Florida Universities Seek to Deputize Police for Immigration Enforcement

Several public universities in Florida, including Florida Atlantic University, the University of Florida, and the University of South Florida, are seeking to partner with federal immigration authorities to allow campus police to enforce immigration laws. This marks a significant policy shift from previous protections that classified campuses as 'sensitive locations' where such enforcement was generally prohibited. The move aligns with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis's support for the Trump administration's immigration policies, which have recently intensified, resulting in visa revocations for international students over minor infractions. The universities aim to participate in the 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to perform specific immigration officer functions. Critics argue that this expansion of authority could create a hostile environment for international students, as evidenced by recent protests at the University of Florida against deportation threats. The implications of these agreements could lead to heightened anxiety among students and potential conflicts on campus.