As Florida’s vibrant sun sets over the horizon, Republican State Senator Blaise Ingoglia and Governor Ron DeSantis are casting a shadow on illegal immigration with their latest legislative push. SB 1718, a bill that reflects DeSantis’ recommendations from February, targets undocumented immigrants who have crossed the southern border, evaded federal border authorities, and settled in the Sunshine State, seeking to make Florida a less appealing destination for those attempting to skirt the law.
Ingoglia’s proposal aims to eliminate benefits that he and other proponents argue serve as incentives for illegal immigrants to come to Florida. “Why does anybody want to actually go through the process of actually becoming legal when all of these benefits are out there which are, I would argue, incentives for people to come over illegally,” Ingoglia said as the Senate Committee on Fiscal Policy reviewed the bill. He added that the United States’ compassion has inadvertently fostered more illegal immigration, urging other states to follow Florida’s lead and put pressure on the federal government to address the issue.
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“Anti-Illegal Immigrant” bill.
Fixed it for you @ACLUFL.
Don’t conflate the issue. That’s beneath you…I think. https://t.co/13Fy0zltJY
— Blaise Ingoglia (@GovGoneWild) April 25, 2023
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The bill, if passed, would not affect all illegal immigrants. Those who crossed the border illegally but were taken into custody by the Border Patrol and are awaiting court proceedings will not face restrictions under the legislation. However, those who evaded law enforcement and have no record of arrest or parole would be impacted. The legislation’s effects on immigrants who overstay their visas or “Dreamers” under the Obama administration’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program remain uncertain.
Big moment as Florida gets closer to passing historic anti-illegal immigration legislation
Florida state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia advocating before Senate Fiscal Policy Committee right now on behalf of his SB 1718, which DeSantis supports@GovGoneWild pic.twitter.com/JuELu1IAk3
— Anna Giaritelli (@Anna_Giaritelli) April 25, 2023
SB 1718 is now heading to the Senate floor for a vote before returning to the House for final approval. If passed, it would become law ahead of DeSantis’ expected 2024 presidential campaign announcement, cementing his position as a staunch opponent of illegal immigration. The bill would also address concerns raised by faith leaders by excluding church employees or members who transport children in the country illegally to church functions from felony charges.
While the Sunshine State continues to be a beacon of warmth and hospitality for millions, the passage of SB 1718 would send a clear signal that Florida’s welcome mat does not extend to those who disregard the nation’s immigration laws.
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