Florida governor signs controversial bill that deletes over 50 lines from state statutes: 'It's just going to make us less proactive and prepared'
Story by Mike Taylor • 1d • 3 min read
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill May 15 to remove the phrase "climate change" from state statutes and alter how the state makes energy policy decisions.
What's happening?
As of July 1, local governments will no longer be able to regulate energy policy, and offshore wind farms will be banned within a mile of the coast, Florida Phoenix reported. DeSantis cited "restrictions, regulations, and taxes" imposed by "radical green zealots."
The bill disallows considering "the potential of global climate change" in state energy policy and disavows Florida's role as a leader in "promoting energy conservation, energy security, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions," according to the Phoenix. State agencies will no longer have to consider environmental impacts when purchasing vehicles and other items or booking hotels.
The law also urges studying small nuclear reactor technology, increasing the use of hydrogen-powered vehicles, and enhancing electric grid security, the Associated Press reported via NPR.
In 2008, then-Gov. Charlie Crist, now a Democrat, signed a bill to address rising global temperatures and promote renewable energy. It passed through the Florida legislature unanimously, per the AP. This undoing will remove more than 50 lines of that law.
DeSantis canceled an appearance to sign the bill because of inclement weather.
from msn
https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/florida-governor-signs-controversial-bill-that-deletes-over-50-lines-from-state-statutes-it-s-just-going-to-make-us-less-proactive-and-prepared/ar-BB1n0FWP?ocid=winp1taskbar&cvid=9aed0adc0b134b48948d897263f771a5&ei=71