Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has recently declared that the Florida Highway Patrol will undertake new immigration enforcement responsibilities. According to Efe, this move aims to enhance the application of immigration laws at various checkpoints, forming a crucial part of his strategy to combat illegal immigration and bolster border security within the state.
During a press briefing in Tallahassee, DeSantis stated that highway patrol officers will collaborate with both federal and state immigration authorities to identify and apprehend individuals residing unlawfully in the United States. "Florida will not be a sanctuary for illegal immigration. We will continue to take decisive actions to ensure the safety of our citizens," the governor asserted.
On his social media account, DeSantis further elaborated, saying: "This agreement empowers state law enforcement officers from the Florida Highway Patrol to serve and execute arrest warrants for immigration violations, apprehend any foreign national attempting to enter our country illegally, and turn them over to ICE promptly. They will also have the authority to question suspected illegal immigrants and detain anyone violating our immigration laws. Our state law enforcement will be equipped to issue immigrant detainers and prepare prosecution documents in advance, expediting deportations."
He added, "In cooperation with our federal partners, Florida stands ready to support the enforcement of our nation's laws and protect all Americans from the scourge of illegal immigration."
These new duties for the Highway Patrol are set to roll out in the coming weeks, with a primary focus on major highways and high-traffic areas. This decision forms part of a broader context of intensified immigration policies in Florida. Recently, raids in Palm Beach County led to the arrest of 32 individuals from various nations, including Guatemala, Haiti, Mexico, and Venezuela.
According to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), many detainees had criminal records for offenses such as drug possession, theft, and fraud. Since the inauguration of Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, ICE has ramped up operations in the region, causing increasing anxiety among undocumented immigrants who live in constant fear of being detained and deported.
While the government claims that deportations target "violent criminals," the side effects of these policies have impacted thousands of essential workers. Sectors like agriculture, construction, and healthcare, which heavily rely on immigrant labor, have been particularly affected.
The repercussions of these actions are deeply felt in the immigrant community. Many individuals avoid leaving their homes due to fear of detention, leading to a significant decrease in available labor for essential industries. The social impact is profound, with families being torn apart and essential workers absent from their jobs.
Key Questions on Florida's Immigration Enforcement
What new responsibilities will the Florida Highway Patrol undertake?
The Florida Highway Patrol will now assist in immigration enforcement, collaborating with federal and state authorities to identify and detain individuals residing illegally in the U.S.
How will this policy impact undocumented immigrants in Florida?
This policy is likely to increase fear and anxiety among undocumented immigrants, as it involves heightened enforcement and potential detentions, impacting their daily lives and employment.
What industries might be affected by these immigration policies?
Industries such as agriculture, construction, and healthcare, which depend heavily on immigrant labor, are expected to face labor shortages due to these intensified immigration policies.