Senate Bill 1972, also 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 new part in the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 58, Chapter 3, which includes definitions related to immigration enforcement actions and veteran status. It prohibits state or local law enforcement agencies from assisting in deportation actions against individuals unless there is written certification 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 have 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.