This Week's Headlines Around Florida

April 21, 2025

Florida Senate Bill Would Limit Oil Drilling Near Coastlines | WMNF

A bill in the Florida Legislature would require the Department of Environmental Protection to assess the potential impact of oil and gas drilling blowouts or spills on coastal industries. 

Senate, House Divided on Language in Legislation to Protect State Parks in Florida | Tallahassee Democrat

Two competing bills in the Florida Legislature propose different approaches to managing state parks. Conservation advocates have raised concerns about provisions related to development and recreational use.

Federal Agencies Propose Narrowing Definition of ‘Harm’ Under Endangered Species Act | Florida Specifier

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA Fisheries have proposed a revised definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act. This move aims to align more closely with a stricter interpretation of the term “take” as defined by statute.

Florida Senate Passes Bill That Would Ban Fluoride in Water Supplies | Observer Local News

The Florida Senate has approved legislation to prohibit the addition of fluoride to public water systems throughout the state. If enacted, the bill would mark a significant policy shift in the state’s water treatment practices.

25 Years of Everglades Restoration Has Improved Drinking Water for Millions in Florida — But a New Risk Is Rising | The Bradenton Times

Decades of Everglades restoration have helped improve drinking water quality for millions of Floridians. However, ongoing development and water demand pose new challenges to the fragile ecosystem. 

Environmental and Science Groups Sue Trump Admin for Deleting Environmental Justice and Climate Information From Federal Agency Websites| EcoWatch

A new lawsuit alleges that the Trump administration censored federal climate scientists and limited their ability to communicate research findings. 

Honeymoon Island Renourishes Dunes Ahead of Hurricane Season | Tampa Bay Times

Crews are working to reinforce sand dunes at Honeymoon Island State Park in preparation for hurricane season. The effort aims to protect the shoreline and maintain beach stability.

Hillsborough County Looking for Public Input on Flooding Impacts at Upcoming Meetings | ABC Action News

Officials in Hillsborough County are hosting a series of public meetings to gather feedback on flood risks and potential mitigation strategies. Residents are encouraged to share firsthand experiences and concerns.

A Judge Says that More Protections are Needed for Manatees in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon | WMNF

A federal judge has ruled that current protections for manatees in the Indian River Lagoon are insufficient. The decision calls for stronger regulatory actions to address water pollution and habitat loss.

Millions Watch as Underwater Camera Documents Daily Life on a Miami Coral Reef | WJCT

A livestream of a coral reef off the coast of Miami has drawn millions of viewers. This Coral City Camera has captivated millions of viewers and provided valuable insights into the resilience of “urban corals.”

Citizen Scientists Help Researchers Protect Keystone Species | UF/IFAS

The Panhandle Terrapin Project, now in its 20th season, is a citizen science initiative aimed at studying and conserving diamondback terrapins along the Gulf Coast.


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