New Immigration Enforcement Measures Proposed in Florida

Senator Ashley Moody has rolled out new legislation aimed at enhancing immigration enforcement at the state level, seeking to empower federal immigration officials by acting as what she describes as a “power multiplier.” This proposed bill, referred to as the “Refund Immigration Partnership with Police to Allow Local Law Enforcement Act” or “Ripple Act,” seeks to expand the existing 287(g) program, which permits states to assist in enforcing immigration regulations.

This legislation would broaden the range of reimbursable expenses for local and state law enforcement agencies engaging in the 287(g) program. Moody’s office stated that the bill intends to bolster short-term federal immigration enforcement capabilities, allowing local agencies, already sworn to uphold laws, to assist more effectively.

“By broadening the 287(g) program, we can offer necessary resources to local law enforcement and help remove more dangerous offenders from our communities,” a spokesperson mentioned, adding some observations about disruptions noted particularly in California. The law would facilitate collaboration among local, state, and federal entities to maintain order and accountability. “We won’t tolerate this level of lawlessness,” they emphasized.

Furthermore, as a serving U.S. senator, Moody has expressed intent to collaborate with President Trump in an effort to counter what she views as failures of the Biden administration. The Ripple Act, alongside the “Stop Government Abandonment and Deployment Scandal Act,” represents critical measures in that strategy.

Representative Laurel Lee has also introduced related measures in the House, asserting that the bill guarantees local law enforcement the vital support necessary to uphold immigration laws effectively.

Amidst rising civil unrest in places like Los Angeles, Lee highlighted the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to uphold the law, framing their actions as dedicated to safeguarding the community during times of crisis. “Their commitment underscores our valuing of national security,” she remarked.

The recent introduction of this bill has sparked considerable opposition, particularly in the context of heightened tensions and protests against immigration enforcement efforts initiated by the Trump administration, which faced violent backlash in cities like Los Angeles. The administration’s response included deploying significant national guard resources to maintain safety around federal facilities.

Additionally, Moody has put forward legislation targeting existing policies related to the placement of unaccompanied minors by the Refugee Resettlement Office (ORR). This “Stop the Government Abandonment and Deployment Scandal Act” seeks to ensure that minors are placed in appropriate, monitored settings as their immigration cases progress. Currently, ORR handles the care and placement of unaccompanied minors after they are processed by agencies like Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

A spokesperson shared concerns regarding the Biden administration’s handling of unaccompanied minors, claiming that many were put at risk amid the significant challenges facing unregulated immigration processes. Moody, reflecting on her past as Florida’s Attorney General, criticized the perceived negative impact of the current administration on immigration and national security protocols, arguing that it has led to severe vulnerabilities both for the country and for vulnerable children. “I’ve consistently fought to protect our borders and prevent trafficking,” she declared.