Migrants, a large part of the population of the southern Florida, will be the most affected with the entry into force of some controversial laws approved by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Already known for his anti-immigrant stance and discourse, DeSantis –GOP candidate for the 2024 presidential elections, signed some of toughest migration measures in the history of the country.

SB1718 Act, for example, bans business owners from employing migrants with no papers in order, and otherwise employers could face heavy penalties for employing “unauthorized aliens”.

Under this measure, anyone who transports someone who entered the country illegally will also face up to five years in prison or a $5,000 fine per person.

Quoted by CNN, Neza Xiuhtecutli, member of the Florida Farmworkers Association, warned that some immigrants are deeply concerned about being left more vulnerable and exposed to exploitation.

Other legislation that went into effect on July 1 was the HB 543 that allows the use of firearms when the country is experiencing a firearms crisis.

This law does not require special permission to carry guns concealed in public places, even though it sets forth certain restrictions.

If he becomes president, DeSantis vowed to move forward with the border wall, put an end to birthright citizenship, and will execute massive deportations of undocumented immigrants.

What DeSantis is presently proposing is similar to Trump’s 2016 agenda and for some critics the danger next year is not in Trump who wants to be re-elected, but that a smarter Trumpist will prevail.

Translated by Amilkal Labañino / CubaSí Translation Staff