The proposed bill, titled the Northeast Florida Rivers, Springs, and Community Investment Act, aims to enhance the restoration and economic development of the Ocklawaha River and its tributaries. It mandates the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to hire a project lead with expertise in conservation and recreation planning by August 31, 2026, and to develop a comprehensive project plan for the Ocklawaha River's restoration by July 1, 2027. This plan will focus on restoring the river's natural flow and hydrology, including measures such as breaching the Kirkpatrick Dam. The project plan will be classified as an environmental restoration project, requiring a general permit from the DEP and water management districts, and must be completed by December 31, 2032, contingent on available funding.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Northeast Florida River and Springs Recreation and Economic Development Advisory Council, which will be chaired by the project lead and composed of various stakeholders, including representatives from local governments and environmental organizations. The council is tasked with submitting an advisory report by February 1, 2027, outlining recommendations for outdoor recreation projects and economic development initiatives in Marion and Putnam Counties. The DEP is also required to develop an outdoor recreation plan and a grant program to support these initiatives, with implementation deadlines set for January 1, 2028, and February 1, 2028, respectively. The economic development program, to be developed by the Department of Commerce, aims to foster job creation and economic diversification in the region.