On February 13, 2025, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis approved Senate Bill (SB) 2-C and Senate Bill (SB) 4-C, significant immigration legislation aimed at curbing undocumented immigration. The bills introduce measures on in-state tuition, increase criminal penalties, and enhance law enforcement efforts.
Key Provisions
Undocumented immigrants will lose eligibility for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities starting July 1, 2025.
Those convicted of capital felonies, including first-degree murder, will face the death penalty.
A new State Board of Immigration Enforcement will be created to assist federal and state agencies, with over $298 million allocated to enhance immigration-related law enforcement.
In-State Tuition Changes
SB 2-C removes in-state tuition benefits for undocumented immigrants at Florida’s public colleges and universities. This change takes effect on July 1, 2025, and students will be reassessed for eligibility.
Criminal Penalties Raised
Both SB 2-C and SB 4-C introduce stricter criminal penalties. A provision in SB 4-C mandates the death penalty for undocumented immigrants convicted of capital felonies. Additionally, undocumented immigrants attempting to enter Florida face a first-degree misdemeanor charge, and any voting-related offenses will be classified as third-degree felonies.
Creation of State Immigration Enforcement Board
SB 2-C establishes the State Board of Immigration Enforcement, responsible for coordinating federal and state immigration law enforcement efforts. The board will be led by the governor and appointed cabinet members.
Significant Funding for Immigration Law Enforcement
A total of $298 million will be directed toward law enforcement initiatives, including the hiring of 50 new officers and a $1,000 bonus program for officers involved in immigration enforcement.
Governor DeSantis’s signing of these bills builds on his ongoing efforts to tighten immigration laws, following the enactment of Senate Bill 1718 in May 2023.
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