The Mexican government has rejected SB 1718, a new law that targets undocumented immigrants and those who aid them, which recently came into effect in Florida.
In a statement, the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) stated that SB 1718 would impact the human rights of thousands of Mexican individuals, including children, and create a hostile environment that may lead to hate crimes against the immigrant community.
The SRE emphasized that this measure fails to recognize immigrants’ valuable contributions to Florida’s economy, society, and culture.
Through its consulates in Miami and Orlando, the Mexican government believes that criminalization is not appropriate for addressing undocumented immigration.
It also highlighted the significance of transnational labor markets and the strong economic and tourist ties between Mexico and Florida, cautioning against measures driven by xenophobia and white nationalism.
Implementing SB 1718 will affect the bilateral relationship between Mexico and the United States, as both countries have worked together to foster tolerance, security, and respect, which this law undermines.
The SRE assured that it would utilize all available resources to defend the rights and dignity of Mexican nationals in Florida.
They will reinforce their efforts to provide assistance, consular protection, and legal advice to the Mexican community, regardless of their immigration status.
Additionally, Mexico and human rights organizations will document any violations of Mexicans’ rights in Florida and provide migrants with relevant information regarding the new law.
SB 1718 came into effect amidst fear and protests, prompting pro-immigrant organizations to convene the Mexico, Central, and South America Migration Convention in Miami.
The convention aims to develop a strategic plan to counter SB 1718 and the policies of Governor Ron DeSantis.
The new law, part of a package of over 200 laws passed by the Florida Congress this year, mandates that companies with 25 or more employees use an official program to verify the immigration status of each worker, under penalty of fines and license revocation.
Additionally, hospitals accepting public health insurance (Medicaid) must inquire and record the legal residency status of patients.
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