Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signs sweeping immigration laws, investing $298 million and introducing controversial measures to combat illegal immigration.
At a Glance
- DeSantis signs comprehensive package of immigration laws aligned with Trump’s agenda
- $298 million allocated for hiring immigration-focused law enforcement officers and related expenses
- Controversial measures include mandatory death penalty for illegal immigrants committing capital offenses
- In-state tuition for undocumented students repealed, drawing bipartisan criticism
- Florida positions itself as a leader among conservative states in immigration enforcement
DeSantis Signs Sweeping Immigration Laws
In a move that solidifies Florida’s position as a frontrunner in state-level immigration enforcement, Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a comprehensive package of immigration laws. The legislation, which aligns closely with President Donald Trump’s mass deportation agenda, represents a significant investment of $298 million in enhancing the state’s capabilities to address illegal immigration.
The new laws position Florida at the forefront of conservative states utilizing state and local resources for federal immigration enforcement. This aggressive stance includes hiring over 50 new law enforcement officers dedicated to immigration enforcement, providing training programs and equipment for local agencies, and offering bonuses for officers collaborating on federal immigration initiatives.
Last year, I signed the toughest anti-illegal immigration legislation in the country. Today, I signed three more bills to build on the work we have done to protect Floridians from the impacts of the border crisis. pic.twitter.com/oZHpYvyzFR
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) March 15, 2024
Controversial Measures and Criticisms
The legislation introduces several contentious provisions that have sparked debate and criticism. One of the most controversial aspects is the mandate for the death penalty for illegal immigrants who commit capital offenses, a measure that legal experts argue may be unconstitutional based on Supreme Court precedent.
Another point of dispute is the repeal of a law that allowed undocumented students residing in Florida to pay lower in-state tuition. This decision has drawn criticism from both sides of the political aisle, with concerns about its impact on families and students who have long resided in the state.
Excellent. Thank you Governor DeSantis for fighting for Floridians to ensure that the toughest anti-illegal Immigration bill is passed in Florida.
— Dr. Maria Peiro đşđ¸ đ (@MariaPeiro305) February 11, 2025
Broader Implications and Regional Trends
The passage of these laws in Florida is part of a broader trend among southern states to support and implement Trump’s immigration policies. Alabama and Georgia are also advancing bills that aim to tighten immigration enforcement at the state level. These efforts include proposals to hold individuals to verify immigration status, collect DNA from unauthorized immigrants, and allow local governments to be sued for non-cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
“If you come to the country legally, if you come into Alabama legally, then these bills don’t affect you,” Republican Sen. Wes Kitchens said.
While supporters of the legislation argue that it’s necessary to address the illegal immigration crisis, critics contend that these measures will harm communities and families. The Florida Democratic Party Chair, Nikki Fried, expressed strong opposition, stating that the law “completely betrayed our communities” and created new ways to target immigrants.
