Florida Plastic Straw Preemption

As the Session progressed, the straw bills got worse. Two bills, SB588 and HB 1299, were amended to preempt other issues as well, including local sunscreen ordinances. Surfrider activists across the State engaged their elected offcials, writing opeds, sending emails, and hosting phone banks. Thanks to public opposition, the straw bills died.

Unfortunately, in the waning days of Session, the House amended an unrealted bill, HB 771, in its final committee stop. The bill did not relate to plastic straws, but nevertheless, they added a 5-year moratorium on local straw ordinances. This moratoriu would have reversed the many ordinances our activists helped to pass over the years. Fortunately, thanks to the tireless efforts of our activists, the calls and emails to Governor DeSantis were heard. On May 10th, Florida Governor DeSantis issued a veto of HB 771, writing, “The State should simply allow local communities to address this issue through the political process. Citizens who oppose plastic straw ordinances can seek recourse by electing people who share their views.” Click here to read the full statement.

The Surfrider Foundation applauds Governor DeSantis for standing up for home rule and Florida's environment.