For years, the Republicans have persistently criticized the immigration policies in the United States and newly arrived asylum-seekers. As Republicans push for new legislation, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has made strides to impact the lives of immigrants by signing Senate Bill 1718, which takes effect on July 1.
SB 1718 provides a glimpse into the contentious modifications that Gov. DeSantis has continuously expressed for Congress to enact. In simple terms, the strict new bill imposes restrictions on social services for undocumented immigrants, directs additional tax funds towards expanding Gov. DeSantis' migrant relocation program, renders driver's licenses issued by other states to undocumented individuals invalid, and mandates hospitals receiving Medicaid funding to inquire about a patient's immigration status.
However, the penalties for non-compliance with the newly introduced employment mandates are causing significant concern among businesses and undocumented immigrants alike.
Supporters argue that the new bill will aid in the removal of the recent surge of immigrants, deter future arrivals, and create additional employment prospects for lawful residents and others in the country. Critics contend that the state will lose billions of dollars in revenue, and many of the most severe penalties are unlikely to be enforced.
Why Does This Matter?
The potential ramifications of SB 1718 extend beyond its specific focus on undocumented immigrants. The effects of SB 1718 are expected to heighten concerns among immigrant families, potentially leading to adverse effects on their daily lives, physical health, and mental well-being. In Florida, the immigrant population consists of approximately 1.8 million individuals, including both lawfully present and undocumented immigrants, amounting to over 8% of the state's total population.
As fears intensify and hospitals are mandated to gather immigration status data, families may be deterred from seeking healthcare, including for their U.S.-born citizen children, ultimately resulting in detrimental health consequences.
The bill is also expected to have repercussions on Florida's economy and labor force, with preliminary reports already indicating some impacts prior to its implementation. Local food service establishments in the state have reported losses in terms of long-standing employees and customers who are now apprehensive about visiting public places.
The agriculture and construction sectors have also experienced adverse effects, including reports of abandoned construction sites in Florida subsequent to the approval of SB 1718. Considering immigrants' substantial contribution to the state's workforce, particularly in these specific industries, repercussions will likely persist and potentially escalate.
Strikes
Florida's SB 1718 bill is garnering attention across the U.S. as individuals respond with a national strike, demonstrating what the country would be without immigrants. The strike also urges people to boycott Florida products on June 1 and refrain from spending money in the state as a means of protest.
The strike demonstrates solidarity with immigrants, highlighting their tireless efforts and commitment to the United States and its economy. Immigrants in the U.S. comprise of approximately 1-in-7 residents, 1-in-6 workers, and create about 1-in-4 in new businesses. Their annual tax contributions exceed $90 billion, while welfare benefits received amount to only $5 billion. The significant contributions immigrants make to the public treasury underscore the crucial role they play in preventing substantial economic losses.
Final Thoughts
As a Mexican American employed at an immigration law firm, it is deeply disheartening to witness immigrants consistently subjected to severe limitations that have a profoundly negative impact on their lives.
These ongoing challenges faced by immigrants reinforce the urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform. It is disheartening to witness the toll these restrictions take on families, communities, and individuals striving to build a better future in a country they call home. The work at the immigration law firm serves as a reminder of the resilience and courage demonstrated by immigrants in navigating an often unforgiving system. I hope that through collective efforts, we can advocate for a more compassionate and fair immigration system that recognizes and embraces the contributions of immigrants to our society.
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