Florida Lawmakers Advance Bill to Prohibit Development on State Park Land
Florida Lawmakers Advance Bill to Prohibit Development on State Park Land
TALLAHASSEE — In a unanimous vote on Tuesday, a committee of Florida lawmakers moved forward with a bill that would prevent the construction of golf courses, hotels, pickleball courts, and other amenities on state park land. This decision comes after widespread outrage sparked by a proposal from the DeSantis administration to develop various state parks, as reported by the Tampa Bay Times last summer.
Republican Sen. Gayle Harrell, the sponsor of the bill, emphasized the importance of preserving the unique natural resources found in state parks for the enjoyment and conservation of all Floridians. The proposed legislation, known as SB 80, would only allow for “conservation-based” outdoor recreation activities like canoeing, bicycling, and hiking to be built in state parks, while also increasing transparency around any proposed changes.
The public outcry following the initial proposal led to a coalition of 70 organizations and businesses supporting the bill, particularly praising the extension of the public notice period for future changes to land management plans to 30 days. This move aims to enhance public awareness and engagement in decisions regarding state park development.
While the bill focuses on prohibiting development in state parks, there are calls to extend these protections to state forests and wildlife management areas as well. Last year, a controversial deal to swap state forest land for timberland raised concerns about the potential harm to Florida’s natural habitats.
Despite initial plans for development, Gov. Ron DeSantis has since distanced himself from the proposal, stating that the state would reconsider its approach. The bill now faces further review in Senate committees and a full Senate vote before potentially moving to the House for consideration.
The ongoing debate highlights the importance of balancing conservation efforts with recreational opportunities in Florida’s public lands, as lawmakers work to protect the state’s natural resources for future generations.
