State lawmakers in Florida are gearing up for a new immigration bill that would allow individuals to sue employers who knowingly hire undocumented immigrants. The proposed legislation, SB 1498, filed by State Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, seeks to tighten restrictions on illegal immigration in the state. Key provisions of the bill include mandatory use of E-Verify for all employers, stricter penalties for employers hiring undocumented workers, proof of citizenship requirements for housing assistance, and a prohibition on wire transfers from illegal immigrants. One of the most controversial aspects of the bill is the provision allowing people to sue employers if harm, injury, or death is caused by an undocumented worker they hired.
Governor Ron DeSantis has expressed support for expanding the E-Verify program and removing incentives for illegal immigration. However, the bill’s fate in the legislature remains uncertain, as some lawmakers may be ready to move on to other pressing issues after a contentious special session on immigration reform. Florida Democrats have criticized the state’s approach to immigration, calling for comprehensive reform at the federal level. Chair of the Florida Democratic Party, Nikki Fried, emphasized the need for a compassionate approach to immigration reform, citing the importance of fixing the issue at the national level. Overall, the new bill represents a continuation of Florida’s efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, but its passage is still up in the air as lawmakers reconvene next month.
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