The state of Florida is on the cusp of implementing one of the strictest immigration laws in the United States. Recently, Governor Ron DeSantis and the state legislature reached an agreement after intense negotiations, where the governor had expressed his desire to create a tougher legal framework compared to the initial proposals of the legislators.
The law, which is expected to be signed soon, aims to reinforce former President Donald Trump's immigration policy, seeking closer collaboration with federal authorities and establishing significant penalties for those who are in the state illegally.
Key Measures of the New Law
Among the main measures agreed upon is the creation of an immigration council composed of four senior state officials: the governor, the attorney general, the chief financial officer and the commissioner of agriculture. This council will be responsible for implementing state immigration policies.
- Four sheriffs will be appointed, two by the House of Representatives and two by the Senate, to balance power in implementing policies.
- Tough penalties will be imposed on illegal immigrants convicted of crimes, including jail terms of up to nine months.
- Bail will be eliminated for those who are detained for being in the country illegally.
- The law would include mandatory death sentences for undocumented immigrants who commit serious crimes, such as murder or child sexual abuse.
- A $250 million law enforcement fund will be created for local police units.
Community Impact
Florida's immigrant community is on edge over the possibility that these measures could become law. The new legislation will also force prisons to report the immigration status of detainees to immigration authorities, which could further complicate the situation for many.
Additionally, the law is expected to end state funding for the education of undocumented students, which could impact thousands of young people in the state who already face significant challenges in their pursuit of higher education.
Reactions and Legal Future
Even though the law has not yet been signed into law, the possibility of it facing lawsuits from pro-immigrant groups is high. Similar to other legislation in the past, which has been challenged in court, it is anticipated that this new law will also face legal challenges.
Governor DeSantis appears to have the backing of the federal government, which could make it easier to implement these measures. However, the effectiveness and enforcement of the law are issues that will need to be closely watched, as reality may differ from legislative intentions.
Florida is preparing for a significant shift in its approach to immigration, and the community continues to closely watch how these developments will unfold.
