The proposed bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance the enforcement of immigration status and employment eligibility 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 also increases penalties for employers who violate employment provisions related to unauthorized aliens, including the suspension or revocation of licenses and significant fines, which must be deposited into the Florida Highway Patrol Safety Operating Trust Fund. Notably, all private employers will be required to use the E-Verify system to verify new employees' eligibility, regardless of the number of employees they have.

Additionally, the bill introduces stricter penalties for employers whose unauthorized alien employees cause injury or death, with fines reaching up to $500,000 and permanent revocation of licenses for repeated violations. It also allows law enforcement agencies to use the E-Verify system to investigate the immigration status of detained individuals. The bill aims to ensure compliance with employment verification laws and imposes a timeline for public and private employers to adhere to these requirements, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1033 Filed: 20.60