The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, has left open the possibility that, in the near future, residents of the state may have to prove their legal status in order to purchase regulated products such as lottery tickets or alcoholic beverages.
"Stay alert," he warned on Thursday during a press conference in the southwest of Broward County, where he announced new measures for cooperation between state agencies and federal immigration authorities, reported the newspaper .
DeSantis announced that his administration is expanding collaboration on immigration issues through the 287(g) program, which allows state and local agencies to work alongside the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to identify and detain undocumented immigrants.
So far, almost a hundred police departments in Florida are participating in this program, but the governor indicated that the initiative will not be limited to law enforcement.
The plan now includes other state agencies such as the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, the Florida Gaming Control Commission, and the Florida Lottery itself.
According to DeSantis, these entities "operate in environments rich in targets" for immigration surveillance and, therefore, their agents could be "deputized" to act in coordination with ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
"During their routine inspection and investigation tasks, special agents often come into contact with individuals who may be in our country illegally," said the governor. "Therefore, we believe that empowering these officers in regulatory spaces will be another resource for these immigration compliance efforts."
Will proof of citizenship be required for consumers?
When asked whether consumers will need to show proof of citizenship or legal residency to purchase lottery tickets or products like beer, DeSantis did not provide a definitive answer.
“I think it remains to be seen exactly how it will be done,” he replied. “These officials are involved in areas where they will likely be able to add value to what ICE and DHS are doing. So just stay tuned and see how it unfolds.”
The statements were made during a event organized by federal authorities to highlight the recent arrest of over 1,100 individuals deemed “criminal aliens”. Of that total, 378 already had final deportation orders issued by immigration courts, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Currently, undocumented immigrants are not explicitly prohibited from purchasing or claiming lottery prizes in Florida or other states in the country. Lottery agencies typically do not inquire about the immigration status of those claiming a prize.
However, to collect significant prizes, as is the case with lotteries or in casinos, it is necessary to present a valid official identification, such as a driver's license, passport, social security number, or a state-accepted form of ID.
For tax purposes, non-citizens or those who do not present valid documentation are subject to a federal withholding rate of 30%, higher than the 24% rate that applies to U.S. citizens, in addition to potential state taxes.
However, DeSantis's recent statements could signal a shift in this practice by introducing potential immigration checks in areas that have previously been exempt from such controls.
Frequently Asked Questions About the New Immigration Measures in Florida
What is Ron DeSantis's proposal regarding the citizenship test to purchase lottery tickets in Florida?
Governor Ron DeSantis suggested the possibility that in the future, it may be required to demonstrate legal status to purchase regulated products in Florida, such as lottery tickets or alcoholic beverages. DeSantis did not give a definitive answer on whether this will be implemented, stating that residents should "stay alert" for future developments. This proposal is part of a broader set of measures aimed at strengthening the enforcement of immigration laws in the state.
What is the 287(g) program and how is it applied in Florida?
The 287(g) program authorizes state and local agencies to collaborate with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the identification and detention of undocumented immigrants. In Florida, this program has been expanded under DeSantis's administration, allowing various agencies, not just law enforcement, to participate in immigration control efforts. This includes the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, and the Florida Lottery, among others.
What are the implications of the new immigration policies for immigrants in Florida?
The recent immigration policies promoted by DeSantis intensify measures against illegal immigration in Florida. This includes the possibility of requiring proof of citizenship to access certain products and services, as well as the collaboration of multiple state agencies with ICE to identify and apprehend undocumented immigrants. Additionally, new laws have been enacted that criminalize illegal entry into the state, and penalties have been increased for undocumented immigrants who commit crimes.
What criticisms have emerged regarding DeSantis's immigration measures?
DeSantis's immigration measures have been criticized by human rights advocacy groups and Democratic leaders. It is argued that these policies could promote racial discrimination and erode trust between immigrant communities and local authorities. Furthermore, it is noted that the focus on immigration as a security issue could have negative impacts on the state's economy, particularly in sectors that rely on immigrant labor.
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