A judge condemns the Tennessee Voters Registration Act and warns that it could create a "cooling effect"

NASHVILLE, Tennessee – A federal judge has sharply criticized the new restrictions imposed by Tennessee on voters while refusing to reject a legal challenge to the new law to come into effect in October.

US District Judge Aleta Trauger said on Monday that the law would likely create a "chilling effect" on organizations and individuals seeking to register new voters in Tennessee.

The new law is probably the first in the country to impose fines on too many incomplete registration forms. It includes criminal charges for other intentional offenses under the new rules. He says that only paid groups could be penalized, although legal deposit claims that the distinction is not clear.

Republican Secretary of State Tre Hargett said the addition of sanctions added to the security of the elections. His office did not immediately return a request for comment.