Florida Lawmakers Seek Public Input On Conservation Amendment

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Weeki Wachee Springs, FL
George/flickr
Weeki Wachee Springs, FL
Credit George/flickr

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Florida voters passed the Water and Land Conservation Amendment in November. It requires one third of documentary stamp revenue – a tax on real estate transactions - to go toward environmental initiatives.

The Florida Legislature must spend a portion of the documentary stamp money on environmental programs, like buying land and preserving springs.

Senate President Andy Gardiner has suggested using the amendment to craft a five-year plan for long-term water and conservation projects.

Lawmakers will determine how the amendment is put into action. So they’re asking for ideas. The Florida Senate has a page on its website for public comment. Committee members will meet over the next few months to review the comments as they draft legislation.

Up to $20 billion is expected to be generated for conservation efforts over the next 20 years.

Click here to tell lawmakers how they should implement the amendment.

Copyright 2015 WLRN 91.3 FM

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Gina Jordan reports from Tallahassee for WUSF and WLRN about how state policy affects your life.