A federal judge halted construction at the "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration detention center in Florida while environmental law violations are debated. The facility can operate, but no new construction is allowed for two weeks. Environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe seek to halt operations, citing threats to wetlands and protected species.
The core argument centers on the National Environmental Policy Act, which requires environmental impact assessments for major projects. The state claims the law doesn't apply because Florida built the facility. Plaintiffs argue it's a joint federal-state venture due to its immigration enforcement purpose.
This lawsuit is one of two. The second alleges constitutional rights violations for detainees. Attorneys for federal and state agencies seek to dismiss the first lawsuit, claiming it was filed in the wrong jurisdiction. Meanwhile, the state appears to be planning a second detention center in north Florida.
6 Comments
Muchacha
This is a travesty. Putting people in prison, next to a sensitive ecosystem? No.
Bella Ciao
Lawsuits are starting to pile up. It shows the depth of this scandal.
Michelangelo
It is vital they can start operating, the cases are nothing burger. Justice will prevail.
Coccinella
Two weeks is enough time to solve these problems. The center should be allowed to support the economy in the meantime.
Matzomaster
Imagine being detained in such a place, it's inhumane. They need to listen to the tribe and environmentalists.
Rotfront
The fact that they are even considering a second facility is sickening. They need to face justice.