FLORIDA – Florida’s House is advancing two controversial measures—one that would require all employers to verify new hires’ immigration status through E-Verify, and another that would loosen restrictions on teenage labor.
The E-Verify expansion, House Bill 955, was approved by the House Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee in a 12-4 vote.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Berny Jacques (R-Seminole), would broaden the current 2023 law that mandates only businesses with 25 or more employees use the federal system to confirm new workers’ legal status.
Jacques argued the proposal enforces federal law and ensures undocumented workers aren’t filling Florida jobs.
Businesses found non-compliant three times within two years could face daily fines of $1,000 until they rectify the issue.
Democrats pushed back, warning the measure could disrupt industries like agriculture, tourism, and health care, which heavily rely on immigrant labor.
Rep. Anna Eskamani (D-Orlando) also criticized rhetoric around replacing immigrant labor with teenagers.
On that note, the committee also advanced HB 1225, a bill that would lift work-hour restrictions on 16- and 17-year-olds, allowing them to work more than eight hours on school days and over 30 hours during school weeks.
It also removes labor limits for 14- and 15-year-olds who are homeschooled or in virtual school.
Supporters say the bill provides needed workforce flexibility, while critics warn it could open the door to exploitation.
Both bills still require approval from additional committees before reaching a full House or Senate vote.