Orlando’s mayor, Buddy Dyer, addressed recent concerns surrounding federal and state immigration laws, prompted by a letter from Florida’s attorney general, James Uthmeier. Despite this, Dyer remained silent on the future of the city’s “Trust Act.” This ordinance, which prevents city employees from inquiring about residents’ immigration status, was criticized after Uthmeier’s letter accused it of being illegal under a 2019 Florida law. Uthmeier, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis, labeled the policy a “sanctuary policy” and warned of potential legal consequences, including the possibility of Dyer’s removal from office.
In his response, Dyer affirmed the city’s commitment to federal and state laws, mentioning Orlando’s participation in the Memorandum of Agreement 287(g) Task Force Model with ICE. The mayor assured that both he and the Orlando Police Department (OPD) have no intention of violating any laws, stating that OPD officers are undergoing ICE training to assist as needed. However, Dyer’s letter did not mention the Trust Act, and there was no immediate response from the city regarding its status.
Uthmeier criticized the city’s policy of not seeking immigration status from crime victims, witnesses, or non-criminal traffic offenders, and of not tying city services to immigration status. The Trust Act, put in place in 2018, was intended to encourage crime reporting by reducing deportation fears. Commissioner Tony Ortiz, who spearheaded the policy, argued that it does not contravene state or federal law and emphasized its purpose: to foster communication and trust between immigrants and law enforcement.
The city’s recent agreement with ICE sparked debate, particularly among immigrant advocates who urged officials to reconsider this cooperation. Despite Dyer’s earlier disagreement with the law requiring such an agreement, he acknowledged its non-negotiable nature. Nonetheless, he reiterated his support for the Trust Act, maintaining that the policy ensures that immigration documentation is not requested during routine traffic stops.
The Evolving Landscape
The ongoing discussions about Orlando’s Trust Act highlight a broader national debate on immigration policies and local governance. For residents, this situation underscores the complexities of navigating the relationship between local policies and state or federal mandates. As the city balances compliance with higher-level laws and the preservation of community trust, the outcome could influence how similar policies are shaped in other regions.
For community members, particularly those in immigrant communities, the Trust Act represents a critical measure to ensure their safety and willingness to engage with law enforcement without fear of immigration repercussions. Changes to this policy could impact their daily lives, affecting their interactions with local authorities and access to city services. The resolution of this issue will be closely watched by cities nationwide facing similar challenges, as they seek to find a balance between legal obligations and community trust.