Senate Bill 1972, known as the "Tennessee Veteran Protection and Due Process Act," aims to enhance protections for veterans in Tennessee against immigration enforcement actions. The bill establishes a framework that prohibits state or local law enforcement agencies from assisting in the deportation of veterans unless there is written certification from federal authorities confirming that the individual is not a veteran or that their veteran status has been verified by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Additionally, the bill mandates that law enforcement agencies conduct a good-faith review of records to determine an individual's veteran status before honoring any immigration detainer or transfer request.

The legislation also introduces judicial safeguards, requiring law enforcement officers to present a valid judicial warrant and written certification that veteran-specific immigration relief has been considered before detaining or transferring a veteran for immigration purposes. Furthermore, it ensures that veterans in state custody are informed of their right to consult an attorney and have access to necessary records to establish their military service. Any evidence obtained in violation of this act is deemed inadmissible in state proceedings, and individuals affected by violations can seek injunctive or declaratory relief.