Employees in the state of Florida should be aware of a recently enacted law that aims to address the issue of undocumented immigrants within the state. This law introduces several provisions that carry significant implications.

First, employers who hire undocumented immigrants now face fines and penalties. To ensure the eligibility of employees, businesses with 25 or more employees must use the E-Verify system. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in fines of up to $1,000 per day. Additionally, businesses found to be knowingly employing undocumented individuals may have their licenses suspended. Furthermore, the use of counterfeit documents in employment is now considered a felony offense.

The new law also establishes a dedicated $12 million fund that aims to help with the relocation of migrants currently residing in Florida. Furthermore, issuing identification documents to migrants without legal status to remain in the United States is now prohibited.

To combat human smuggling, stricter penalties have been implemented. Individuals involved in transporting undocumented immigrants may now face jail time. Additionally, local governments and non-governmental organizations are prohibited from issuing identification cards to undocumented individuals. Moreover, out-of-state driver’s licenses issued to undocumented immigrants are no longer considered valid within the state of Florida.

Another significant change brought about by the law pertains to hospitals in Florida. Hospitals must now inquire about a patient’s legal status in the U.S. during the completion of admission forms. Quarterly reports must then be submitted to the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration so the medical treatment of undocumented individuals can be tracked.

If you are an employee in Florida seeking information about this recent state law or any other immigration-related matters, please contact us at ILBSG. We are here to help.