The Brief
- Florida lawmakers passed an environmental bill that adds new dredging protections in aquatic preserves, including the Terra Ceia Bay Aquatic Preserve in Manatee County.
- Supporters say the restrictions could effectively block plans for a controversial cruise terminal proposed near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
- The bill includes exceptions for public navigation, public health needs, and environmental restoration projects, which critics say weakens existing law.
TAMPA BAY, Fla. – A new coastal resiliency bill passed by Florida lawmakers could stand in the way of a proposed cruise terminal in Manatee County.
What we know:
The legislation adds new protections for coastal waters, including the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve in Miami and the Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve in Manatee County.
The bill restricts large scale dredging projects in those environmentally sensitive areas. Lawmakers backing the measure say the protections are designed to preserve fragile ecosystems and could prevent major construction projects from permanently altering those waters.…