Court blocks DeSantis order labeling CAIR a 'terrorist organization'

A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking Gov. Ron DeSantis' December executive order that labeled the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) a "terrorist organization," saying the action threatened constitutional protections; the next legal steps are undetermined at this time.

A federal judge has temporarily blocked Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' executive order that labeled the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) a "terrorist organization." The order, issued on Dec. 8, had aimed to bar CAIR from receiving contracts, employment, funds or other government benefits. U.S. District Judge Mark Walker issued a preliminary injunction and said the governor's action amounted to a political statement at the expense of constitutional rights. The judge cited First Amendment concerns and historical protections for religious minorities in his reasoning. Key details: - U.S. District Judge Mark Walker issued a preliminary injunction against enforcement of the December executive order. - The December order labeled CAIR a "terrorist organization" and sought to restrict the group's ability to receive government contracts, funds, employment, or other benefits. - The judge wrote that the order coerced third parties and suppressed protected speech, citing First Amendment principles and historical references to protections for religious minorities. - CAIR's executive director issued a statement thanking partners and describing the ruling as a reminder that the Constitution matters. Summary: The injunction prevents the state from enforcing the labeling and related restrictions while the case proceeds, and the court framed the decision around constitutional speech and association protections. Undetermined at this time.