A federal judge late Thursday issued an order regarding Florida's "Alligator Alcatraz" immigrationa holding center to be closed in 60 days.
Individuals currently residing at the facility need to be relocated within the specified period, along with generators, barriers, and additional building supplies.
Judge Kathleen M. Williams from the Miami Federal District Court criticized the federal and state authorities for failing to take the facility into account.environmental impacts.
Williams stated that the governments breached a federal law requiring an environmental assessment prior to any significant federal construction project. She further mentioned that it harms the nearby wetlands and communities that depend on the Everglades for their water source.
She stated, 'The project causes lasting damage through the loss of habitat and higher death rates among endangered species in the region.'
The judge partially approved a temporary restraining order sought by environmental groups and the local Miccosukee Tribe.
The decision is temporary, and the state is anticipated to request a suspension of the ruling. The Trump administration contended that theNational Environmental Policy Actdid not apply as the facility contains federal immigration detainees and is managed by the state.
Gov. Ron DeSantisThe administration of (R-FL) stated that part of its ability to run the center was derived from the federal government granting the state authority over immigration enforcement.
Williams determined that since the center is influenced by federal funding, regulations, and guidance, it is also subject to federal environmental laws. She stated that the court will "follow the well-established principle: If it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, and looks like a duck, then it's a duck."
Dozens of Democrats request details from the DHS regarding 'Alligator Alcatraz'
DeSantis expressed doubt that Williams would side with them. "It's quite evident we're before a judge who isn't going to offer us a fair chance on this," he stated on Tuesday.
Numerous additional federal immigration camps have emerged throughout the country as the Trump administration works to accommodate its large-scale deportation plan.