Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 1471 on April 6, 2026, with an effective date of July 1. The measure expands state powers concerning organizations designated as terrorist groups.
The law authorizes the chief of domestic security to make designations subject to approval or rejection by the governor and Cabinet. It provides notice and a route for appeal.
The education provisions restrict public funding and require colleges and universities to act against students promoting terrorism, including expulsion and reporting certain student-visa holders to federal authorities.
A separate provision limits application of foreign or religious law when it would violate constitutional rights.
Civil-liberties objections concern the breadth of the designation powers and the consequences for speech and association.
