MIAMI — A federal judge is currently deliberating whether to halt the construction of a controversial immigration detention center located in the Florida Everglades, known for its challenging environmental conditions. The facility has drawn criticism for allegedly violating environmental laws designed to protect sensitive ecosystems.
Environmental organizations and the Miccosukee Tribe are urging U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams to approve a preliminary injunction to suspend both ongoing operations and additional construction. They argue that the center poses a threat to delicate wetlands that serve as habitats for endangered plant and animal species and could undermine extensive environmental restoration efforts valued at billions of dollars.
The lawsuit filed in Miami targets both federal and state authorities, representing one of two legal actions challenging the South Florida detention center, which began operations over a month ago on a remote airstrip owned by Miami-Dade County. Another lawsuit initiated by civil rights advocates claims that detainees are experiencing violations of their constitutional rights. The second suit alleges they have been denied access to legal representation, held without charges, and had their bond hearings canceled by a federal immigration court. A hearing on this case is slated for August 18.
Under a federal environmental statute established over five decades ago, federal agencies are obligated to assess the potential environmental impacts of constructing such a facility, consider strategies to mitigate those impacts, and comply with procedural guidelines, including soliciting public input. According to both the environmental groups and the Tribe, these procedural requirements have not been met.
The plaintiffs emphasize that the center, which currently houses hundreds of detainees, falls under federal jurisdiction since immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility. They argue that Florida state authorities lack the legal right to enforce federal immigration laws.
In response to the plaintiffs’ request, attorneys representing federal and state agencies have sought to have the injunction request dismissed or transferred, contending that the case was filed in the incorrect jurisdiction. They note that while the property is situated in Miami-Dade County, the facility is actually located in Collier County, which falls under a different jurisdiction.
As of now, Judge Williams has not made a decision regarding this jurisdictional challenge. The scrutiny surrounding the lawsuits coincides with reports that Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration is preparing to construct a second immigration detention center at a National Guard training facility in northern Florida. State records indicate at least one contract has already been awarded for what is referred to as the “North Detention Facility.”
This ongoing dispute highlights broader concerns about the intersection of environmental preservation and immigration policies, particularly in a region as ecologically sensitive as the Everglades.
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