October 29, 2025

2026 Legislative Priorities

Protecting Florida’s Waters, Wildlife, and Future

At Florida Oceanographic Society, we’re committed to protecting and restoring Florida’s coastal ecosystems through research, education, and advocacy. Every day, we work to safeguard the waterways, wetlands, and wildlife that make our state so special.

From our Coastal Center in Stuart, Florida, we welcome more than 60,000 visitors annually—each inspired to take action for our oceans and estuaries. But protecting these fragile environments requires more than just passion—it requires strong policy, bold leadership, and legislative support.

That’s why we’re sharing our 2026 State Legislative Priorities, focused on three key areas: Water Quality, Everglades Restoration, and Climate Action.

For more info, you can download a PDF version HERE.

Water Quality: Protecting Florida’s Lifeblood

Clean water is essential—for people, for wildlife, and for the health of our estuaries and coastal ecosystems. Unfortunately, Florida’s waters continue to face challenges from nutrient pollution, stormwater runoff, and wetland loss.

To protect our waterways, we’re urging legislators to:

  • STRENGTHEN state laws to reduce nutrient pollution and enforce real penalties for violations.

  • FUND critical projects under the Northern Everglades and Estuaries Protection Program, which helps manage and restore water quality.

  • INVEST in restoration research focused on rebuilding oyster reefs, seagrass meadows, and other essential marine habitats.

  • OPPOSE legislation that limits local governments from enacting community-based water quality and habitat protection solutions.

Healthy water isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of Florida’s environment, economy, and way of life.

Everglades Restoration: Securing Florida’s Waters

The Everglades is the heart of Florida’s water system, filtering and storing the freshwater that sustains our ecosystems and communities. It also protects against flooding and supports billions in economic activity.

To ensure the success of Everglades restoration, we advocate to:

  • FUND full restoration and water projects to keep pace with the EAA Reservoir completion timeline.

  • INVEST in Stormwater Treatment Areas (STAs) and other water storage solutions to reduce harmful discharges and improve water quality.

  • STRENGTHEN protection for Florida’s natural wetlands, which are critical to maintaining healthy habitats and resilient ecosystems.

Restoring the Everglades means restoring balance—to our rivers, estuaries, and coasts.

Climate Action: Building Resilience for the Future

Florida’s coastlines are ground zero for climate change impacts, including rising sea levels, flooding, and saltwater intrusion. To secure a sustainable future, we must invest in climate resilience and environmental protection today.

We’re calling on legislators to:

  • SUPPORT climate-smart land-use policies that protect wetlands and natural resources.

  • FUND restoration projects in the St. Lucie Estuary, Indian River Lagoon, and Southeast Florida Coral Reef Tract—ecosystems vital to climate resilience.

  • SUPPORT efforts to reduce plastic pollution and protect marine life from harmful debris.

  • FUND resilient infrastructure and flood mitigation strategies to safeguard communities from sea-level rise.

By prioritizing climate resilience, we can protect Florida’s coasts, communities, and ecosystems for generations to come.

Together, We Can Protect Florida’s Future

At Florida Oceanographic Society, we believe in a future where clean water, healthy estuaries, and thriving marine life are the norm—not the exception. But achieving that vision takes action from all of us—citizens, scientists, and lawmakers alike.

Join us in advocating for stronger environmental protections and smarter water management across the state. Together, we can create lasting change for Florida’s coastal ecosystems and communities.

Category
Advocacy