NewsWUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)August 7, 2026Hillsborough
Florida Highway Patrol seeks information for contractor-run detention centers
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to explore the development of multiple private, contractor-run detention centers across the state. These facilities are intended to house up to 50 adults each under the oversight of the U.S. government.
Read the full story at WUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)Why It Matters
This initiative signals a potential expansion of detention capacity in Florida through private contractors, which could impact local infrastructure, state resources, and federal-state cooperation on detention policies.
Key Facts
- The Florida Highway Patrol issued a formal Request for Information regarding new detention centers.
- The plan involves building multiple detention centers throughout Florida.
- The facilities would be operated by private contractors.
- Each facility is designed to hold up to 50 adults.
- The U.S. Government would provide oversight for the detainees held in these facilities.
Who's Mentioned
organizationFlorida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles“Issued the Request for Information on behalf of the Florida Highway Patrol.”organizationU.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement“Federal agency often associated with detention operations.”other50“Capacity of adults per detention center.”organizationU.S. Government“The entity that would provide oversight for the proposed detention centers.”organizationFlorida Highway Patrol“Leading the initiative to solicit information for detention centers.”personAnna Eskamani“State Representative who criticized the plan and questioned funding sources.”personEricka Gómez-Tejeda“Coordinator with the Immigrants Are Welcome Here coalition.”