Letter from parents of Tyre Nichols to TN Gov. Bill Lee urging veto of SB2572

Rodney and RowVaughn Wells

C/O Ben Crump Law

122 S. Calhoun St

Tallahassee, Florida 32301

March 15, 2024

The Honorable Bill Lee

Tennessee State Capitol, First Floor

600 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd.
Nashville, Tennessee 37243

Dear Governor Lee,

As the parents of Tyre Nichols, we are writing to you regarding SB2572, currently awaiting your signature or veto. Governor, we urge you to use your veto pen to prevent this dangerous legislation from becoming law. This bill threatens to undermine critical municipal police reforms enacted in response to the tragic death of our son, Tyre Nichols.

SB2572 seeks to nullify ordinances passed in Memphis aimed at improving policing and ensuring community safety. These ordinances, including the Data Transparency Act, the Tyre Nichols Driving Equality Act, and regulations concerning the usage of unmarked cars, were implemented in response to the unjust death of Tyre and aimed to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

We attempted to meet with State Sen. Brent Taylor to request a delay in the vote to allow for meaningful dialogue and compromise. However, our pleas for collaboration and discussion went unanswered, leaving us and the entire Memphis community feeling marginalized and discouraged. We need your help.

Gov. Lee, we implore you to consider the implications of SB2572 on the safety and well-being of the citizens of Tennessee, particularly those in Memphis who have been directly affected by police misconduct and violence –– people like us.

By signing this bill into law, you will be negating the hard-fought progress made in improving policing and building community trust, thereby jeopardizing the lives and rights of countless individuals.

We urge you to veto SB2572 and to engage with community leaders, law enforcement officials, and affected families like ours. Together, we can work towards comprehensive and equitable solutions that prioritize the safety of all Tennesseans, while addressing the concerns of those who authored this bill.

While we, as Tyre’s parents, carry the mantle of ensuring Tyre’s legacy, this moment is about so much more. You, alone, have the power to protect the progress we’ve made toward community safety by vetoing this misguided and harmful legislation.

Thank you for your attention to this crucial matter. After the death of our son, you generously offered your support in our pursuit of justice. This is that moment, Governor. We need your support now, more than ever.

Sincerely,

Rodney and RowVaughn Wells

Parents of Tyre Nichols