This bill aims to enhance immigration enforcement in Florida by mandating that all state and county law enforcement agencies, as well as any agency with more than 25 sworn or certified officers, enter into written agreements with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to participate in federal immigration programs. Agencies are required to engage in every program model for which they qualify and must report their compliance status quarterly to the State Immigration Enforcement Officer. The bill also stipulates that at least 10% of sworn officers in these agencies must be available to perform immigration officer duties. If federal funding for necessary training is unavailable, agencies may seek reimbursement from the newly created Unauthorized Alien Transport Program or the Emergency Preparedness and Response Fund.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Unauthorized Alien Transport Program under the Division of Emergency Management, which will be overseen by the State Immigration Enforcement Officer. This program is designed to facilitate immigration enforcement activities, including detention and deportation, and will receive a significant appropriation of $350 million for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The bill also includes provisions for the suspension of agency heads who fail to comply with its requirements and allows for the adoption of rules to implement the program. Furthermore, it repeals a previous law related to the Unauthorized Alien Transport Program, ensuring a streamlined approach to immigration enforcement in the state.

Statutes affected:
S 14A Filed: 908.11