Florida Governor Signs Controversial Terrorism Law

New legislation grants DeSantis power to label groups as terrorists and expel student supporters.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:56am

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A fractured, abstract painting of a gavel breaking apart into overlapping geometric shapes in deep red and navy blue, conveying the divisive political clash over free speech and state power.A new Florida law grants the governor sweeping powers to label groups as 'terrorists' and expel student supporters, sparking concerns over free speech.Today in Tampa

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed into law a measure that grants him the authority to designate certain groups as 'terrorist organizations' and expel students who express support for those groups from public universities. The law has drawn criticism from civil liberties advocates who argue it infringes on free speech rights.

Why it matters

This law represents an escalation of the ongoing political tensions in Florida, where the governor has clashed repeatedly with left-leaning student activists and advocacy groups. Critics say the new powers could be used to target and silence dissent, while supporters argue it's necessary to combat extremism on college campuses.

The details

The new law empowers the governor to unilaterally label any group as a 'terrorist organization' based on allegations of unlawful or disruptive activities. Students found to be 'members' of these groups or expressing support for them can then be expelled from public universities. The law does not require any due process or judicial review before a group is designated as 'terrorist'.

  • Governor DeSantis signed the law on April 7, 2026.

The players

Governor Ron DeSantis

The Republican governor of Florida, known for his conservative policies and combative approach to left-leaning activism.

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What they’re saying

“This law is a blatant attack on free speech and dissent. It gives the governor unchecked power to silence anyone he disagrees with under the guise of fighting terrorism.”

— Amelia Gonzalez, ACLU of Florida Legal Director

“We must take strong action to protect our universities from radical ideologies that seek to undermine our democratic values. This law will help us maintain order and keep our campuses safe.”

— Governor Ron DeSantis

What’s next

Legal challenges to the law are expected to be filed in the coming weeks, setting up a potential court battle over the limits of the governor's powers.

The takeaway

This controversial new law in Florida highlights the growing divide between conservatives and progressives over the boundaries of free speech, with the governor asserting broad new powers to crack down on student activism deemed threatening to the state's political order.