Florida Park Protection Bill: The Florida House passed a bill on Wednesday to stop pickleball courts, golf courses, and hotels from being built in state parks, following strong public opposition to earlier plans for park development.
Lawmakers Respond to Public Outcry
In 2023, a plan to build new amenities like pickleball courts, golf courses, and hotels in Florida parks faced heavy criticism. Governor Ron DeSantis quickly canceled it, saying the plan was “going back to the drawing board.”
However, Florida lawmakers decided stronger protection was needed. The House voted unanimously to pass HB 209, a bill designed to shield parks from development.
“I think we were all shocked to hear what they were going to do to our precious state parks,” said Rep. Robin Bartleman, D-Weston. “This is in direct response to that plan and in direct response to what our constituents wanted us to do.”
Focus on Protecting Natural Resources
The new bill focuses on preventing damage to natural resources, wildlife habitats, and historic sites inside state parks.
Republican Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman of Highland Beach, one of the bill’s sponsors, said she received over 1,500 emails in a week from people asking lawmakers to protect the parks.
“[Let’s] make sure that we get this done for the people of Florida forever,” she said.
Environmental groups have praised the House bill. They believe it offers stronger protections than a similar Senate bill, SB 80, which is still under review.
What Happens Next
For the bill to become law, both the House and Senate must pass matching versions. The Senate sponsor has shown a willingness to amend their version to match the House’s stronger language.
This move could ensure that Florida’s parks remain free from large developments in the future, keeping them natural for all to enjoy.
News in Brief: Florida Park Protection Bill
The Florida House passed HB 209 to protect state parks from pickleball courts, golf courses, and hotel developments. Lawmakers acted after public outcry in 2023. Environmental groups support the bill. The Senate is considering a similar bill. Both chambers must agree for the measure to become law.
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