El Escudo: Immigrant Rights and Resources Toolkit
INTRODUCTION
In uncertain times, when immigration policies and personal security can create anxiety, it is essential to know your rights and how to assert them. El Escudo is designed to empower immigrant families by providing the necessary information to defend their rights in various situations, from interactions with authorities to accessing medical services, the workplace, and educational systems. This resource is intended to offer a path toward security, ensuring that individuals know they have the right to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their immigration status.
In this time of insecurity, remember not to panic, that you are not alone; there are allies and resources available to support you in defending your rights and protecting your well-being.
All persons regardless of immigration status have certain basic rights.
- You have the right to remain silent.
- You have the right to speak with an attorney.
- You have the right to protections against discrimination.
- If law enforcement/ICE shows up at your house, DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR. Ask them to slide the warrant under the door. It has to be signed by a judge and have your name and address.
- Never carry false documentation with you (it is a crime).
- If you are stopped or detained, state your name and date of birth.
- DO NOT sign anything! Talk to an attorney first.
For more information on immigration issues and resources from LULAC National, please click here. Our national organization provides comprehensive updates on policy changes, rights education, and advocacy efforts that affect Hispanic communities across the United States.
- Know Your Rights
- Your Rights at Home
- Your Rights in Public Spaces
- Your Rights in Your Car
- Your Rights in Your Place of Work
- Your Right at School and/or University
- Your Rights at the Airport
- Your Rights as a Patient
- Your Rights in Detention Centers
- Your Rights in Police Custody/Jail
- Make Sure to Develop a Safety Plan
- Checklist
- Guardianship Information
- Commentary on Notary Publics
- Stand in Solidarity
Print these know-your-rights cards and carry them in your wallet or purse for quick reference.
Immigration Updates & Resources for Florida Communities
At LULAC Florida, we are committed to keeping our community informed about important immigration developments, local and state legislation, and available resources.
This page is designed to:
- Provide accurate, up-to-date immigration news relevant to Florida.
- Share community resources that support immigrant families.
- Equip individuals with knowledge about their rights and opportunities.
- Foster a strong, informed, and resilient community.
This page is designed to help you understand new policies, finding available legal and support services resources out in our community.
1. Immigration Bills Passed into Law (2023–2025)
SB 1718 – Immigration Enforcement Law (2023)
Signed into law in 2023.
Key Highlights:
- Requires hospitals that accept Medicaid to collect and report patients’ immigration status.
- Criminalizes transporting undocumented individuals into Florida.
- Invalidates certain out-of-state driver’s licenses issued to undocumented immigrants.
- Imposes E-Verify requirements for employers.
- Funds transportation of migrants out of Florida.
HB 1451 – Workforce Eligibility Verification (2024)
Passed and signed into law in 2024.
Key Highlights:
- Strengthens the use of E-Verify for employment eligibility.
- Increases penalties and enforcement actions against businesses hiring undocumented workers.
- Implements more rigorous state audits of business hiring practices.
SB 2-B – Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy (TRUMP) Act (2025)
2. Immigration Bills Passed into Law (2025)
SB 2-B – Tackling and Reforming Unlawful Migration Policy (TRUMP) Act
Enacted in early 2025, this law designates the Commissioner of Agriculture as Florida’s Chief Immigration Officer. It establishes the Office of State Immigration Enforcement and creates a grant program to support local law enforcement agencies in coordinating with federal immigration authorities.
SB 2-C – Immigration Enforcement Enhancements
Signed into law in February 2025, this legislation introduces stricter penalties for undocumented immigrants, including reclassification of certain felonies and mandatory minimum prison terms. It also addresses driver’s license requirements and enforcement of immigration detainers.
SB 4-C – Immigration Penalties and Restrictions
Also enacted in February 2025, SB 4-C imposes severe penalties for undocumented immigrants, including mandatory minimum sentences for illegal reentry offenses. It criminalizes unauthorized entry into Florida and enhances penalties for crimes committed by undocumented individuals.
3. Immigration Bills Currently in Committee (2025 Session)
HB 1234 – Community Safety and Family Protection Act
Proposed legislation aiming to increase cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE. It includes mandates for public schools to report on undocumented students, raising constitutional concerns.
SB 432 – Expanded ID Access for Minors
This bill seeks to allow undocumented minors, including DACA recipients, to apply for limited Florida state ID cards, facilitating access to education and healthcare services.
4. National-Level Changes Impacting Florida
DHS Parole Programs (2024-2025): Expanded parole processes for Venezuelans, Haitians, Cubans, and Nicaraguans.
Asylum Process Reforms: Implementation of faster timelines for credible fear interviews and removal proceedings, directly affecting immigrants in Florida detention centers.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is intended for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. We encourage you to utilize the resources available in the community for further assistance.
Note: This information is current as of April 27, 2025. For the most recent updates, please refer to official Florida legislative resources or contact local immigration advocacy organizations.