The Key West City Commission voted 6–1 this week to void its 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ending a program that allowed local police officers to perform certain federal immigration duties. Commissioners said the pact, signed in March without their formal approval, conflicted with the city charter and community sentiment. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier responded on 2 July with a formal letter declaring the move illegal under the state’s ban on so-called sanctuary policies and a newer statute that requires local governments to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Uthmeier warned commissioners that failure to reinstate the agreement could trigger civil and criminal penalties, including removal from office by the governor. Governor Ron DeSantis, speaking at the opening of the state’s new Alligator Alcatraz migrant detention facility, backed the attorney general’s stance, saying local governments "have to abide by Florida law." Representative Byron Donalds, a prospective 2026 gubernatorial candidate, echoed the call for reversal. Under mounting state pressure, the Key West commission has scheduled a special meeting for Tuesday to decide whether to rescind its vote.
DeSantis will likely suspend 5 of the 6 Key West City Commissioners for canceling an agreement w/DHS to have local cops enforce immigration law Florida’s AG made that clear So now they’re having a special meeting Tuesday to undo the cancelation https://t.co/upGP6SKsWx
DeSantis will likely suspend 5 of the 6 Key West City Commissioners for canceling an agreement w/DHS to have local cops enforce immigration law Florida’s AG made that clear So not they’re having a special meeting Tuesday to undo the cancelation https://t.co/upGP6SKsWx
🚨 The Florida Key West commission has voted to END the city's partnership with ICE 🤦🏻♂️ • The Key West commission has voted to end the city's partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). • Key West city commissioners voted 6-1 to approve a resolution that https://t.co/7NJbEEKWxF