The State Park Preservation Act aims to improve the management and conservation of state lands in Florida by mandating public hearings for updated conservation and non-conservation land management plans. The Division of State Lands is required to provide electronic copies of land management plans for parcels over 160 acres and those located in state parks at least 30 days prior to public hearings. The bill also emphasizes the development of individual management plans for state park parcels with input from advisory groups, which must hold public hearings to ensure community involvement in the decision-making process.

Additionally, the bill revises the responsibilities of the Division of Recreation and Parks, focusing on conservation-based public outdoor recreational uses while prohibiting certain activities, such as the installation of lodging establishments within state parks. It allows the division to grant privileges and permits for visitor accommodations without competitive bidding, while ensuring that natural curiosities remain accessible. The legislation also introduces provisions for camping cabins in state parks, mandates regular updates to management plans, and requires the Department of Environmental Protection to report on the state park system by December 1, 2025. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 80 Filed: 253.034, 258.004, 259.032
S 80 c1: 253.034, 258.004