On July 1, a new immigration law (SB 1718) signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will come into effect, which will greatly impact undocumented immigrants in the state. Here’s what you need to know about the new measures included in the bill and how they will affect immigrants.
Work
The new law tightens the requirements for companies to verify the immigration status of workers. Companies with more than 25 employees are now required to use E-Verify, a federal system that determines an employee’s legal status to work in the US. Plus, the maximum fine for violating provisions related to employment, hiring, recruiting, or referring undocumented immigrants for private or public employment has increased to $1,000.
Additionally, individuals using false identification documents or fraudulently using someone else’s identification documents to obtain employment could face criminal penalties. Furthermore, the Department of Economic Opportunity is now authorized to request and require a private employer to provide copies of certain documentation.
Human trafficking
The law enables the authorities to charge someone with human trafficking if they knowingly transport an undocumented immigrant through state lines. It also provides criminal penalties for individuals who violate specific provisions related to the concealment or attempted concealment of undocumented immigrants.
ID and driver’s licenses
Counties and municipalities are prohibited from providing funds to any person, entity, or organization to issue identification documents to anyone who cannot provide proof of legal presence in the US. In addition, Florida does not recognize certain driver’s licenses and permits issued by other states exclusively for undocumented immigrants.
Health
Hospitals that accept Medicaid must now collect information on patients’ immigration status on admission or registration forms. However, patients can decline to answer, and it will not be mandatory to share the information. Hospitals must submit quarterly reports to the Agency for Health Care Administration containing information on the number of hospital admissions or visits made by a patient who indicated their citizenship status.
Relocation
The new bill provides $12 million for the relocation initiative, DeSantis immigrant resettlement, which garnered national attention last year.
It’s important to note that living or renting a space to relatives, friends, or neighbors with an unregulated immigration status will not be a crime in Florida. Neither will transporting someone with an unregulated status within the state of Florida.
In conclusion, the new immigration law in Florida has various provisions that will harm undocumented immigrants in the state. It’s crucial to know your rights and seek legal assistance, especially if you think you might be affected. For more information on the new bill, please visit the Florida Senate website or seek professional advice.
