In a significant move towards addressing illegal immigration, Florida's Republican Governor Ron DeSantis and other state GOP leaders have reached a consensus on a series of proposals.
This agreement comes ahead of a special session slated to commence on Wednesday.
As reported by Breitbart, Governor DeSantis, Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez, and Florida Senate President Ben Albritton announced the agreement on Monday. They expressed their commitment to convene a special session aimed at passing new measures to combat illegal immigration in Florida and support the Trump administration's efforts.
"I'm happy to see the Florida legislature returning to special session to consider a series of proposals that, if enacted, will make Florida the strongest state in the country for combating illegal immigration," DeSantis stated in a video message. He further emphasized that the proposed measures would aid Florida in assisting "the Trump administration in fulfilling the mandate that it has to end the illegal immigration crisis once and for all."
The Governor outlined several robust measures under consideration, including criminalizing illegal entry into Florida. "There are a number of very strong measures that are going to be considered, including making it a crime to enter the state of Florida illegally. Some other states have done it, it's our turn to follow suit," DeSantis declared.
The proposed measures also aim to terminate the "catch and release" policy for criminal illegal aliens and mandate all state and local law enforcement to assist federal authorities with immigration enforcement. DeSantis highlighted that penalties would be imposed on mayors, police, and sheriffs who fail to enforce the law, with potential suspension and removal from office.
The Governor also addressed the issue of in-state tuition for illegal aliens, stating, "The proposals also take away in-state tuition for illegal aliens something that should have never been enacted to begin with." He further noted that registering to vote as an illegal alien would be considered a heightened crime.
DeSantis clarified that all constitutional power resides with the governor, as intended under the constitution. He dismissed concerns about subcontracting immigration enforcement to the Commissioner of Agriculture, stating, "that is not in these series of proposals."
The Governor commended the legislature for their proactive stance, stating, "I think this is really, really strong. I commend the legislature for stepping up to the plate. If theyre able to pass the proposals as presented now, they can expect my strong support."
DeSantis asserted that the time for action is now, stating, "Now is the time for us to get this done. Weve been talking about this issue for years. Now we have a mandate, we have to deliver on that mandate, and the state of Florida is doing all it can to be great partners with the federal government in this very important national initiative."
House Speaker Perez echoed DeSantis's sentiments in a post, writing, "Our commitment to leading the nation in immigration enforcement is strengthened by the cooperation and input of [DeSantis] and [Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson]."
Perez further stated, "We will send a clear and united message that illegal immigration and gang violence in Florida will be met with severe penalties and swift deportations."
This agreement among Florida Republicans comes after the states GOP leaders had earlier deemed DeSantiss special session talks as premature. The move has been lauded by various conservative figures, including author and Center for Immigration Studies executive director Mark Krikorian, and Jessica Vaughan, Director of Policy Studies at Center for Immigration Studies.
Florida first lady Casey DeSantis praised the state's leadership, stating, "The Free State of Florida leads the nation once again by enacting the strongest illegal immigration enforcement legislation in the country." She also expressed her appreciation for the governors steadfast leadership and work with the legislature to enact the will of the people and to help deliver on President Trumps mandate to effectuate the largest mass deportation of illegal immigrants in U.S. history.
Florida House Representative Mike Caruso (R-District 87) also voiced his support, stating, "Together, were making our voices heard! This is happening because of the grassroots cry for Justice from all you. Your voices were loud. Your voices were heard. Thank you for standing with me and Governor @GovRonDeSantis."
The proposed measures, if passed, will mark a significant step in Florida's efforts to combat illegal immigration, reflecting the state's commitment to uphold law and order, and its alignment with the conservative values of limited government and individual freedom.
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