TAMPA, Fla. – In a press conference Monday in Tampa, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis emphasized the state’s leadership in illegal immigration enforcement, asserting that Florida is setting the standard for the nation.
“We’re making huge progress on the issue of enforcing laws against illegal immigration,” DeSantis stated, claiming that no other state is doing as much as Florida.
During the press conference, DeSantis announced The Florida Highway Patrol now has the authority to independently conduct operations and arrest illegal immigrants without relying on federal government involvement.,
DeSantis also mentioned a proposal under consideration that, if approved federally, would involve military judge advocates serving as immigration judges, establishing temporary detention facilities, and providing transportation.
DeSantis highlighted that Florida previously allowed sanctuary cities, a policy he opposed. He said that upon becoming governor, he worked with the legislature to ban these cities, viewing it as a crucial step for maintaining law and order.
According to DeSantis, Florida leads the nation in E-Verify implementation, enhancing employment eligibility verification. All 67 Florida sheriffs have signed 287(g) agreements with ICE, enabling local law enforcement to assist in immigration enforcement.
DeSantis noted that recent operations, including Operation Tidal Wave, have resulted in the apprehension of over 1,100 illegal immigrants, including members of gangs such as MS-13.
“We need to give Highway Patrol a raise,” DeSantis said.
He noted that the troopers have been instrumental in immigration enforcement efforts, saying, “They’ve been at the border for years...helping the feds in this.”
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He criticized the Florida House for rejecting pay increases for the Highway Patrol, calling it “beyond me” and underscoring the need for competitive compensation to retain skilled officers.
Dave Kerner, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, praised the collaboration between state and federal agencies.
“When these men and women put on their uniform, they know that they’re going to work in dangerous conditions with the governor backing them,” Kerner said.
Larry Keefe, Executive Director of the Florida State Board of Immigration Enforcement, emphasized that Florida’s strategies are becoming a model for other states, with the federal government recognizing the state’s effective approach to immigration enforcement.
