In Tallahassee, Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis made an announcement on Wednesday regarding a list of out-of-state driver's licenses that are no longer considered valid in Florida due to a new law. This law is considered to be the toughest immigration crackdown in Florida to date.
Governor DeSantis, in collaboration with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, has compiled a list of licenses from five states that are now invalid in Florida. These changes went into effect on July 1, and apply to out-of-state licenses if the driver is in the United States illegally.
The following states' licenses are no longer valid in Florida:
1. Delaware
2. Connecticut
3. Hawaii
4. Rhode Island
5. Vermont
According to Governor DeSantis, individuals who are in the country illegally and have violated the law should not possess a government-issued ID that grants them access to state-funded services and privileges reserved for lawful residents. He emphasized Florida's commitment to upholding the rule of law, even if the federal government fails to do so, in order to protect its citizens, state, and country.
It is important to note that the information about invalid out-of-state licenses is subject to change as other states may revise their driver's license issuance requirements. The governor's office will provide periodic updates on this matter.
In a statement, Kerner from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles expressed their readiness to strictly enforce Senate Bill 1718. This legislation aligns with their goals of enhancing homeland security and intercepting criminal activity. It sends a clear message that Florida will not incentivize undocumented immigrants and warns criminal cartels and those planning to unlawfully cross the national border that Florida is not their desired destination. Florida will not accept driver's licenses from individuals who cannot prove lawful presence in the United States. By taking this stance, Florida is committed to creating a safer environment.
Florida Highway Patrol Colonel Gary Howze II emphasized that SB1718 prioritizes safety and security. The enforcement of this law ensures that individuals encountered by law enforcement are properly identified and are welcome to enjoy all that the state has to offer. Public safety and community well-being are their primary concerns, and they are dedicated to taking any necessary measures to achieve these goals.
Earlier this year, Governor DeSantis signed SB1718 into law, which he considers the strongest anti-illegal immigration legislation in the country. This law prohibits the issuance of a driver's license to anyone who cannot provide proof of lawful presence in the United States. Additionally, it specifies that out-of-state driver's licenses exclusively issued to illegal aliens are invalid in Florida.
Florida's new immigration reform law also includes a requirement for new hires in businesses with 25 or more employees to undergo a work status check. Furthermore, it imposes stronger penalties for those who knowingly employ or transport undocumented immigrants within the state.