This bill amends section 255.065 of the Florida Statutes to revise the definition of "qualifying project" to include coastal resiliency projects, thereby expanding the scope of public-private partnerships to encompass initiatives aimed at addressing flooding and sea level rise. Additionally, it creates a new section, 380.0934, which grants the Department of Environmental Protection exclusive authority to execute coastal resiliency projects through public-private partnerships. The bill outlines specific definitions related to coastal resiliency projects, including planning, contracting, and execution of projects that address flooding, infrastructure repairs, and measures to withstand extreme weather.

Furthermore, the bill authorizes the Department of Environmental Protection to take various actions to encourage private sector investment in these projects, such as entering into long-term revenue-sharing agreements and providing expedited permitting. It also mandates the department to publish biennial progress reports on coastal resiliency projects, detailing milestones, expenditures, and public benefits, and to maintain an online dashboard for real-time updates on project execution. This legislation aims to enhance Florida's infrastructure resilience in the face of climate change and natural disasters.

Statutes affected:
S 1580 c1: 255.065