ORLANDO, Fla. – Lawmakers in Florida are on the brink of enacting a new law addressing illegal immigration.
A special session that started today is set for lawmakers to reach an agreement after previous conflicts over the bill’s content.
This afternoon’s session presents a different tone compared to last month’s. Initially, there were several disagreements between Governor Ron DeSantis and many representatives.
Governor DeSantis emphasized that this session’s “sole and exclusive” purpose is to consider legislation related to President Trump’s executive orders on illegal immigration. Today, Florida lawmakers appear more aligned.
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Senator Randy Fine, endorsed by President Trump for a US Congress run, is in Tallahassee for the session.
“We’re going to get rid of in-state tuition for illegal immigrants,” Fine said in a Zoom interview with News 6. “We’re going to make whether you’re an illegal, a bigger deal when it comes to bail. We’re going to require all jails and prisons to be working with the federal government. We are going to, maybe have automatic death penalty for illegal immigrants who rape children.”
While the special session was underway in Tallahassee, downtown Orlando hosted the Latin American trade show, fostering goodwill among Colombia, the United States, Dominican Republic, and Mexico.
Consul General Cesar Gonzalez, representing Colombia in Central and North Florida, noted the presence of about 350,000 Colombians living in these areas. He emphasized the importance of community preparedness and adherence to local laws.
Consul General of Mexico, Juan Sabines, highlighted the presence of approximately 25,000 Mexican Americans and 9,000 Mexicans in Central Florida.
“We are an ally because we share the same ideas to combat crime,” Sabines said. “We are against fentanyl, against trafficking of arms, and all kinds of criminals. Only by working together can we bring solutions to our people on both sides of the border.”
The special session continues tomorrow, and we will monitor the latest developments.
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