Florida Governor Gains Broader Powers to Designate Domestic Terrorists
Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation allowing state officials to designate domestic terrorist organizations after a federal court blocked his attempt to label a Muslim civil rights group.
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — Governor Ron DeSantis has signed legislation granting state officials expanded authority to designate domestic terrorist organizations, following a federal court’s rejection of his earlier attempt to label a Muslim civil rights group as terrorists.
The new law allows DeSantis, along with the head of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the chief financial officer, the commissioner of agriculture, and the attorney general, to designate individuals or organizations as domestic terrorists. The officials can also sanction anyone who provides resources or material support to those they label as terrorists.
The legislation comes after DeSantis designated the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) as a terrorist organization in December 2025. “We’ll do millions for public safety. Millions for education. But never one red cent for jihad,” DeSantis said at the time.
Federal Court Blocks Initial Order
A federal judge in Tallahassee blocked the governor’s December order against CAIR, ruling that the organization is a civil rights group. The court cited constitutional concerns about the suppression of speech in its decision.
CAIR describes itself as a civil rights organization focused on protecting the rights of Muslim Americans. The group has faced criticism from some officials who view its activities as problematic.
Expanded Authority Under New Law
The newly signed legislation provides state officials with broad discretionary power to make terrorist designations. Unlike the previous executive action that targeted a specific organization, the law establishes an ongoing framework for such designations.
Under the statute, the five-member panel of state officials can act “anywhere, anytime, for any obscure, even irrational, reason,” according to the source material describing the law’s scope.
The law also empowers officials to impose sanctions on individuals or entities that provide material support to designated organizations. This includes financial assistance, resources, or other forms of aid.
Broader Implications for Organizations
The legislation could potentially affect various organizations beyond CAIR. DeSantis has previously expressed concerns about Antifa activities, warning against groups that engage in certain types of protest activities.
The governor has maintained that the state’s approach is necessary for public safety. His administration argues that Florida faces threats from various domestic groups that require aggressive state intervention.
Civil rights advocates have raised concerns about the potential for abuse under the new law. They argue that the broad authority granted to state officials could be used to suppress legitimate political dissent and civil rights activities.
The legislation represents a significant expansion of state authority over designating domestic threats, giving Florida officials powers that traditionally rest with federal agencies. The law’s implementation will likely face continued legal challenges from affected organizations and civil liberties groups.
