New Bill Protects Florida’s State Parks Ecosystem

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A New Bill Aiming to Protect State Parks is Underway!

Exciting changes might be ahead for Florida’s state parks! On December 5, 2024, Republican Senator Gayle Harrell introduced the State Park Preservation Act, also known as SB 80, which seeks to ban golf courses, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and ball fields from these beloved natural spaces. Instead, the focus will shift to enhancing activities that foster a deeper connection with nature.

What’s Included in the Bill?

The State Park Preservation Act is packed with guidelines aimed at protecting the environment while promoting healthy outdoor activities. Under the new bill, activities that will be allowed in state parks include:

• Fishing
• Camping
• Bicycling
• Hiking
• Nature study
• Swimming
• Boating
• Canoeing
• Horseback riding
• Diving
• Birding
• Sailing
• Jogging

This list really highlights nature-centric activities, which is a big win for outdoor enthusiasts!

A Response to Public Concerns

This bill seems to come at the right time, especially following the public outcry in August 2024 over plans to expand several state parks. That expansion included ideas for golf courses and lodges, which really didn’t sit well with many residents and lawmakers across party lines. After facing pressure and backlash, Governor Ron DeSantis took a step back from those expansion plans, showing a clear sign that Floridians value their natural spaces and want to keep them intact.

Key Highlights of the Bill

So, what else does this bill entail? One particularly significant aspect is that it would prevent the Division of Recreation and Parks from approving any activities or construction at state parks that could “cause significant harm” to these cherished resources. It’s about time we put the environment first!

Additionally, the legislation calls for:

• Public Hearings: All updates to conservation and non-conservation land management plans will now require public hearings. That means more voices from the community can be heard!
• Transparency: The division must provide a copy of land management plans at least 30 days before public hearings. That gives everyone ample time to prepare and discuss.
• Advisory Input: Management plans for lands in state parks will be developed with input from an advisory group, ensuring that various perspectives contribute to decisions impacting our parks.
• Compliance and Privileges: When granting leases and permits, the division will be obligated to follow specified provisions.

Looking Ahead

If everything goes smoothly, the new regulations could take effect on July 1, 2025. The clock is ticking as interim committee meetings are scheduled to kick off the week of December 9, 2024. The regular legislative session is set to open on March 4, 2025, and will run until May 2, 2025, so there’s plenty of time for discussions and debates about this pivotal bill.

As we gear up for the 2024-2025 legislative session, it’s essential to keep an eye on how this legislation unfolds. For outdoor lovers and advocates for environmental protection, the State Park Preservation Act could represent a monumental shift in how Florida’s natural spaces are managed. So, let’s stay tuned and hope for a bright and green future for our state parks!