Florida's efforts to expand its immigration detention capacity face legal challenges, with a lawsuit filed by environmental groups seeking to halt construction of the Alligator Alcatraz facility in the Everglades.

The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of Florida, is complicated by jurisdictional issues, as the facility is located in Collier County within the Middle District, while the case was filed in Miami-Dade County's district.

A virtual hearing on the lawsuit took place on July 21, 2025, with U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams indicating that the case's complexity would likely prolong the decision process.

A scheduled hearing on July 30 aims to determine the correct jurisdiction, with a subsequent hearing on August 6 to decide on a temporary restraining order sought by the environmental groups.

Environmental advocates argue that a significant portion of the events related to the project occurred in Miami-Dade, making it the appropriate venue, while the state claims the case belongs in the Middle District.

Florida officials, including Governor Ron DeSantis and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, support the facility as part of broader efforts to bolster immigration enforcement, despite criticism from environmentalists.

The state has a $37 million contract for construction at the site, contradicting claims that no new construction is taking place, and defending the projects as minor and environmentally harmless.

Critics, including environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe, argue the facility threatens the delicate Everglades ecosystem and seek to intervene or halt the project altogether.

The court has expressed frustration with the plaintiffs' shifting demands, which have evolved from halting construction to preventing the intake of more detainees after the facility's opening.

The lawsuit also challenges detainee conditions, with plaintiffs' attorney highlighting poor sanitation and food issues, though these concerns are considered unrelated to the environmental aspects of the case.