Florida immigration enforcement law expands workplace verification requirements, increases penalties on employers

A new Florida immigration enforcement law has taken effect, expanding requirements for employers to verify workers' legal status and increasing penalties on businesses that knowingly hire undocumented workers.

The law broadens the state's use of E-Verify, an electronic system that checks employees' eligibility to work in the United States. Businesses that knowingly employ undocumented workers will face stiffer penalties under the new requirements.

Supporters of the legislation say the measure will protect Florida's workforce and economy by ensuring jobs go to workers authorized to be in the country. The law takes effect as Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed more than 100 measures this year, including a substantial increase to the homestead property tax exemption starting in 2027 and 2028.

Critics of the immigration enforcement law have warned it could worsen existing labor shortages in key Florida industries. Agricultural and construction sectors, which rely heavily on immigrant labor, may be particularly affected by the new requirements, according to those opposing the measure.

The law's implementation comes as Florida officials have pursued several major policy changes in recent months. The state moved forward with tightened SNAP eligibility rules set to take effect in 2026, which will reshape access to food assistance for low-income residents.

Florida's attorney general has also escalated a high-profile investigation into child safety, issuing criminal subpoenas to the gaming platform Roblox over allegations the company has not adequately prevented child predators from targeting children on its platform.

Local governments across Florida have also been active in passing new regulations. Winter Park recently advanced ordinances that would limit protests at public facilities including libraries and event centers, reflecting ongoing debates over speech and use of public space.

The expanded E-Verify requirements represent a significant shift in how Florida employers must document their workforce. The law aims to create uniform standards across the state for verifying employee eligibility.

Business groups have expressed concern about the administrative burden of expanded verification requirements, while immigration enforcement advocates view the measure as necessary to uphold federal immigration law at the state level. The practical impact on Florida's labor market and business operations will become clearer in coming months as employers adapt to the new requirements.