News Summary
The Jacksonville City Council has passed an ordinance to limit funding for services to undocumented immigrants, resulting in an 11-7 vote. This decision highlights significant divisions within the council concerning immigration policy. The ordinance prohibits city grants to organizations aiding undocumented individuals, while allowing exemptions for vulnerable groups. Proponents argue it’s about accountability, but opponents express concerns about its impacts on immigrant communities. Mayor Donna Deegan has not yet indicated whether she will sign the legislation, which also requires reporting on undocumented immigrants in city-funded housing.
Jacksonville – The Jacksonville City Council has passed a controversial ordinance aimed at limiting city funds for services to undocumented immigrants, with the vote tallying 11 in favor and 7 against. The decision comes after extensive debates lasting several hours, showcasing the strong divisions within the council regarding immigration policy.
The ordinance specifically prohibits city grant dollars from being utilized by organizations that knowingly provide services to undocumented immigrants. Furthermore, it mandates that Mayor Donna Deegan submits a comprehensive report on federal spending and compliance with anti-discrimination laws by June 30, 2025. These provisions aim to address compliance with federal regulations while maintaining accountability in the usage of taxpayer dollars.
During the discussions, five last-minute amendments were added to the bill, which introduced critical exemptions. These exceptions allow for services to continue for certain vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, survivors of domestic violence, and active-duty military families. Advocates of the measure argue that these exemptions address humanitarian concerns while still prioritizing legal immigration processes.
Councilmember Rory Diamond, who introduced the ordinance, described it as a means to ensure accountability and proper usage of city funds, stating that it is not aimed at discriminating against immigrants but rather promoting adherence to immigration laws. Supporters of the ordinance maintain that it aligns with protecting taxpayer money and ensuring that public funds are utilized in accordance with federal law.
On the other hand, opponents of the ordinance voiced serious concerns about its potential repercussions. Councilmember Matt Carlucci and other critics articulated that the bill could send a negative message and cause emotional harm to immigrant communities, particularly affecting human dignity and community welfare. This apprehension was echoed amongst community members who conducted protests to highlight the adverse impact the law could have on immigrants, especially those in crisis situations.
As the bill awaits the decision from Mayor Donna Deegan, she has not publicly disclosed whether she intends to sign, veto, or allow it to become law automatically without her signature. The deadline for her to make this decision is 10 days after receiving the legislation—potentially by June 24, 2023.
In addition to restricting funding, the ordinance obliges the Mayor’s office to report on the number of undocumented immigrants residing in city-funded housing. It also calls for the disclosure of data related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and federal grants aimed at addressing the needs of various populations.
Supporters of the ordinance assert that these measures are necessary to maintain order and compliance in the city’s immigration policies. However, critics argue that its enforcement could deter nonprofit organizations from providing essential services, leading to a chilling effect on support for vulnerable populations and creating an atmosphere of fear within immigrant communities, particularly when it comes to seeking help in emergencies, such as cases of domestic violence.
Activists have further responded by urging a boycott of businesses owned by council members who supported the ordinance as a way to signal their disapproval of the decision. The newly implemented ordinance continues to intensify existing tensions within the Jacksonville community regarding immigration policies and the treatment of those in need, reflecting broader national debates over immigration and local governance.
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Additional Resources
- First Coast News: Jacksonville City Council Passes Immigration Ordinance
- Action News Jax: Critics Blast Jacksonville’s New Limits
- News 4 Jax: City Council Passes Heavily Opposed Bill
- Florida Politics: Jacksonville City Council Cracks Down on City Funding
- Fox 35 Orlando: Florida City Criminalizes Undocumented Immigration
- Wikipedia: Immigration Policy
- Google Search: Jacksonville Immigration Ordinance 2025
- Google Scholar: Immigration Law Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Immigration Law
- Google News: Jacksonville City Council Immigration
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
