Florida’s most recent legislative session ended with the derailing of several bills that were viewed as anti-immigrant, including legislation that would punish sanctuary cities. Perhaps the most contentious bill of the nine that were not passed was the sanctuary city bill. The legislation would suspend state grant funding and impose monetary penalties on cities that refuse to comply with federal immigration authorities, according to the Florida Immigrant Coalition (FLIC). The bill would also divert local resources by asking local law enforcement officers to enforce federal immigration laws. According to the FLIC, the law would also permit elected officials to be removed from office if they failed to obey the statute.
Proposed Laws
Florida lawmakers put forth identical bills in the House and Senate that would give harsher sentences to illegal immigrants who are charged and convicted of violent crimes. The legislation proposes punishment automatically increase in harshness for illegal immigrants suspected of committing crimes, such as increasing a first-degree misdemeanor to a third-degree felony if the person charged is in the country illegally.
Not surprisingly, opponents of the measures argue they are unconstitutional because they unfairly discriminate by treating offenders differently depending on their legal status in the country.
The bills would additionally punish local governments in Florida who adopt “sanctuary” policies. A sanctuary city, though defined legally, is a city that limits its cooperating with the federal government’s efforts to enforce immigration law. Opinions differ in the legal community as to whether or not enforcement of immigration laws is constitutional when being carried out by local law enforcement. Those cities that refuse to comply with federal immigration efforts would also lose federal funding. Finally, the bills proposed putting an end to Florida’s participation in the federal refugee resettlement program. According to the Tallahassee Democrat, the bills were a secondary measure aimed to work in tandem with President Donald Trump’s proposed immigration policies and to add additional measures for the state.
A sanctuary city, though defined legally, is a city that limits its cooperating with the federal government’s efforts to enforce immigration law.
To consult with an experienced immigration lawyer today, call 855-780-9986
Central Florida Immigration Attorneys
The immigration attorneys at Bogin, Munns & Munns strive to remain up-to-date on any changes in local and federal immigration laws to ensure zealous representation of clients. If you or someone you know has received a deportation notice, is facing removal proceedings, is seeking to obtain a visa, or needs any other type of immigration assistance, contact our offices today. With over a dozen convenient office locations across Central Florida, our immigration lawyers can help guide you every step of the way. Schedule your immigration consultation today.
NOTICE: The article above is not intended to serve as legal advice, and you should not rely on it as such. It is offered only as general information. You should consult with a duly licensed attorney regarding your Florida legal matter, as every situation is unique. Please know that merely reading this article, subscribing to this blog, or otherwise contacting Bogin, Munns & Munns does not establish an attorney-client relationship with our firm. Should you seek legal representation from Bogin, Munns & Munns, any such representation must first be agreed to by the firm and confirmed in a written agreement.
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