In an unexpected turn within his history of restrictive immigration policies, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 915, a new law aimed at protecting immigrants —including undocumented individuals— from fraud committed by notaries public who pose as legal advisors.
The regulation, which will come into effect on July 1, 2025, establishes strict limits on the services that unlicensed notaries can provide, a measure long requested by pro-immigrant organizations in light of the increase in legal scams affecting vulnerable communities across the state.
Also known as the "Representation Services Advertising Law," HB 915 prohibits notaries public without a law degree from advertising or providing services related to immigration procedures.
These must include, clearly visible in their offices and promotional materials, a notice that says: "I am not a licensed attorney and cannot provide legal advice nor accept fees for legal advice. I am not accredited to represent you in immigration matters."
The law also prohibits the use of terms such as "immigration assistant" or "immigration specialist," which could mislead individuals who associate the role of a notary in their countries with comprehensive legal functions.
Additionally, a legal avenue will be established for the victims of these practices to file claims for damages, including the possibility of recovering legal fees.
The approval of the law has been hailed as an important step in protecting immigrants, especially in areas like South and Central Florida, where notary fraud is common.
The law was promoted by Democratic representatives Johanna López and Marie Paul Woodson, along with Senator Tina Polsky, and received broad bipartisan support.
Only Republican representative Kiyan Michael from Jacksonville voted against it. Michael, a staunch critic of illegal immigration, has stated that his position is influenced by the death of his son in an accident caused by an immigrant who had been deported twice.
Despite this, conservative and religious sectors also supported the law. Michael Sheedy, executive director of the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, stated that the measure will benefit the entire community: “Immigrants who are trying to work within the system will be better protected against fraud. This is good for everyone,” he noted.
Florida, one of the states with the highest immigrant population in the United States, has become in recent years an epicenter of harsh immigration measures.
From labor restrictions to raids and direct collaboration with ICE, thousands of immigrants live in constant fear of deportation.
In that context, HB 915 represents a rare legislative victory for immigrant rights and signals that, at least on certain issues, it is possible to achieve consensus in favor of the most vulnerable.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Immigrant Protection Law in Florida
What is law HB 915 and what is its main purpose?
The HB 915 law aims to protect immigrants from notary fraud, establishing limits on the services that unlicensed notaries, such as lawyers, can provide, especially regarding immigration matters. This measure responds to an increase in legal scams that affect vulnerable communities in Florida.
When will the HB 915 law take effect in Florida?
The HB 915 law will come into effect on July 1, 2025. Starting from that date, the restrictions and protections established to prevent notarial fraud affecting immigrants in the state will be implemented.
What measures does the law include to prevent notarial fraud against immigrants?
The HB 915 law prohibits notaries public without a law degree from advertising or providing services related to immigration procedures. It requires these notaries to display a notice indicating that they are not lawyers and cannot offer legal advice. It also prevents the use of misleading terms such as "immigration assistant."
What impact does law HB 915 have on Florida's immigrant community?
The law represents a legislative victory for immigrant rights, providing protection against notarial fraud, particularly in areas where such practices are common. Additionally, it allows victims to sue for damages, thereby strengthening their legal protection.
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