This bill amends various sections of Florida law to enhance the enforcement of immigration-related employment regulations. It revises the duties of the Office of Economic Accountability and Transparency within the Department of Commerce to include the administration and enforcement of the E-Verify system and employment authorization compliance. The bill increases penalties for employers who violate provisions related to employing unauthorized aliens, including the suspension or revocation of licenses and the imposition of fines that must be deposited into the Florida Highway Patrol Safety Operating Trust Fund. Specifically, it establishes a tiered penalty system based on the number of violations and the severity of any resulting injuries or fatalities.

Additionally, the bill mandates that all private employers, regardless of size, must use the E-Verify system to verify the employment eligibility of new hires, with compliance deadlines set for July 1, 2025. It also prohibits public agencies from awarding future contracts to contractors who have violated employment eligibility laws. Law enforcement agencies are authorized to use the E-Verify system to investigate the immigration status of detained individuals. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the enforcement of immigration laws in the workplace and ensure that employers are held accountable for compliance.

Statutes affected:
S 782 Filed: 20.60