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The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) transferred $608 million to the state of Florida on September 30, one day before the partial shutdown of the federal government.
This substantial amount of dollars is intended to cover operating expenses for the immigration detention centers known as Alligator Alcatraz and Deportation Depot, as confirmed by the Executive Office of Governor Ron DeSantis.
The governor publicly celebrated the transfer through his account on X: “Another false narrative crumbles. I always said we would be reimbursed.” He later emphasized that the reimbursement doesn't change the state nature of the project.
"It remains state property and a state mission," DeSantis said.
Controversial facilities on protected lands
Alligator Alcatraz was built on the abandoned runways of the Dade-Collier airport, within the protected area of Big Cypress National Preserve, in Collier County.
On its part, Deportation Depot operates in the closed facilities of the Baker Correctional Institution. The installation cost of the former exceeded 250 million dollars in less than a month, and an annual operating expense of 450 million is projected.
According to state documents and statements from the Deputy Director of ICE, Madison Sheahan, the funds come from allocations originally intended for the federal Shelter and Services program, which provided assistance to local governments and organizations that supported migrants.
Reactions and demands regarding environmental impact
The federal disbursement has rekindled a lawsuit against the state of Florida and the federal government, filed by organizations such as Friends of the Everglades, the Center for Biological Diversity, and the Miccosukee tribe. The plaintiffs argue that the required environmental study was not conducted to utilize land in the Everglades.
"The funding from FEMA confirms that this is a federal project that must comply with federal environmental laws," stated Elise Bennett, Florida Director of the Center for Biological Diversity.
In August, a federal judge temporarily halted the construction. However, an appeals court allowed it to resume in September, ruling that Florida had not received federal funds. With the recent transfer, environmental groups argue that the situation changes dramatically.
“The granting of FEMA funds is evidence that Alligator Alcatraz must be halted to comply with basic environmental protections,” stated Eve Samples, executive director of Friends of the Everglades.
This transfer adds to the state's efforts to strengthen the immigration policy of the Donald Trump administration.
This week, Florida sheriffs requested an additional 250 million dollars in state funding to acquire technology, expand detention capacity, and provide bonuses to agents involved in immigration operations.
These actions are being carried out in coordination with the government of President Trump and under the framework of the 287(g) program, which allows local authorities to perform federal immigration functions.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Funding and Controversy of Immigration Detention Centers in Florida
How much money has Florida received for immigration detention centers?
Florida has received 608 million dollars from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to cover operational costs of immigrant detention centers, such as "Alligator Alcatraz" and "Deportation Depot." These funds were transferred one day before the partial shutdown of the federal government.
Why is the "Alligator Alcatraz" detention center in Florida controversial?
The "Alligator Alcatraz" center is controversial due to its location in a protected area of the Everglades and the lack of an environmental review prior to its construction. Additionally, it faces lawsuits over unsanitary conditions and restrictions on detainees' access to legal assistance. It has also been criticized by environmental organizations and the Miccosukee tribe for its negative impact on the ecosystem.
What is the impact of the legal actions on the "Alligator Alcatraz" center?
Legal actions have resulted in a temporary closure order issued by a federal judge, due to the center being built in violation of environmental laws. This has led to an ongoing appeals and litigation process, which could impact the center's continued operation and the use of federal funds for its functioning.
What has Governor Ron DeSantis declared about the future of the "Alligator Alcatraz" center?
The governor Ron DeSantis has defended the continuation of operations at "Alligator Alcatraz," stating that the state will continue to prioritize the detention and deportation of immigrants as part of a state effort complementing that of the federal government. He has vowed to resist judicial decisions aimed at closing the center.
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