The bill CS/HB 1417 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance environmental protection and water quality management, particularly focusing on the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and onsite sewage treatment systems. Key changes include the deletion of provisions establishing the Environmental Regulation Commission and the expansion of the Acquisition and Restoration Council's membership from 10 to 12 members, ensuring representation from scientific disciplines and former elected officials. The bill mandates the DEP to develop best management practices for solar facility construction and requires annual updates based on legal settlements. It also introduces new requirements for properties to connect to central sewer systems or upgrade their wastewater treatment systems, with specific deadlines and compliance measures.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the management of water quality in the Lake Okeechobee, Caloosahatchee River, and St. Lucie River watersheds through the establishment of comprehensive Basin Management Action Plans. These plans will focus on reducing phosphorus levels and improving water quality through regulations, best management practices, and innovative technologies. The bill also outlines responsibilities for various agencies, mandates the development of conservation plans for agricultural entities, and prohibits the disposal of domestic wastewater biosolids in certain watersheds unless it can be demonstrated that nutrient loadings will not increase. Overall, CS/HB 1417 aims to streamline environmental regulations, enhance public health protections, and improve the state's capacity to address water quality and coastal resiliency challenges.

Statutes affected:
H 1417 Filed: 20.255, 259.105, 373.469, 373.807, 373.811, 380.093, 380.502, 380.504, 403.0671, 403.0872, 576.041, 576.045, 120.81, 373.421, 403.031, 403.704, 403.7222, 403.7234, 403.803, 403.8055, 403.814, 376.302, 380.5105
H 1417 c1: 20.255, 259.105, 373.469, 373.807, 373.811, 380.502, 380.504, 403.0671, 403.0872, 255.065, 120.81, 373.421, 403.031, 403.704, 403.7222, 403.7234, 403.803, 403.8055, 403.814, 376.302, 380.5105