The new laws in Florida come as President Donald Trump cracks down on illegal immigration. They impose harsher penalties for offenses committed by people illegally in the U.S. than for everyone else. The consequences are particularly stiff for first-degree murder, which now carries an automatic death sentence for anyone who is in the U.S. illegally.
While Florida is more aggressive than most, there are other states considering similar measures to enhance criminal penalties based on immigration status.
Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis says “Florida will be safer and securer,” and a model for other states, because of its sweeping immigration laws.
The stiffer penalties are meant to be a deterrent, Republican state Rep. Lawrence McClure said.
“Don’t come to the state of Florida illegally,” he said. “That’s the premise.”
