Florida Proposes Crackdown on Illegal Immigration

New plan would penalize lawmakers and judges over crimes by undocumented immigrants

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Florida leaders have outlined a new plan aimed at tightening immigration enforcement in the state, including proposals that would penalize lawmakers and judges if undocumented immigrants in their districts commit violent crimes. The proposal would also allow for the removal of judges who release undocumented immigrants who later commit serious offenses, target employers of undocumented workers, and automatically assign fault to undocumented drivers in car crashes.

Why it matters

The proposed crackdown on illegal immigration in Florida is part of a broader national debate over immigration policy and enforcement. Supporters argue it will reduce costs and improve public safety, while critics say the approach is too broad and should focus on deporting violent criminals while easing paths to citizenship for others.

The details

The plan, outlined by Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, would create a "blueprint" for other states to follow in what Ingoglia described as one of the nation's boldest crackdowns on illegal immigration. The legislation would allow for the removal of judges who release undocumented immigrants who later commit serious offenses, target employers of undocumented workers, and automatically assign fault to undocumented drivers in car crashes.

  • The proposal was outlined by Florida leaders on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Blaise Ingoglia

Florida Chief Financial Officer who outlined the new immigration enforcement plan.

Jay Collins

Florida Lieutenant Governor who said the state cannot afford inaction on illegal immigration.

Anna Eskamani

Democratic Representative from Orlando who criticized the state's approach as too broad, arguing the focus should be on deporting violent criminals while easing paths to citizenship for others.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The bill is currently moving through the Florida legislature.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.