Bill > S1422

This bill amends existing Florida law to strengthen protections for coral reefs by formally recognizing their value as critical natural infrastructure and a nature-based solution that helps mitigate risks from climate change and natural disasters like floods and storms. It designates coral reefs in specific South Florida counties—Broward, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, and Palm Beach—as being in the public interest for protection. The bill also clarifies the state's role as the lead trustee for coral reef resources and revises provisions related to calculating monetary damages and civil penalties for harm to coral reefs, including increased penalties for more severe damage, repeat offenses, and damage occurring within state parks or aquatic preserves, with a maximum penalty of $375,000 per incident. This legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

Environment and Natural Resources (Senate)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/1422