TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida’s newly established immigration enforcement board held its first meeting on Monday, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the state’s approach to immigration issues.

The board, which aims to strengthen immigration enforcement across the state, named Larry Keefe as its executive director. Keefe, a former U.S. attorney in Tallahassee, is best known for his controversial role in organizing migrant flights to Martha’s Vineyard.

Larry Keefe’s New Role

Larry Keefe, who gained national attention for overseeing the controversial migrant flights last year, will now lead the state’s efforts in managing immigration enforcement. As executive director, Keefe will oversee the board’s activities and coordinate the efforts of various state and local law enforcement agencies involved in immigration enforcement. His appointment reflects Florida’s increasing commitment to addressing immigration issues with a more hands-on approach, according to state officials.

Governor Ron DeSantis praised the creation of the new board and the legislative changes that were passed recently, which he believes will strengthen Florida’s stance on immigration enforcement. In his remarks, the governor emphasized that local and state law enforcement agencies will now be required to actively participate in immigration enforcement.

New Mandates for Law Enforcement

With the establishment of the board, Florida lawmakers have passed sweeping immigration reforms that require all state and local law enforcement agencies to take part in immigration enforcement. Governor DeSantis highlighted this requirement, stressing that law enforcement agencies can no longer sit on the sidelines when it comes to handling immigration matters. This new directive will likely mean increased coordination between various agencies, including local police, sheriffs, and state-level law enforcement, to ensure consistent immigration enforcement across Florida.

The state’s new law also mandates that law enforcement agencies have the necessary tools and resources to carry out their duties related to immigration enforcement. This includes additional funding for state and local police forces to help cover the cost of their new responsibilities.

A New Grant Program to Support Enforcement

In addition to the structural changes, the board authorized a new grant program aimed at providing financial assistance to state and local law enforcement agencies. The funds will be used to help pay for the additional costs associated with immigration enforcement, such as training, equipment, and manpower needed to carry out the new mandates.

This grant program is seen as a crucial step in ensuring that local and state agencies have the resources they need to implement the state’s new immigration policies effectively. By providing financial support, the state hopes to smooth the transition and minimize the burden on local law enforcement.

Implications for Florida and Beyond

The creation of this new immigration enforcement board and the passing of sweeping reforms come at a time when immigration is a hotly debated issue across the United States. Florida, under Governor DeSantis, has become one of the leading states pushing for stricter immigration laws and policies. The state’s stance on immigration enforcement is likely to influence other states and could potentially lead to further reforms or similar measures being adopted nationwide.

Supporters of the new law argue that it is necessary to uphold the rule of law and protect communities from illegal immigration. They believe that by giving local law enforcement more power and resources, Florida can better address the challenges associated with immigration.

On the other hand, critics argue that the new measures may lead to racial profiling, increased tension in communities, and a disproportionate impact on immigrant populations. The controversial migrant flights to Martha’s Vineyard, which were part of Keefe’s previous work, have already sparked debates about the ethics and effectiveness of such actions.

As the immigration enforcement board begins its work under the leadership of Larry Keefe, Florida’s approach to immigration enforcement is shifting towards a more coordinated and aggressive stance. The board’s actions will likely have a significant impact on immigration policy both in Florida and across the nation. Whether the new policies will lead to long-term success or further division remains to be seen, but it is clear that the state is committed to taking a more active role in shaping its immigration future.