In this article, we will discuss the implications of the new Florida Immigration Law SB 1718 and the introduction of the Venezuelan Adjustment Law. These topics are part of the MAU Talks, weekly conferences held at Millennia Atlantic University, and are of great relevance to our immigrant community.
To provide us with an expert perspective, we have the participation of Maureen Porras, an Immigration lawyer, and legal director of a global nonprofit organization.
Speaker’s profile:
Maureen Porras is an Immigration lawyer with extensive experience in the field, also she is an elected official as councilwoman for the city of Doral. Since 2016, she has been working as a public interest lawyer in a nonprofit organization, providing access to legal services to families.
Her focus has been on defending and promoting human rights, as well as engaging in humanitarian work worldwide, including collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
In December 2022, Maureen was elected as a member of the Doral City Council, proudly representing one of the fastest-growing cities in Miami-Dade County.
Her background and expertise in immigration make her a qualified expert to analyze the implications of the mentioned laws.
Key Aspects of the New Florida Immigration Law SB 1718
Driver’s Licenses for Immigrants in Florida
One aspect that has raised many questions is whether the new law invalidates driver’s licenses issued by other states for certain immigrants who cannot prove their legal status in the United States.
The answer is yes, the law establishes that a driver’s license issued by another state will not be accepted as valid in Florida for those who cannot demonstrate their legal status. However, it is important to note that each case must be evaluated individually, as there are exceptions and specific situations that may apply.
Immigration Status Requirements in Hospitals
Another relevant aspect of the law is that hospitals receiving public funds are now required to request information about the immigration status of patients.
It is important to highlight that this provision applies only to hospitals receiving public funds and does not affect private hospitals. Furthermore, it is stated that not answering this question will not affect the quality of service or deny medical care to anyone.
The purpose of this measure is to assess the impact of immigrants on hospitals and how much is spent on medical services for individuals without legal status.
Hiring Authorized Employees and Immigration Status Verification
The new law also prohibits the hiring of unauthorized employees, which is already a federal law. However, this restriction now applies at the state level in Florida.
Additionally, companies with 25 or more employees are required to use the E-Verify system to verify the immigration status of their employees.
Previously, private companies were not obligated to use this system. It is important to note that fines and penalties are imposed on employers who violate these laws.
Illicit Trafficking of Persons Offense
The new law makes it a crime to transport certain immigrants into the state of Florida.
It is important to note that there have been significant changes regarding the initial proposal.
Previously, the proposal considered it a crime to transport immigrants within Florida, whether it was for living, protecting, or hiding, among other purposes. However, this provision generated concern and opposition, leading to modifications in the final law.
Now, for it to be considered a crime, the transportation must be from outside of Florida into the state. Additionally, the transported person must have entered without authorization and not been inspected by immigration authorities.
Venezuelan Adjustment Law
Apart from the Florida Immigration Law SB 1718, it is important to mention the introduction of the Venezuelan Adjustment Law.
This law provides an opportunity for certain Venezuelans to apply for permanent residence after having been in the United States for one year and one day. It is similar to the Cuban Adjustment Law but with some important differences.
It is not necessary to have entered fraudulently or to have been inspected and admitted, as in the case of the Cuban Adjustment Law.
However, applicants must meet certain requirements and not have committed serious crimes or engaged in acts of persecution.
The law also applies to spouses and children of Venezuelans.
Conclusions and Actions to Take
It is essential to consider that these laws are subject to changes and their implementation is still ongoing. It is crucial to stay informed and closely follow the developments related to these laws.
If we wish to influence their implementation or express our opinions, we can contact our representatives, such as Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart, who has jurisdiction in this area.
Furthermore, we should evaluate policies and initiatives independently of political parties.
We should not automatically assume that a congressperson from a particular party will not support an initiative simply based on their party affiliation.
It is important to communicate with our representatives regardless of their political affiliation since they must represent all citizens.
Our voices and opinions are valuable, and every letter that reaches a congressperson’s office is public and can have an impact on their decisions.
In conclusion, the implications of the new Florida Immigration Law SB 1718 and the Venezuelan Adjustment Law are of great importance to the immigrant community. As members of this community, we must inform ourselves, actively participate, and make our voices heard in this process.
Check out the event page: MAU Talks: Impacts of Florida’s SB 1718 and the Venezuelan Adjustment Act