Key Takeaways
• Governor DeSantis signed two strict immigration bills on February 13, 2025, introducing new crimes, penalties, and education changes.
• Florida’s $300 million law enforcement boost funds hiring, equipment, and deeper local-federal 287(g) immigration cooperation.
• Undocumented immigrants convicted of capital felonies now face the death penalty under Florida’s new laws.
Florida Governor DeSantis took center stage in Tampa 🇺🇸 on May 12, 2025, holding a press conference at the Florida Highway Patrol Troop C headquarters. During this well-attended event, he spoke directly about Florida’s immigration enforcement strategy, sharing the stage with key officials like Dave Kerner, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Larry Keefe, Executive Director of the Florida State Board of Immigration Enforcement. This gathering, which started at 11:00 AM, was not only about outlining current plans—Governor DeSantis made it clear he wants the entire country to see Florida as a leader in how states enforce immigration laws.
Florida as a Model for Immigration Enforcement
Right from the beginning, Governor DeSantis called Florida’s approach to immigration enforcement a “model” for other states. He explained that Florida stands out because of strong state laws, tough penalties for breaking those laws, and very close cooperation between state and federal agencies. He made a point of saying that Florida’s method is working—and hinted that other states should consider similar steps. Tampa, a city that often finds itself at the crossroads of these debates, was the perfect setting for this message.
A big part of Florida’s current plan is working closely with federal law enforcement. The governor pointed out that Florida agencies take part in what are called “287(g) agreements.” These agreements are partnerships between local police departments and federal immigration authorities. In simple words, these partnerships allow local officers to help federal agents identify and process people who may be living in the United States 🇺🇸 without the right paperwork. According to Governor DeSantis, this hands-on work with federal agencies lets Florida respond quickly to immigration issues within its borders. Larry Keefe added that, in his view, federal agencies were able to get “operational control of the border” only seven weeks after President Trump took office, which he credits in part to this kind of teamwork.
The Importance of Interior Enforcement
Governor DeSantis made it clear that “interior enforcement”—which just means enforcing immigration laws inside the country, not just at the border—is a top priority for his administration. He criticized what he sees as a fall in this type of enforcement since President Biden became president, saying it was “decimated.” He believes that interior enforcement is just as important as border security because it makes sure no one can ignore immigration rules just by getting past the border.
State officials who spoke during the event backed up the governor’s view. They agreed that helping federal partners on the ground was the best way to deliver real results, not just grand statements. They said that actions matter more than words when it comes to keeping communities safe.
Key Elements of Florida’s New Immigration Laws
The press conference came only a few months after Governor DeSantis signed two sweeping immigration-related bills on February 13, 2025. These new laws brought several major changes, which he discussed in detail during the event:
- Creation of New Crimes and Higher Penalties: The state has created new criminal offenses that make it easier to charge people who break immigration laws inside the state. Penalties are now tougher than ever.
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It Is Now a Crime for Adults to Enter Florida Illegally: Florida now treats it as a crime for any adult to knowingly cross into the state without proper papers.
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Death Penalty for Some Cases: The new laws say that undocumented immigrants who are found guilty of a “capital felony” (the most serious crimes, like murder) can receive the death penalty.
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No In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students: The rules have changed so that undocumented immigrants can no longer get in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in Florida.
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More Money for Law Enforcement: About $300 million has been set aside for state law enforcement agencies to help them carry out these new rules and priorities. This includes hiring more officers, paying for better equipment, and helping with the costs of working with federal agencies.
Each of these points drew both praise and criticism, with supporters saying these rules will help keep Floridians safe, while others worry about their effects on immigrant communities and students who grew up in Florida but lack legal status.
Close Ties with the Trump Administration
Governor DeSantis was clear that he supports President Trump’s plans for immigration enforcement. He stated that his administration will continue to follow the path set under President Trump and accused President Biden’s administration of weakening immigration enforcement. Officials at the press conference pointed to the achievements they believe were made during President Trump’s term. They claimed swift improvements at the U.S. border, made possible by strong state and federal cooperation. For example, Larry Keefe said it took just seven weeks after President Trump’s inauguration for federal agencies to reach “operational control of the border,” a point he felt was crucial to Florida’s own successes.
This approach, according to Governor DeSantis, has made Florida a standout example for other states. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this close alignment with federal efforts has helped Florida shape its unique and aggressive style of immigration enforcement that continues to attract national attention.
New Laws, New Debates
The two immigration bills signed in February 2025 have started new discussions across Florida and the rest of the United States 🇺🇸. Supporters praise the added safety they believe these laws will bring. They also believe the new crimes and penalties send a clear message that Florida will not tolerate breaking immigration rules. Governor DeSantis and his team argue that the law helps target criminals and people who come to Florida to break the law, rather than average families hoping for a better life.
But the laws are not without critics. Many people worry about the new rule ending in-state tuition for undocumented immigrants. They point out that many of these students grew up in Florida, went to Florida schools, and have lived most of their lives in the state. Denying them access to affordable education, critics argue, only hurts their chances to overcome tough circumstances. Some immigration advocates also warn that treating border crossing as a crime—rather than a civil matter—could flood courts with new cases and lead to longer processing times for everyone.
Another controversy is the use of the death penalty for undocumented immigrants convicted of capital felonies. This new approach is rare and sure to face many legal challenges. Some people say these rules raise questions about fairness and justice, while others support them as a way to deter the most serious crimes.
The Impact on Law Enforcement
The focus on immigration enforcement means everyday police officers, highway patrol officers, and sheriffs across Florida now have new tools, money, and responsibilities. The extra $300 million means agencies can hire more staff and buy new equipment, but it also puts new expectations on officers to know and enforce complex immigration rules. The state expects local agencies to carry out these rules by joining “287(g) agreements” with the federal government, which means more training and coordination are needed.
In practice, this means a sheriff in a smaller county might now work side by side with federal immigration officers in ways never seen before. The hope is that this will allow faster action when people break immigration laws or are linked to criminal activity. But it also raises questions about how local police will balance these new duties with their regular work of keeping neighborhoods safe.
Tampa: A Spotlight on Statewide Issues
By choosing Tampa 🇺🇸 as the place for his announcement, Governor DeSantis signaled that immigration enforcement is not just a problem for border towns or big cities—it affects all parts of Florida. Tampa is a busy, growing city where issues like immigration, work permits, and law enforcement are often front and center. Holding the event there showed he wants his message heard not just in Miami or the Panhandle, but throughout the entire state.
For people living in Tampa, these changes mean more visible police work and new rules around schools and colleges. Families with mixed citizenship status may be more cautious, wondering if new laws could affect them personally, especially if a family member is undocumented.
Reaction from Stakeholders
After the press conference, reaction was divided as expected. Supporters of Governor DeSantis and those who favor strict immigration enforcement cheered the move, saying it sends a strong signal to people thinking about entering Florida illegally. They say the laws will make communities safer and keep resources focused on people legally in the country.
On the other side, immigrant advocates and some education supporters expressed fear that the rules go too far. They say young people who have lived most of their lives in Florida will be punished by losing in-state college tuition rates, which could change their futures. Some law professors and civil rights organizations have also questioned if making border crossing a crime under state law might clash with federal rules, possibly leading to court battles.
Employers and business leaders in Tampa and elsewhere have shown interest in how these changes might affect their workforce. Some worry that harsher laws could make it harder to find enough workers, especially as many industries in Florida rely on immigrants. Others support the idea, hoping that it will bring more clarity and stronger rules to the hiring process.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, many are watching to see how these new laws will work in practice. Some expect court challenges—especially to the parts about the death penalty and criminal charges for illegal entry. Others believe more states may look to Florida as a blueprint if they want to pass similar tough immigration enforcement rules.
Schools and colleges are bracing for changes, too. University leaders have already started looking for ways to help students affected by the end of in-state tuition, such as private scholarships or community support. Law enforcement agencies are preparing to spend new funds and adjust their training so officers know what is expected under the new laws.
Practical Information and Additional Resources
For families and individuals in Florida who may be affected by these changes, it is important to stay informed. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s official page on immigration provides up-to-date information on the state’s rules, as well as contact options if you have questions or concerns. Officials recommend asking experienced legal professionals or local authorities if you have specific questions about your own situation.
Summary
Florida Governor DeSantis’s press conference in Tampa 🇺🇸 showed that the state is serious about leading in immigration enforcement. By bringing state leaders together and discussing close ties with the federal government, he made a strong case that Florida’s model is tough and effective. The new laws he signed in February 2025, which include new crimes, stronger penalties, and big changes to education, are already starting new debates among families, schools, and state agencies.
As the story continues, all eyes are on how these changes will affect everyday life in Florida and whether other states will follow the same direction. For now, Governor DeSantis’s message is clear: Florida plans to keep leading the way on immigration enforcement and will work closely with federal partners to do it. Tampa’s role as the site of this announcement shows that immigration issues matter to every part of the state, and decisions made there will shape Florida’s future for years to come.
Learn Today
287(g) Agreements → Partnerships allowing local law enforcement to assist federal immigration authorities in identifying and processing undocumented individuals.
Capital Felony → A category of the most serious crimes, such as murder, which may result in the death penalty under state law.
In-State Tuition → Discounted tuition rates at public colleges and universities offered to residents of a particular state, now denied to undocumented students in Florida.
Interior Enforcement → The enforcement of immigration laws within the country’s borders, instead of only at entry points like borders or airports.
Undocumented Immigrants → Individuals residing in a country without official authorization or valid immigration documents recognized by the government.
This Article in a Nutshell
Florida is positioning itself as the national model for strict immigration enforcement under Governor DeSantis. Highlighting a $300 million investment and tough new penalties, the 2025 laws introduce new crimes and cut tuition benefits. Critics warn of community impact, but DeSantis’s agenda signals a bold, controversial future for state policies.
— By VisaVerge.com
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