Several new laws go into effect today in Florida

The new texting while driving law has grabbed plenty of headlines across Florida ahead of it going into effect, but there are several other new laws being implemented Monday across the state.

Among those include a new law regarding sanctuary cities that could have an impact on thousands of immigrants. The law says local governments must honor ICE detainers for those suspected of being here illegally and arrested or convicted of a crime.

The state is expanding school vouchers as up to 18,000 students will now have the opportunity to enroll in a $130 Million scholarship called the Family Empowerment Scholarship. Supporters say the program gives parents more choices if their child is at a failing school, while critics say it will strip away money from under-funded public schools.

Two of the laws that begin today still need approval from the federal government. One of them creates an agricultural hemp program that could become a multi-billion-dollar industry in the state. Hemp is used for a wide range of products from ropes and clothing to building materials and animal feed. The USDA still needs to approve program submissions. The other measure would give you access to cheaper prescription drugs by importing them from Canada and other unspecified countries. That plan still needs to be approved by The Department of Health and Human Services.

Among other new laws of note is a measure that will allow the State Attorney General to collect information from the state's prescription drug database as Florida builds its case against drug makers and pharmacies they say contributed to the opiod epidemic. Meanwhile another one will allow you to grow vegetables in your front yard without getting a fine from a local government.