FLORIDA - Florida lawmakers have passed a new preparedness bill aimed at improving disaster response and long-term rebuilding.
Senate Bill 180 is designed to enhance recovery efforts and encourage better local planning after storms, but not everyone agrees it hits the mark.
The legislation, backed by Rep. Fiona McFarland (R-Sarasota), seeks to streamline how communities rebound after hurricanes.
McFarland acknowledged no bill is perfect but said she’s proud of the progress made during the legislative session.
Still, concerns have surfaced among fellow lawmakers. Rep. Linda Chaney (R-St. Pete Beach) voiced reservations over parts of the bill that could limit local governments’ ability to update disaster recovery plans and implement stricter building rules.
“We’re in the path of storms every year,” Chaney noted.
“This may prevent local governments from adjusting their recovery strategies to better protect their communities.”
Coastal counties have raised similar concerns, warning that the bill could create roadblocks for cities hoping to rebuild smarter and stronger.
Matthew Singer of the Florida League of Cities, representing over 400 municipalities, warned that legal challenges could arise if local projects are deemed too burdensome to outside interests, potentially delaying recovery efforts.
Despite the criticism, the bill has cleared the legislature and is awaiting action from Governor Ron DeSantis.
While he could veto it, most expect him to sign it into law. Lawmakers say adjustments can still be made in future sessions as Florida continues to adapt its storm response.