Bill > S0726

This bill amends Florida's emergency management statutes to enhance weather forecasting and data integration by creating new requirements for the Division of Emergency Management. The bill defines two key terms: "advanced forecasting products" as tools providing more precise and timely predictions than federal services, and "supplemental weather observational data" as meteorological information collected from non-federal sources. The legislation requires the Division of Emergency Management to integrate these alternative weather data sources into emergency management decision-making, focusing on improving forecast accuracy and public safety. Specifically, the division must identify priority areas for data integration, establish evaluation standards for supplemental weather data, and actively promote the use of these alternative data sources. Additionally, the bill updates the state's comprehensive emergency management plan to include an evaluation of how supplemental weather data and advanced forecasting products impact forecast accuracy, early warning systems, and community resilience. The new provisions aim to leverage innovative weather monitoring and prediction technologies to enhance Florida's emergency preparedness and response capabilities, with the changes set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/726