Florida is set to receive a substantial boost in federal immigration funding as state and federal leaders announced a significant agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) through the 287(g) program. Governor Ron DeSantis, along with ICE Deputy Director Madison D. Sheahan and other officials, highlighted the importance of this funding for law enforcement and immigration efforts in the state.
The funds, part of the Trump administration’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill,’ will provide over $28 million to the state of Florida, with an additional $10 million directed to local law enforcement. This marks a historic agreement that underscores the strong partnership between the state and federal agencies. According to ICE, the funding will support transportation and equipment for local and state agencies, with an emphasis on enhancing immigration enforcement capabilities.
DeSantis expressed confidence in the partnership, noting that Florida has established a benchmark for cooperation with ICE, with over 4,700 officers actively involved in immigration enforcement. The state has also taken proactive steps by creating a full-time immigration enforcement unit within the Highway Patrol, a first-of-its-kind initiative at the state level. This unit is expected to significantly bolster the state’s ability to address immigration-related crime and ensure border security.
DeSantis issued a strong warning against any attempts to threaten or attack ICE agents within Florida, stating, ‘Florida is not Portland.’ He emphasized that the state would take swift and severe action against anyone who dared to harm ICE personnel. This statement comes in the wake of a recent shooting at an ICE facility in Dallas, where a suspect allegedly opened fire on officers, resulting in one death and two injuries. The FBI has classified the incident as a ‘targeted attack’ on the agency, highlighting the growing concerns over the safety of immigration enforcement officers.
The $1.7 billion funding allocation is a key component of the Trump administration’s strategy to strengthen immigration enforcement across the country. The 287(g) initiative allows state and local officers to assist in immigration enforcement, a program that Florida has embraced with a record number of agreements. As the state continues to receive these resources, it is expected that the collaboration will lead to enhanced security measures and improved efficiency in managing immigration-related issues.
With the recent developments and the ongoing emphasis on national security, the partnership between Florida and ICE is seen as a critical step in addressing the challenges faced by immigration enforcement. The state’s proactive measures and the administration’s support signal a continued commitment to fortifying border security and ensuring the safety of both officers and the public.