Tampa, Florida — Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Wednesday that Florida officials have recommended designating CAIR Florida, the Muslim Brotherhood, and Antifa as terrorist organizations under a new state law that took effect the same day.
The law, HB 1471, allows the Florida Department of Law Enforcement commissioner to recommend domestic or foreign terrorist designations to the governor and Cabinet. If approved, designated groups could lose access to public funding, contracts, and other state support. Individuals who knowingly provide material support could also face penalties.
DeSantis said the designations are based on conduct and would help Florida confront extremist groups. CAIR Florida and civil rights organizations argue the move is unconstitutional and targets a Muslim civil rights group without due process.
A federal judge already blocked DeSantis’ earlier executive order designating CAIR as a terrorist organization, finding that it likely violated constitutional protections. The state has appealed that ruling, while DeSantis says the new law provides a stronger legal framework.
The recommendation now goes to Florida’s Republican-controlled Cabinet for approval. The dispute is likely headed back to court, where judges will weigh state security claims against First Amendment and due-process concerns.
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