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Florida Lawmakers Seek Public Input On Conservation Amendment

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

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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

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