Florida’s New Immigration Measures Explained
Florida has some of the toughest immigration programs in the nation, and several new developments have underlined this point with clarity. These new changes affect healthcare and voting – and migrants of all types should become aware of them to avoid potential legal issues. One of the best ways to address legal challenges as an immigrant is to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer in Palm Beach County.
Florida Takes Steps Against Noncitizen Voters
One of the most important rights of a US citizen is the right to vote in a federal election. As we approach the next election, there is growing concern about issues such as voter IDs, fraud, and mail-in ballots. To combat the issue of noncitizen voters, Florida has requested data from federal immigration organizations. This may provide further safeguards against the potential for voter fraud. Statistics show that there are millions of noncitizens in Florida, and some of these people have been caught voting in past elections.
If you plan to vote in a US election, it makes sense to gain citizenship as quickly as possible. This is something that a Palm Beach Gardens immigration lawyer may be able to assist with – and you could qualify for expedited processing.
Controversy Over Migrant Questioning at Florida Hospitals
In September of 2024, it was reported that hospital staff in Florida were required to ask patients about their legal status. This is one of the Sunshine State’s most recent anti-immigration policies, but many hospitals allow patients to receive care even if they decline to answer the question. The obvious goal is to reduce the burden of illegal immigrants on the state’s healthcare system. Supporters of this program say that Americans should not have to pay for the medical care of noncitizens.
Border Agents in Florida Keys Start Using Balloon-Based Surveillance
In related news, Border Agents in the Florida Keys started using a new “blimp-like” surveillance system called Aerostat. This is a tethered balloon that tracks illegal immigration in the area, and it works in tandem with satellite systems. This indicates that Florida is tracking down on illegal immigration – particularly inflows from boats in the Caribbean. This is yet another reason to pursue legal green cards rather than risk being caught by new Border Agent technology.
How Can a Palm Beach County Immigration Lawyer Help?
A Palm Beach County immigration lawyer may be able to help migrants address many of these issues. One of their key roles in society is to defend migrants from deportation, helping them stay in the country despite legal challenges. Of course, immigration lawyers can also help migrants pursue legal green cards or citizenship – and this can mitigate most challenges faced by new arrivals in Florida. To learn more about these options, consider a consultation with The Devore Law Group.
Sources:
tallahassee.com/story/news/politics/2024/09/16/florida-looks-to-clamp-down-on-immigrant-voters-despite-few-incidents/75188399007/
apnews.com/article/immigration-hospitals-florida-texas-desantis-abbott-21faed1d4d1b984ea3557d09f22dab9d
upi.com/Top_News/US/2024/09/17/Argos-2-Air-Marine-Operations-Customs-Border-Protection-Mexico-immigration-drugs-surveillance/3321726592866/