Florida Receives $13.6 Million Federal Boost for Statewide Immigration Enforcement Expansion

Florida has secured $13.6 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to enhance immigration enforcement through the 287(g) Task Force Model, which empowers Florida Highway Patrol troopers to identify, process, and detain individuals violating federal immigration laws. Since March, over 4,900 illegal immigrants, including nearly 900 with criminal histories, have been apprehended as part of these efforts. The funding will be used to purchase equipment and vehicles to support immigration enforcement missions amid rising threats and hostility faced by officers. This federal investment aligns with Florida's recent state-level commitment, where Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet approved $14 million from a $250 million state grant to fund immigration enforcement activities, including compensating officers and acquiring technology and equipment. These combined efforts underscore Florida's intensified focus on immigration enforcement, involving coordination among multiple local, state, and federal agencies. The funding also supports officer safety and operational mobility as Florida continues its immigration operations statewide.