Question 1

When did Florida's new immigration law take effect?

Accepted Answer

Florida’s Senate Bill 168 took effect on July 1, 2023. Some provisions were temporarily blocked by an injunction between September and December 2022 before being allowed to proceed.

Question 2

What jobs and industries are most impacted by Florida's immigration law?

Accepted Answer

Industries like agriculture, construction, hospitality, and food service that rely heavily on immigrant labor, including unauthorized workers, are most affected. Migrant farmworkers and low-wage service sector employees face the greatest scrutiny and barriers to employment.

Question 3

Does Florida's law affect legal immigrants too?

Accepted Answer

Yes, even immigrants in the U.S. legally under visas or green cards face increased documentation requirements and scrutiny when seeking to work under SB 168. Critics argue this promotes discrimination against all immigrant applicants.

Question 4

Can employers get exemptions from using E-Verify in Florida?

Accepted Answer

No, the use of E-Verify is mandated for all public and private employers in Florida under SB 168. Failure to use the electronic verification system leads to fines.

Question 5

Can Florida cities and towns create "sanctuary" policies limiting immigration enforcement?

Accepted Answer

No, SB 168 bans any restrictions on immigration enforcement cooperation at the local level, and a new 2023 Florida bill further strengthens this preemption of sanctuary cities.

Question 6

Have federal courts struck down any parts of Florida's immigration law?

Accepted Answer

An initial injunction in September 2022 halted some provisions, but an appeals court stayed the injunction in December 2022, allowing the law to proceed. Other federal lawsuits challenging SB 168 remain ongoing.

Question 7

Does Florida's law affect immigrants brought to the U.S. as children?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Florida Gov. DeSantis requested state agencies stop issuing professional licenses to DACA recipients, impacting their employment options despite federal protections.

Question 8

What penalties do employers face for hiring unauthorized immigrants in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Penalties include fines from $500-$5000 per worker, license suspensions, loss of government contracts and tax benefits. Private residents can also sue violating businesses.

Question 9

Does the Florida law require checking the immigration status of customers or tenants?

Accepted Answer

No, SB 168 focuses exclusively on employment and hiring practices. It does not mandate checking immigration status to provide goods, services, or housing.

Question 10

Can employers avoid penalties by voluntarily auditing immigration compliance?

Accepted Answer

No, SB 168 does not contain any provisions allowing employers to avoid sanctions through voluntary audits or corrective measures. Violations strictly incur defined penalties.

Florida State Laws

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