2025 Mid-Session Update

As we reach the midpoint of the 2025 Florida Legislative Session, there’s promising progress on key conservation bills, while critical challenges also remain. We’re closely tracking legislation that will shape the future of our state’s natural resources and actively working with House and Senate leadership to boldly advocate for Florida’s wildlife. 

• SB 80/ HB 209 The State Parks Preservation Act have each passed their first committee stop. These bills by Senator Harrell and Representative Snyder protect Florida’s state parks, improve the transparency when changes are made to land management plans, and direct the Department of Environmental Protection to submit a report for necessary maintenance funding. 
• SB 50/ HB 371 Nature-based Methods for Improving Coastal Resilience have both sailed through their committees with bipartisan support. This legislation by Senator Garcia and Representative Mooney supports the creation of coastal habitat through mangrove planting and restoration of oyster reefs, salt marshes, and coral reefs. 
• HB 1143 Permits for Drilling, Exploration, and Extraction of Oil and Gas Resources has passed its first committee stop. This bill by Representative Shoaf protects critical water resources and habitats from oil or gas drilling and exploration activities.  

Our support for restoring the Ocklawaha River and reestablishing passage for fish, wildlife and people from Silver Springs to the Ocklawaha River to the St. Johns Estuary from Palatka to Jacksonville continues this session.  Restoration is gaining traction as leaders in Tallahassee become more aware of the magnitude and importance of this system which spans 217 miles and provides countless economic and recreational opportunities.  

We’re keeping an eye on Senate Bill 1142 Release of Conservation Easements and House Bill 1175 Mitigation Banks because of language that could set a concerning precedent for extinguishing conservation easements that are meant to be in perpetuity.  The potential weakening of conservation easements could jeopardize decades of work protecting our precious lands and habitats. 

Additionally, the need for robust Florida Forever funding cannot be overstated. As Florida’s premier land acquisition program, it has proven essential for protecting critical ecosystems and ensuring public access to natural spaces. Predictable and consistent funding for Florida Forever must remain a budget priority. 

We will continue advocating for FWF’s legislative priorities and policies that prioritize Florida’s wildlife, natural resources, and conservation efforts. As the session progresses, your voice remains crucial. We will reach out via email or social media when we need your help reaching out to your legislators. Stay engaged and join us in fighting for Florida’s conservation future.