A federal appeals court last week ordered the “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center to remain open partially because it lacked federal ties. The 2-1 vote claimed that federal environmental laws don’t apply because Florida officials haven’t used any federal money. “The State of Florida submitted an application for reimbursement to [FEMA],” the spokesperson said. Federal authorities similarly lauded the facility as a joint effort, but showed no signs of chipping in until last week. The Everglades facility is estimated to cost around $450 million for the year.