Understanding Florida New Immigration Bill: A Comprehensive Overview

On May 10th, 2023, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill (SB) 1718 into law, marking a significant milestone in the state's approach to immigration policies. Aimed at addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration, this bill introduces several key provisions that will impact both employers and the immigrant population in Florida. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of SB 1718 and explore its implications.

Mandatory E-Verify Implementation:

Starting from July 1st, 2023, private employers with 25 or more employees, as well as public employers in Florida, will be required to utilize the E-Verify system. This online tool enables employers to verify the employment eligibility of new hires. Non-compliance with this requirement could lead to fines of $1,000 per day for employers. The objective is to ensure that all individuals employed in Florida have legal authorization to work.

Combating Illegal Employment Practices:

SB 1718 takes a strong stance against employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants. The bill imposes severe penalties, including the suspension of licenses for employers engaged in such practices. Additionally, using a fake ID to gain employment is now considered a felony. These measures aim to discourage the hiring of unauthorized workers and promote compliance with immigration laws that you can easily tackle with the help of Business Immigration Attorney.

Stricter Penalties for Human Smuggling:

Recognizing the seriousness of human smuggling, the bill enhances penalties for those involved in this illegal activity. Transporting five or more illegal aliens or a single illegal alien minor is now classified as a second-degree felony, carrying a fine of $10,000 and a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years. By imposing these tougher penalties, Florida hopes to deter human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals.

Relocation of Illegal Immigrants:

To alleviate the strain on local communities, SB 1718 allocates $12 million to sustain the Unauthorized Alien Transport Program. This initiative facilitates the relocation of illegal immigrants to sanctuary jurisdictions, aiming to distribute the responsibility more evenly among different regions. The objective is to address the impact of illegal immigration Immigration in Atlanta while advocating for a comprehensive federal approach.

Restricting ID Issuance for Illegal Aliens:

In an effort to reinforce immigration law enforcement, the bill prohibits local governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from issuing identification documents to illegal aliens. Moreover, out-of-state driver's licenses issued exclusively to illegal aliens will be rendered invalid. These measures seek to strengthen the integrity of identification processes and ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

Transparency in Healthcare Costs:

Acknowledging the financial burden on the healthcare system caused by illegal immigration, SB 1718 requires hospitals to collect and report healthcare costs associated with treating illegal aliens. By bringing transparency to these expenses, Florida aims to address the fiscal implications and foster accountability in managing healthcare resources.

Conclusion:

Florida's new immigration bill, SB 1718, introduces a range of measures designed to combat illegal immigration and promote compliance with immigration laws. While the bill has generated both support and criticism, its impact on employers and the immigrant population in Florida is undeniable. As a responsible business owner, it is crucial to stay informed about the provisions outlined in the bill and ensure compliance with the new regulations.