The bill amends Florida Statutes to enhance regulations surrounding the drilling, exploration, and extraction of oil and gas resources, particularly in relation to environmental protections. It introduces a prohibition on the drilling, exploration, or production of petroleum products within 10 miles of national estuarine research reserves in designated rural areas of opportunity. Additionally, the Department of Environmental Protection is required to consider various ecological factors when assessing the potential risks of accidents or blowouts in certain bodies of water and shore areas, implementing a balancing test to evaluate the adequacy of protections for natural resources.

Furthermore, the bill makes several technical changes to existing statutes, including the conditions under which permits for drilling and extraction can be granted. It clarifies that no structures for drilling or production may be permitted on submerged lands within bays or estuaries, and it outlines specific distances from coastlines and freshwater bodies where such activities are restricted. The bill also reenacts sections related to permit conditions and penalties for violations, ensuring that the new regulations are integrated into the existing legal framework. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1143 Filed: 377.242
H 1143 e1: 377.242
H 1143 er: 377.242