 2018. Penalty: Loss of state funds. MPD policy: Cooperates with ICE.

Cities adopting sanctuary policies forfeit state economic-development grants and may face state attorney general enforcement plus loss of state-shared revenue.

Compared to other cities, Memphis takes a harder line on sanctuary policy preemption. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Memphis is tougher than many cities when it comes to immigration policy. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Memphis, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Memphis can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.