Duval Times

U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Rick Scott (R-FL) have introduced a bill aimed at codifying and protecting the State of Florida’s Clean Water Act dredge and fill permitting program. The legislation also seeks to clarify the law to ensure regulatory certainty. Senator Rubio emphasized the importance of delegating authority to states, stating, "The federal government should seek to delegate authority to the states whenever it can, especially when the procedures are clearly provided in law." He added that the bill would ensure that permitting decisions affecting Florida are made by Floridians, not by Washington bureaucrats.

Senator Scott echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the uniqueness of Florida's waterways and natural resources. He emphasized the need for the state to have the power to make decisions that best suit Floridians while safeguarding natural resources for future generations. Scott stated, "Florida has unique waterways and natural resources that shouldn’t be regulated by a one-size-fits-all federal structure."

U.S. Representative Aaron Bean (R-FL) will introduce companion legislation in the House, further emphasizing the importance of states taking the lead in regulating their natural resources. Congressman Bean stressed the significance of Florida's 404 permitting program in protecting iconic wildlife and valued wetlands while streamlining processes and improving responsiveness to community projects.

The bill introduced by Rubio and Scott aims to ensure that Florida's Clean Water Act permitting authorities are protected and that the state retains control over permitting decisions that impact its residents and environment.