DeSantis calls special session to toughen measures against illegal immigration

MIAMI.- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis convened a special legislative session with the primary goal of addressing illegal immigration, in line with actions expected to implement federal policies under the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

The meeting of members of the state Congress is scheduled to begin on January 27 and seeks to prepare the state to align with the changes that are anticipated at the federal level, marking a new chapter in Florida’s strict immigration measures.

Preparations

DeSantis said his administration wants to act proactively to ensure Florida is ready for federal illegal immigration policies that the Trump administration plans to implement.

According to the governor, these actions include possible executive orders and reforms that will require state collaboration.

Among the proposals stands out the allocation of state funds to support the federal government in the deportation of undocumented immigrants, as well as the imposition of new responsibilities on local law enforcement agencies in handling immigration-related cases.

Impact on communities and current measures

Florida already has a legal framework that has toughened conditions for undocumented immigrants.

In 2023, a law was enacted that invalidates driver’s licenses issued in other states to undocumented immigrants and requires hospitals to collect information about patients’ immigration status.

These measures have generated concern among civil rights advocates, who warn about possible family separations and the impact on vulnerable communities.

Civil rights groups and pro-immigrant organizations have expressed that this call could exacerbate existing tensions and make the integration of immigrant communities in the state even more difficult.

Additional topics on the agenda

In addition to immigration, the special legislative session will include other topics relevant to Florida. Among them, stand out:

  • Regulations to improve safety in condominiums, a measure that comes after the building collapse in Surfside in 2021.
  • Financial aid for communities affected by hurricanes, after a series of storms that devastated areas of the state in 2024.
  • Reforms to combat fraud in collecting signatures for constitutional amendments.

These proposals reflect a comprehensive approach by state government to address key issues affecting residents, although immigration remains at the center of DeSantis’ policies.

Political and social repercussions

The calling of this special session underscores the close relationship between Governor DeSantis and President-elect Trump.

With this move, Florida could become a model for replicating stricter immigration policies at the national level.

However, it also highlights the social tensions that these measures generate in a state where immigrant communities play a vital role in the local economy and culture.