Florida Expands Immigration Enforcement Powers with New Agreements
Florida is significantly expanding its authority in immigration enforcement, with Governor Ron DeSantis directing state law enforcement agencies to collaborate more closely with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This move, building on initiatives launched in 2025, aims to increase deportations and enhance community safety, according to state officials.
Expanded 287(g) Agreements
At the direction of Governor DeSantis, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Florida State Guard have entered into agreements with ICE to execute functions of immigration enforcement within the state. These agreements fall under Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which authorizes state and local law enforcement to perform certain immigration enforcement functions Florida Governor’s Office.
The Florida Highway Patrol and the Florida Department of Agricultural Law Enforcement have already implemented similar agreements with ICE.
Operation Tidal Wave and Arrest Numbers
These expanded efforts are part of a broader strategy that includes “Operation Tidal Wave,” a state-wide crackdown on illegal immigration launched in April 2025. As of January 5, 2026, Operation Tidal Wave has led to the arrest of over 10,400 individuals suspected of being in the country illegally Fox News, CBS12.
Federal Funding and Support
Florida is receiving tens of millions of dollars in federal funding to support these enforcement activities. This includes $28 million, with an additional $10 million directed to local law enforcement Fox News. The funds are part of a larger $1.7 billion being distributed nationwide.
Specifically, $2.7 million will support transportation for local agencies, and $7.3 million will provide equipment for 974 local officers. At the state level, $1 million is allocated for transportation and $27.5 million for equipment benefiting 3,676 state officers Fox News.
Focus on Criminal Aliens
The agreements prioritize the identification and removal of incarcerated individuals who are eligible for deportation before their release back into the community Florida Governor’s Office. The initiative involves collaboration with multiple federal agencies, including ICE, CBP, FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals, as well as numerous Florida sheriff’s offices CBS12.
Statewide Commitment to Enforcement
Statewide prosecutors have committed to imposing strict sentences before deportation, reinforcing Florida’s commitment to robust immigration enforcement CBS12.