The bill aims to enhance coastal resiliency in Florida by amending existing statutes and introducing new provisions related to the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve. It authorizes specific dredging and filling activities for the restoration and enhancement of natural systems, including the management of substrates for vegetation planting and the restoration of mangroves, salt marshes, seagrasses, and oyster reefs. Additionally, it allows for the placement of living shorelines and seawalls to stabilize eroding shorelines. The bill also modifies the criteria for erecting structures within aquatic preserves, permitting nature-based solutions such as living seawalls and vegetation planting to improve coastal resiliency.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the Department of Environmental Protection to develop guidelines and standards for nature-based methods to address coastal resiliency by January 1, 2027. This includes establishing a clear and consistent statewide permitting process for these methods, which encompasses various nature-based solutions and incentives for local governments to engage in coastal protection projects. The department is also tasked with promoting public awareness of the importance of nature-based solutions for coastal resiliency, emphasizing the preservation and restoration of natural systems along the coastline. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1035 Filed: 258.42