A federal appeals court has overturned a legal order requiring Florida and US President Donald Trump's administration to shut 'Alligator Alcatraz,' allowing the immigration detention centre to stay open.
In a 2-1 ruling, the appellate court in Atlanta, Georgia, granted a request from the state of Florida and the US homeland security department to block a lower court injunction while a lawsuit plays out.
Alligator Alcatraz is in fact, like we've always said, open for business, said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Last month, US District Judge Kathleen Williams ordered a halt to the facility's expansion and for its dismantling to begin within 60 days.
Judge Williams agreed with environmental groups and a Native American tribe that argued the facility should have undergone federal environmental reviews. However, the US Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit ruled officials likely could show the facility was not subject to the National Environmental Policy Act since it had not yet received any federal funding.
The Department of Homeland Security described the appellate ruling as a win for the American people, the rule of law and common sense.
Environmental advocates expressed disappointment, calling the decision a heartbreaking blow to America's Everglades. The Miccosukee Tribe has yet to comment on the ruling.
