FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   June 10, 2003
CONTACT:   Deena Wells, (850) 528-2155

Record New Funding to Save the Everglades

- Florida Keeps Money Flowing Into the River of Grass -

Tallahassee - Governor Jeb Bush today signed Senate Bill 54A that clarifies amendments made to the Everglades Forever Act during the Regular Session this year. The legislation also provides the bonding authority for an additional $800 million for Everglades Restoration. Including the record $225 million appropriated in this year’s budget, Florida’s total financial commitment to restore water flow through the famed River of Grass now tops $1.5 billion.

“Florida’s commitment to restoration of America’s Everglades continues,” said Governor Jeb Bush. “We have the plan and we’re providing the money to make restoration a reality. We’re keeping our promise to the famed River of Grass.”

The legislation signed today eliminates specific language within the amended Everglades Forever Act that has been a source of concern to Florida’s federal partners. Since the law has been the subject of intense debate and scrutiny, Governor Bush asked the Legislature to clarify specific language in the bill. Amendments made to SB 54A during Special Session:

• Removes the phrases “maximum extent practicable” and “earliest practicable date” from all parts of the amended Everglades Forever Act.
• Allows the use of moderating provisions in the water quality standard until 2016.
• Requires the Department of Environmental Protection to approve revisions to the Long-Term Plan.
• Requires Florida to implement pre-2006 phosphorus reduction technologies as soon as possible.

“In one of the tightest budget years in recent history, the Florida Legislature and Governor Jeb Bush doubled Florida’s financial commitment to ensure restoration remains on time and on budget,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary David B. Struhs. “We also have the plan, the enforceable schedule and the money to complete the cleanup of pollution in the Everglades. There should be no question about Florida’s commitment. ”

In February, Governor Bush and the Florida Cabinet transferred cash reserves into Florida’s land conservation programs, Florida Forever and Preservation 2000, to ensure money would be available to restore the Everglades. The Florida Legislature appropriated $200 million of these funds for Everglades restoration. The bonding authority provided through SB 54A was necessary because of lawsuits surrounding an amendment to the original bonding bill, HB 813, enacted last year, which prevented Florida from using this funding tool.

Cash Commitment to the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan

Note: 2002-2003 State/SFWMD does not include $100,000 appropriation for bonded proceeds due to HB 813 challenge.
Note: 2003-2004 State/SFWMD includes $200 Million State Appropriation, $25 Million Save Our Rivers Appropriation.
Note: FY2004 Federal Budget is not final
Note: Of the $715.9 Million - $505 Million is State and $210.9 Million is SFWMD

 

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