Florida Designates Over 90 Organizations as Terrorist Groups Under New State Law
Governor Ron DeSantis and Florida's Cabinet voted to designate more than 90 groups as terrorist organizations under a new law that took effect in July, including CAIR, the Muslim Brotherhood, and Antifa alongside foreign organizations already recognized by the U.S. government. The designations were made with minimal public testimony, and legal challenges have already been filed, with the ACLU seeking a preliminary injunction on behalf of CAIR-Florida claiming violations of First Amendment and due process rights. The action stems from HB 1471, which critics argue lacks evidence of specific illegal violent acts by the designated groups.
Florida's new law grants the state government independent authority to classify organizations as terrorist entities, bypassing the federal designation process typically handled by the U.S. State Department. The Cabinet's action designates domestic groups alongside already-recognized foreign entities like cartels and government military forces. The procedure occurred with minimal deliberation and no public participation, moving directly to a binding vote on the expansive list.
Legal challenges have been filed immediately, with civil rights organizations arguing the designations lack evidence of violent criminal conduct by the targeted groups. The ACLU plans to request emergency court intervention to prevent enforcement, citing constitutional protections for free speech and fair process under the 14th Amendment.
The designations could significantly affect the daily operations and legal standing of listed organizations in Florida, potentially restricting fundraising, limiting speech protections, and creating legal exposure for members or supporters. The outcome may depend on whether courts determine the law provides adequate safeguards for distinguishing between violent actors and protected advocacy. The case could influence whether states can unilaterally create terrorist designations independent of federal authorities, with implications for both civil liberties and security policy nationwide.