AILA South Florida Meets With Florida Lawmakers on Immigration Policy
Chapter chair Laura Kelley was part of a delegation of immigration attorneys representing the South Florida chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) who traveled to Tallahassee to promote positive reforms in state immigration laws.
Over 1,200 members strong, AILA South Florida is committed to working toward just outcomes for immigrants interacting with the legal system. Chapter leaders traveled to the Florida Capitol to make progress on the following objectives:
Access to Driver’s Licenses in Florida
Foreign nationals who qualify for driver’s licenses often have difficulty obtaining them because of a lack of process transparency on the part of the state and USCIS, sometimes resulting in erroneous refusals.
Unclear Legislation Prohibiting Some Foreign Principals from Owning Land in Florida
Despite the law being in effect, its implementation is unclear. There’s an urgent need for clarification with regards to required forms and affidavits, as well as any upcoming regulations and guidance.
Excessive Penalties for Transportation of Individuals into Florida
Recent legislation makes it a second- or third-degree felony to knowingly and willfully transport into Florida an individual who has entered the United States in violation of law and has not been inspected by the Federal Government. These harsh penalties present challenges for transportation businesses operating across state lines and potentially make it a crime for Floridians helping family members who wish to settle in the area.
Hospitals Inquiring About Immigration Status
Legislation requiring hospitals to ask patients about their immigration status may have a chilling effect on immigrants seeking care, further impacting communities that are already underserved when it comes to healthcare. In addition, the state demanding quarterly reports from hospitals detailing information on patient responses may increase administrative burdens on hospitals around the state.
AILA South Florida left Tallahassee with strong ties to state representatives and senators of both parties, connections that can inform future policy developments impacting immigrant communities and all Floridians.
