Pickleball Courts in State Parks: A new bill designed to protect Florida’s state parks from commercial development is moving through the legislature, aiming to prevent projects like pickleball courts, golf courses, and hotels from being built on preserved land. However, concerns are rising that lawmakers may cave to pressure from developers.
Senate Bill 80: A Response to Pickleball Court Plans
Introduced by Republican state Sen. Gayle Harrell, Senate Bill 80, known as the State Park Preservation Act, was drafted after a controversial 2024 proposal attempted to add pickleball courts and other developments to nine Florida state parks. The plan was ultimately dropped after strong public outcry, but supporters of the bill worry that similar efforts could resurface.
The bill has gained strong support from Florida residents, environmental groups, and the USA Today Network Florida Opinion Group, who argue that state parks should remain free from commercial construction.
Could Lawmakers Change the Bill?
While SB 80 aims to block future proposals to build pickleball courts and other facilities in state parks, concerns remain that lobbyists may weaken the bill during the legislative process. Developers have already pushed for pickleball facilities in parks, and without strong legal protections, they may try again.
“Greed never sleeps,” the editorial warns, urging lawmakers to stand firm and not allow the bill to be stripped of its original protections.
Public Encouraged to Take Action
Floridians who support keeping pickleball courts and other developments out of state parks are encouraged to contact lawmakers and voice their opinions.
News in Brief: Pickleball Courts in State Parks
Florida Senate Bill 80, also known as the State Park Preservation Act, aims to stop pickleball courts, hotels, and other developments from being built in state parks. The bill follows a failed 2024 proposal to introduce pickleball facilities in nine parks, sparking public backlash. Supporters urge lawmakers to resist pressure from developers and keep Florida’s natural spaces protected.
ALSO READ: Florida Bill Seeks to Block Pickleball Courts in State Parks to Protect Natural Conservation
