Summary
A federal appeals court decided that Florida does not need to close its Alligator Alcatraz immigration facility, temporarily halting a previous judge's order to dismantle it. The facility had been challenged by environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe over claims it violated environmental laws. The court's latest decision leaves the facility open while further legal reviews occur.
Key Facts
- The appeals court ruled against dismantling Florida's Alligator Alcatraz facility, pausing a previous judge's order.
- The site, which is used to detain immigrants, was previously an airstrip in the Everglades.
- Environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe sued, claiming it violated the National Environmental Policy Act.
- A U.S. District Judge had initially ruled in favor of the environmental groups.
- Florida and federal officials argued the facility had no environmental impact as it was built on an existing airstrip.
- The appeals court criticized the previous judge's decision to dismantle the facility as excessive.
- The legal process will continue, as Thursday’s ruling only temporarily halts the order to dismantle the facility.
