Governor DeSantis Signs New Bills into Law Targeting Illegal Immigrants

On Friday, Governor Ron DeSantis signed three new bills into law that aim to crack down on illegal immigration in Florida. These laws, CS 1036, CS 1589, and HB 1451, introduce stricter penalties for crimes committed by illegal aliens, revise penalties for driving without a valid license, and prohibit counties and cities from accepting certain IDs issued to individuals not lawfully present in the US.

If you are undocumented or otherwise don’t have legal status, It’s crucial that you understand how these new laws may impact you or your loved ones if you’re facing charges. Here’s what you need to know:

CS 1036: Reclassification of Criminal Penalties

Under this new law, if you were previously convicted of a crime related to illegally reentering the US after deportation or removal, you could face higher-level charges for any new offenses. The same applies if you remain in the country after a deportation or removal order.

Additionally, the law introduces enhanced penalties if a crime is committed to benefit or further the interests of a “transnational crime organization” involved in international drug, human, or weapons trafficking. In these cases, misdemeanors and felonies will be bumped to the next highest offense level.

CS 1589: Driving Without a Valid License

This law revises the penalties for driving without a valid license in Florida. Most notably, it mandates a minimum jail sentence for a third or subsequent conviction. If you’re an undocumented immigrant charged with driving without a license, you could be at risk of deportation if convicted, especially for multiple offenses.

HB 1451: Restrictions on Identification Documents

HB 1451 prohibits Florida counties and municipalities from accepting IDs that are knowingly issued to people not lawfully present in the US, with the exception of federal government documents. This could make it even more challenging for undocumented immigrants to access essential services.

Protecting Your Rights and Your Future

These new laws are part of an ongoing effort by Florida lawmakers to penalize illegal immigration. However, everyone in the US has constitutional rights, regardless of immigration status. If you’re an undocumented immigrant facing criminal charges, it’s essential to have an experienced attorney on your side who understands these complex laws and can vigorously defend your rights.

At The Edelstein Firm, we have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in a wide range of criminal cases, including those with immigration considerations. We’re here to listen to your story, explain your options, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

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