Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Plans to Designate Groups as Terrorist Organizations

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced on July 1, 2026, that the state intends to utilize a new law, HB 1471, to designate over 90 groups as terrorist organizations. The law, which went into effect on the same day, requires approval from the Florida Cabinet for the designations to be finalized. Among the groups targeted are the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the Muslim Brotherhood, and Antifa. DeSantis stated that this action aims to combat terrorist organizations operating in Florida. The law allows the Chief of Domestic Security to make designations, which must then be approved by the governor and Cabinet. The law also prohibits public support and funding for designated groups and establishes penalties for providing material support to them. CAIR has condemned the move, asserting that it does not engage in terrorist activity and plans to challenge the designations in court, claiming they threaten First Amendment rights. Critics argue that the designations are politically motivated and could infringe on free speech.