Florida Legislature Advances Immigration Enforcement Bills Requiring Expanded E-Verify Use

The Florida Legislature is advancing legislation that would expand mandatory E-Verify requirements for employers and strengthen cooperation between state and federal immigration authorities, according to state lawmakers.

The bills represent the latest policy push by state officials as Gov. Ron DeSantis continues an active legislative session that has already seen him sign well over 100 measures this year.

Supporters of the immigration enforcement legislation say the measures will protect Florida workers and conserve public resources. The expanded E-Verify requirements would mandate that more employers use the federal electronic system to verify the work eligibility of new hires.

The legislation also seeks to increase coordination between Florida agencies and federal authorities on immigration enforcement matters, according to lawmakers backing the bills.

Opponents of the measures have raised concerns about potential negative impacts on Florida's economy and immigrant communities. Critics argue the legislation could harm key industries that rely heavily on immigrant labor, though specific sectors were not identified in legislative discussions.

The immigration bills are moving through the Legislature as state government pursues multiple policy initiatives across different areas. Earlier this year, DeSantis signed legislation to substantially increase the homestead property tax exemption, with the changes set to take effect in 2027 and 2028.

State officials have also advanced changes to SNAP eligibility rules scheduled to begin in 2026, which will reshape safety-net access for low-income Florida residents.

Beyond the Legislature, Florida's attorney general has escalated enforcement actions in other areas, recently issuing criminal subpoenas to the gaming platform Roblox. The subpoenas relate to allegations that the company has not adequately prevented child predators from targeting minors using the platform.

Local governments across Florida have also been active on policy matters. Winter Park recently moved forward with ordinances that would limit protests at public facilities, including libraries and event centers. Those local measures reflect ongoing debates about free speech, public conduct, and the use of government-owned spaces.

The immigration enforcement bills continue the state's focus on strengthening verification systems and enforcement mechanisms, though the measures still face additional legislative steps before potentially reaching the governor's desk.

Lawmakers have not announced specific timelines for final votes on the immigration legislation.