Governor DeSantis Signs Bill Targeting Speech

Ronald DeSantis, photo by Gage Skidmore

TAMPA — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed legislation expanding the state’s “domestic terrorist” designation, drawing concern from civil liberties advocates who warn the measure could be used to target constitutionally protected speech.

DeSantis discussed the bill, passed by Republicans along party lines, during a public appearance at the University of South Florida Alumni Center. He argues that a program of “stealth jihad” exists and must be targeted to keep Floridians safe. Critics say the language is overly vague and is likely to be applied beyond its stated intent.

“Placing unilateral power in the hands state officials to designate domestic terrorist organizations is unjust and un-American,” said St Petersburg State Representative Lindsay Cross. “I stood against this bill on the House floor and its abuse of executive power in Florida.”

Advocacy groups raised concerns that the law endangers individuals or groups engaged in political protest or controversial speech. In December, DeSantis designated CAIR, a US-based Muslim civil rights advocacy group, a “foreign terrorist organization.” Now this new law makes it a crime to “knowingly provide material support or resources to a domestic terrorist organization.” The result appears to be the criminalization of civil rights advocacy on behalf of Muslim Americans.

The governor has defended the measure as a public safety tool, emphasizing the need for law enforcement to respond to emerging threats. However, opponents argue the lack of clear guardrails infringes on First Amendment protections.

Legal observers say the law’s real-world application will likely be tested in court, as questions remain about how broadly it can be enforced and whether it withstands constitutional scrutiny.