Senate Bill 2497, also known as House Bill 2249, amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to establish protections for certain facilities from federal immigration enforcement activities. Specifically, the bill introduces a new section in Title 38, Chapter 3, Part 1, which defines key terms such as "healthcare facility," "physician," and "shelter." A healthcare facility is described as any institution or agency that provides care for individuals suffering from various medical conditions, while a physician is defined as a licensed medical practitioner. The term "shelter" encompasses facilities that offer temporary housing and services for individuals experiencing homelessness or domestic violence.

The bill explicitly prohibits the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from entering or conducting law enforcement activities in healthcare facilities, physician's offices, or shelters within Tennessee. This measure aims to create a safe environment for vulnerable populations seeking medical care or shelter without the fear of immigration enforcement actions. The act is set to take effect immediately upon becoming law, emphasizing the urgency of protecting these essential services.