Recently, Florida lawmakers passed a bill that expands the state’s governor’s plan to relocate illegal immigrants from one place to another in the US. This means that the governor, Ron DeSantis, now has the power to move these individuals anywhere, even to states with sanctuary policies.
The bill creates the Unauthorized Alien Transport Program and gives DeSantis $10 million to use for the program. It also says that any money spent on past immigration relocation efforts is approved.
Last year, DeSantis used taxpayer money to fly illegal immigrants from Texas to Massachusetts, which some saw as a political stunt. A lawsuit was filed against him, but the new bill could potentially nullify the lawsuit.
Democrats are against the bill, calling it “indefensible” and Republicans say it will help people who want to go to sanctuary cities. DeSantis will review the bill and decide if he wants to sign it. The bill also allows DeSantis to give contracts to companies to implement the program.
The reason for expanding the relocation program is because of the increase in illegal border crossings. Republicans believe that by doing this, they can help address the issue.
The bill also takes aim at President Biden’s border policies and says that without action from Florida, there could be negative effects on the economy and education system. DeSantis and other Republican governors have taken measures in recent months to address what they see as Biden’s failed immigration policies.
