TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Legislature is currently in the midst of a special session focused on immigration, with Gov. Ron DeSantis expressing dissatisfaction over the dismissal of his proposal. It’s day two of the special session called by lawmakers in the Florida legislature. They had previously rejected DeSantis’s proposal.
As of the latest update around 6:30 p.m., discussions on the immigration bill are ongoing, with lawmakers striving to reach a consensus on various aspects.
Significant negotiations have taken place today, with legislators seeking and receiving technical assistance from the Trump administration to enhance the bill.
The proposed enhancements include implementing a mandatory death penalty for illegal immigrants convicted of capital offenses, such as murder or child rape, developing a bonus program for trained law enforcement officers who assist with ICE task forces, funded by $25 million already appropriated in the bill. Also, updating terminology to align with federal law, such as using “unauthorized alien” as per Title 8 of the U.S. Code.
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The legislation would also make agriculture commissioner Wilton Simpson the leader in the state’s immigration policy. Gov.DeSantis wanted that authority. The Senate President, Ben Albritton, has expressed strong support for the bill, stating, “Our goal, in concert with the President, is to provide our communities with more badges, more beds to hold criminal aliens, and a laser focus on catching criminals who violate our laws.”
Some Florida Democrats argue the legislature isn’t providing a fair opportunity for public input with such short notice. The bill has a just over $500 million appropriation from the state’s general revenue fund.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
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