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Florida State Parks Now Legally Protected From Commercial Development
- On Thursday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis approved HB 209, a new law that safeguards the state’s parks from commercial development.
- The law was enacted following widespread bipartisan opposition the previous summer to proposals for developing golf courses, hotels, and sports amenities within nine state parks, a plan from which DeSantis later distanced himself.
- The act prohibits golf courses, lodging, and pickleball courts in the 175 state parks and preserves them for conservation activities like hiking, camping, and kayaking.
- Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman described the bill's approval as a successful effort supported across both parties and chambers, while the Florida Wildlife Federation praised the legislation for securing important protections for wildlife, natural areas, and the enjoyment of Florida’s environment by generations to come.
- The law takes effect on July 1 and marks a legislative effort to protect Florida’s natural areas while maintaining opportunities for public activities within state parks.
37 Articles
37 Articles
Officials sound alarm as historic coastal town lands on endangered list: 'Support and funding are needed'
Cedar Key, a small tourist and fishing town in Florida, has been named on the National Trust for Historic Preservation's list of America's "11 Most Endangered Historic Places." According to the Tallahassee Democrat, this distinction doesn't come with money but can bring much-needed awareness. What's happening? The National Trust for Historic Preservation has released this list every year since 1988. President and CEO of the organization, Carol…
Environmentalist ‘happy’ about state parks law, seeks protection of all public lands after Guana land swap controversy
After Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law Thursday that bans major development projects within state park boundaries, environmental advocates hailed the new legislation a major victory for conservation.
Florida state parks gain new protections after DeSantis signs ‘State Land Management’ bill into law
Almost 200 parks across Florida will now have more protections. Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 209, the "State Land Management" bill, into law on Thursday.
Associated Press News
Florida's prized state parks are shielded from golf courses and hotels as DeSantis bows to backlash
Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a bill into law curtailing what kind of development can happen in Florida’s prized state parks.
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