July 1, 2025

Mayor Deegan Vetoes Immigration Ordinance in Jacksonville

News Summary

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan has vetoed a controversial immigration ordinance aimed at preventing local organizations from receiving city grants unless they ensure that these funds do not go to unauthorized immigrants. The City Council’s attempt to override her veto fell just short of the required two-thirds majority. Mayor Deegan cited legal concerns and potential fear within the immigrant community as reasons for her veto, emphasizing that immigration policy should remain a federal concern. Proponents argue that the ordinance protects taxpayer funds.

Jacksonville – Mayor Donna Deegan has vetoed a contentious immigration ordinance that would have mandated local organizations to ensure that city grants do not go to unauthorized immigrants. The City Council’s attempt to override the veto fell short with an 8-7 vote, just shy of the two-thirds majority needed for reversal.

The ordinance, presented by Councilman Rory Diamond, had garnered enough support to pass initially, receiving an 11-7 vote from the council. If enacted, the legislation would have introduced measures aimed at increasing transparency in city funding and required a report on federal financial compliance to be submitted by June 30, 2025.

In her veto, Mayor Deegan cited legal risks and concerns regarding local government overreach in immigration matters, which she stated is inherently a federal issue. She expressed worries that the ordinance would instill fear among Jacksonville’s immigrant community and suggested that the legislation was politically charged rather than focused on community welfare.

Proponents of the ordinance defended its provisions, which included exemptions for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, survivors of domestic violence, and military families. Supporters, including Councilman Diamond, argued that the veto could pave the way for Jacksonville to become a “sanctuary city,” potentially undermining local immigration controls.

In response to fears stirred by the ordinance, Mayor Deegan reassured the public that Jacksonville would continue to comply with both state and federal laws, asserting that the city “cannot and will not become a sanctuary city.” Furthermore, she pointed out that the bill lacked empirical evidence demonstrating misuse of taxpayer funds regarding undocumented residents in Jacksonville.

Councilman Jimmy Peluso echoed Mayor Deegan’s sentiments, supporting the veto while condemning the fear the legislation had instigated within the immigrant population. The mayor’s veto signifies a firm stance against the proposed measure, which she characterized as an example of political theater that distracts from genuine city issues.

This isn’t the first time Mayor Deegan has navigated the immigration policy landscape in Jacksonville. Previously, she allowed a related immigration bill to pass without her signature, which made illegal immigration a local offense. However, the current veto reflects a shift in her approach, favoring a more cautious stance on immigration-related legislation.

Local discussions surrounding immigration are expected to continue, with increasing criticism aimed at the City Council’s prioritization of such issues over other pressing matters affecting Jacksonville, like housing and economic development. The repeated efforts by Councilman Diamond regarding immigration policy suggest a political agenda that may not align with the immediate needs of Jacksonville’s residents.

In conclusion, Mayor Deegan’s veto of the immigration ordinance and the resulting council vote highlight a significant divide in local governance priorities. The mayor’s call for the City Council to redirect its focus toward critical issues such as economic growth and community welfare reflects a desire for legislative efforts that serve the broader interests of all Jacksonville residents, rather than divisive immigration debates.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER

JACKSONVILLE STAFF 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.

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