The 2014 Legislative Session kicked off on March 4th. As always, there are a number of bills the Surfrider Foundation will be monitoring- some are very positive, others extremely damaging. Here is a preliminary list of issues we will be working on:
- Eliminate statewide preemptions on the regulation of plastic bags. Allow local governments to ban, tax or otherwise limit plastic bags. Support S830 "Carryout Bags" sponsored by Senator Bullard.
- Stop preemptions that keep local governments from enacting more stringent septic tank maintenance requirements and strong fertilizer ordinances.
- Support funding for water quality initiatives benefiting Indian River Lagoon, Lake Okeechobee, and other Florida estuaries and waterways impacted by degraded water quality and harmful algal blooms. Support the recommendations of the Senate Select Committee on Indian River Lagoon and Lake Okeechobee Basin, but maintain U.S. Army Corps of Engineers control of Lake Okeechobee releases and flow levels.
- Support funding for springs restoration and protection.
- Oppose any attempt to limit or preemept the acquisition of conservation and recreation lands.
Be sure to check back often for updates on legislation and action alerts so you can get involved!
