Texas and Florida have recently made a controversial decision regarding migrants within their borders. Between the two states, hundreds of immigrants have been forcibly relocated. Keep reading for more information.
Removal
It is important to note that immigration is under federal jurisdiction which means enforcement of immigration law is the responsibility of federal agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an order to remove 50 migrants from the state by transporting them via plan and bus to Martha’s Vineyard. The small island was not prepared for their arrival but rallied together to provide food and shelter before offering the migrants the option to relocate to a larger city.
Other migrant groups have been sent to D.C., New York City, and other major sanctuary cities. Political analysts believe the move was purely political posturing, but it does raise the question, are states allowed to move migrants to another state?
State Jurisdiction
States may work with federal agencies but there are boundaries for how much power they can exercise over migrants. DeSantis is facing possible allegations of human trafficking for sending migrants across state lines. However, a trial has yet to be scheduled.
There are lawyers gathering a class action suit against the governors on behalf of the migrants. It’s also important to note that the migrants transported from Florida were primarily refugees from Venezuela. This means that they were awaiting their court hearings. If they cannot attend their court hearing, they may be removed from the country.
Takeaway
There are few incidents where states have taken immigration matters into their own hands and relocated migrants without consulting federal agencies. This case raises many questions about jurisdictions, migrant rights, the legality of relocation and more.
If you need legal counsel regarding your immigration case, contact Sintsirmas & Mueller Co. L.P.A.
