Supreme Court Blocks Florida's Immigration Law, DeSantis Vows Continued Enforcement Amid Legal Battles
July 9, 2025
The US Supreme Court has blocked Florida from enforcing a law that criminalizes undocumented immigrants entering the state, maintaining a judicial injunction against its enforcement.
The law, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis in February, was challenged by immigrant advocacy groups who argue it exceeds state authority and conflicts with federal immigration laws.
A federal judge ruled in April that the law is likely preempted by federal authority, citing conflicts such as mandatory detention provisions that could interfere with federal immigration enforcement.
Legal battles continue with scheduled arguments in October, and the outcome will influence Florida's ability to enforce the law while appeals are pending.
The Supreme Court's decision was announced on July 10, 2025, reflecting ongoing legal disputes over immigration enforcement at the state level.
Despite legal restrictions, law enforcement activities persist, including recent arrests in St. Johns County, with some cases dismissed or charges vacated.
Several individuals, including U.S. citizens, have been arrested under the law, and Florida continues to push for its enforcement despite the legal setbacks.
Florida officials, including Governor DeSantis, have announced large-scale operations resulting in over 1,000 arrests of undocumented immigrants in a week, demonstrating continued aggressive enforcement.
The legal ruling may influence similar laws in other states and impacts ongoing political discussions about immigration enforcement.
Supporters of the law include 17 states and the Trump administration, while opponents, including immigrant rights groups and the ACLU, criticize it as unlawful and harmful.
The legal battle is part of broader Republican efforts to implement stricter immigration policies at the state level, often facing legal hurdles.
Florida’s Attorney General and law enforcement officials have expressed a commitment to enforce the law despite legal challenges, with some suggesting a willingness to defy court orders.
Summary based on 26 sources
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Sources

The Washington Post • Jul 9, 2025
Supreme Court refuses to allow Florida to enforce new immigration law
The Guardian • Jul 9, 2025
US supreme court blocks Florida from enforcing anti-immigration law
USA TODAY • Jul 9, 2025
Supreme Court won't let Florida enforce controversial immigration law
NPR • Jul 9, 2025
Supreme Court blocks part of Florida's immigration law