Debate Over Jacksonville’s Proposed Ordinance on Undocumented Immigrants

Jacksonville City Council members debating a new immigration ordinance

News Summary

Jacksonville is seeing a heated debate regarding Ordinance 025-0138, introduced by Councilman Rory Diamond, aimed at restricting city funding for services to undocumented immigrants. The ordinance has faced backlash from Councilman Matt Carlucci, who argues it could harm vulnerable populations, particularly children. While an amended version has been approved by the Finance Committee, concerns remain about its implications on local services and community values. A vote is scheduled for June 10 as discussions continue among council members and the public.

Jacksonville is facing a contentious debate over a proposed ordinance that seeks to restrict city funding for services to undocumented immigrants. Introduced by Councilman Rory Diamond, Ordinance 025-0138 aims to ensure that taxpayer dollars are not utilized to support individuals living illegally in the country. The Jacksonville City Council is scheduled to vote on this ordinance on June 10.

Councilman Matt Carlucci has publicly denounced the bill, calling it “flawed and mean-spirited,” and asserted that it does not align with the core values of the Jacksonville community. He emphasized that the legislation could cause significant harm, particularly to undocumented children, underscoring the moral implications of potentially withholding assistance from vulnerable populations.

The bill, which is seen as a continuation of the Jacksonville Illegal Immigration Enforcement Act passed earlier in March, also monitors the use of city, state, and federal grants that provide support to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, as well as immigrant assistance programs. In a meeting of the Rules Committee, Councilman Diamond justified the ordinance by arguing that it is inappropriate for taxpayers to subsidize services for undocumented individuals.

In a move towards compromise, the Jacksonville Finance Committee has approved an amended version of the ordinance, introducing exceptions for certain groups. These amendments exempt Shands Jacksonville Medical Center (UF Health), sex trafficking victims, and grant a one-year exemption for Kids Hope Alliance, a nonprofit supporting children’s welfare. Despite these revisions, Carlucci continues to oppose the legislation, citing concerns regarding unintended consequences that could arise from its strict application.

Carlucci has implored fellow council members to consider the long-term repercussions of the bill prior to the impending vote. He has expressed particular concern for the impact it may have on children, indicating that he finds it indefensible to deny assistance to undocumented minors.

If the ordinance is approved, it will require the Mayor of Jacksonville, Donna Deegan, to submit a report to the Finance Committee by June 30. Deegan’s representative clarified her stance, emphasizing that Jacksonville has never been designated a sanctuary city and that the administration remains committed to enforcing existing laws.

The proposal has generated significant discussion among city council members, with many voicing their objections. Critics, including Councilman Jimmy Peluso, have suggested a total withdrawal of the bill, labeling it as excessively punitive and unnecessary. Supporters of the ordinance, however, argue that undocumented immigrants place an undue economic strain on city-funded services, thus necessitating the proposed restrictions.

Furthermore, the ordinance stipulates that nonprofits receiving financial support from the city must not knowingly provide services to undocumented persons. Council members acknowledged that further amendments may be required to clarify how the bill would affect local healthcare facilities and organizations dedicated to caring for residents.

It is essential to note that the Duval County school district does not gather data on the immigration status of its students, adhering to federal and state mandates. This has raised concerns among local service providers, including the Kids Hope Alliance, as verifying the immigration status of children requiring assistance could pose an additional burden on these organizations. The Kids Hope Alliance helps thousands of local children by offering educational and social support services.

The debate surrounding Ordinance 025-0138 illustrates the complexities of immigration policy at the local level and the challenges posed when balancing community values with fiscal responsibility. As the Jacksonville City Council prepares for the upcoming vote, the discussions continue to evoke strong feelings and highlight the divergent views on this pressing social issue.