House Bill 315, known as the "Florida Economic Prosperity and Immigration Act," seeks to improve the integration of immigrants and refugees into Florida's economy by establishing the Office for New Americans within the Department of Commerce. This office will focus on immigrant inclusion, workforce needs, and serve as an information hub for immigration policies. The bill modifies driver license requirements by accepting additional foreign documents for identity verification and removes previous mandates for documents from the Department of Homeland Security. It also prohibits discrimination based on immigration status in education and employment, while easing E-Verify requirements for employers.

The bill further expands protections against discrimination by adding immigration status to the Florida Civil Rights Act and prohibits law enforcement from engaging in immigration enforcement activities near schools and childcare facilities. It establishes the State Board of Immigration Enforcement and mandates that law enforcement agencies report compliance with new regulations. Additionally, the bill addresses the treatment of children in education, ensuring access regardless of immigration status, and introduces out-of-state fee waivers for eligible students attending Florida secondary schools. Overall, HB 315 aims to create a more inclusive environment for immigrants while ensuring their rights and access to services are protected.

Statutes affected:
H 315 Filed: 20.60, 322.08, 322.142, 322.17, 322.19, 454.021, 760.01, 760.05, 760.07, 760.08, 760.24, 760.26, 760.60, 775.0848, 787.07, 908.102, 908.104, 908.11, 943.1718, 1002.31, 1003.21, 1009.40, 435.04, 480.041, 480.043, 501.9741, 775.30, 794.056, 921.0022, 938.085