In July 2023, Florida implemented SB1718, a law mandating businesses with 25 or more employees to utilize the E-Verify system to check the immigration status of new hires. This decision was part of a broader strategy to curb the presence of undocumented workers in the state. Critics, particularly from sectors like agriculture, construction, and hospitality, argued that this requirement would impose significant burdens on small businesses already struggling to find labor, potentially leading to widespread labor shortages and threatening Florida’s economic stability. However, contrary to these fears, Florida’s economy has shown remarkable resilience and continued growth. In 2023, the state’s gross domestic product surged by 9.2%, ranking it first in the nation. The first two quarters of 2024 also demonstrated solid performance, defying predictions that such labor regulations would harm the overall economy.
The apparent success of Florida’s SB1718 may serve as a blueprint for immigration policies under a possible new Trump administration. During his campaign, Trump articulated a vision for immigration reform that surpassed Florida’s existing measures, but his past negotiating style suggests he might moderate these policies in practice. Key appointments from Florida, including the anticipated Border Czar, Tom Homan, hint at a leaner approach to enforcement, focusing on more targeted deportations rather than broad sweeps. This approach could be informed by Florida’s experience, which may offer a framework for how the Trump administration could impose immigration regulations without destabilizing small businesses across the nation.
Critics of SB1718 express concerns primarily regarding its applicability; the law only affects businesses with 25 or more employees, which excludes approximately 96% of small businesses that have ten or fewer employees. Moreover, the law only requires verification of new hires, rather than current employees, thereby easing the burdens on many businesses, particularly smaller ones. As a result, many employers have not experienced significant disruptions. This perspective is illuminated by comments from stakeholders such as Brittany Sakata from the American Staffing Association, who noted that compliance with the E-Verify system has been relatively smooth for staffing firms that are accustomed to thorough hiring processes.
In Florida’s small business landscape, the initial worries about E-Verify’s implementation were largely unfounded. Local business owners like Chris Gordon, the proprietor of a garden center, reported little if any impact from the law, stating that familiarity with E-Verify from prior state contracts helped ease the transition. Similarly, Hank Scott, who runs a large farm, emphasized that he historically relies on the H-2A program for temporary agricultural workers, paving the way for consistent staffing without being affected by the E-Verify mandate. Many in the agricultural sector echo Scott’s opinion that fears of mass deportations stemming from stricter immigration policies are exaggerated, arguing that such practices are essential for keeping business operations viable.
Meanwhile, agricultural advocacy groups are proactively lobbying for the expansion of the H-2A program to further ensure a reliable labor force. This is supported by recent trends showing a significant increase in H-2A visa usage among U.S. farms, with a growth of over 50% from 2018 to 2023. Given Trump’s history of utilizing temporary workers in his own businesses, this trend illustrates a complex relationship between immigration policy and labor market needs. Experts suggest that the agricultural community should leverage their collective voices to protect their interests as immigration reform discussions unfold at the federal level.
The future implications of immigration reform resonate deeply with small businesses in Florida and across the nation. Natalie Madeira Cofield, former Small Business Administration official, advises local business owners to proactively assess their labor strategies in light of the uncertain policies they may face under the new administration. Small businesses might find themselves shouldering the brunt of enforcement if regulations are implemented without consideration for their operational realities. The looming question remains: how will the Trump administration navigate its promises on immigration, and what precautions can businesses take to mitigate potential upheavals resulting from stricter enforcement? Engaging with lawmakers and developing contingency plans are essential steps for maintaining stability in an uncertain legislative environment.
