Gov. DeSantis Requests $625 Million for Everglades Restoration
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Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his request to the Florida Legislature of $625 million in recurring funding for the next three years for Everglades restoration and protection of Florida’s water resources. This funding will meet the $2.5 billion goal outlined in the Governor’s Bold Vision for a Brighter Future budget. The Governor was joined by First Lady Casey DeSantis, Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Noah Valenstein, Senator Rob Bradley, Senator Kathleen Passidomo and Representative Dane Eagle.
The Governor also announced his support for legislation to increase fines for environmental crimes by 50 percent across the board. The legislation will also empower DEP to assess daily fines until the environmental harm has been remedied or a plan has been developed in partnership with DEP to address the issue.
“Since day one, it has been a top priority of my administration to protect our environment and find innovative solutions to the environmental issues facing our state,” said Governor DeSantis. “This historic funding is key to the success of our fight to protect our environment and water resources, which are the foundation of Florida’s economy and way of life. A hardline increase in fines across the board sends a clear message to those who would pollute our state’s natural resources – Florida will not stand for it.”
“These historic steps to protect our environment and water quality underline a strong focus by Governor DeSantis to safeguard Florida’s natural resources,” said DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein. “The increase of fines will provide an additional tool to enforce the environmental laws we have on the books.”
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