Florida Eliminates Climate Change Provisions From State Law

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill that removes climate change as a key focus in state laws, promotes the use of natural gas, and curtails offshore wind power projects. Gov. DeSantis signed HB 1645 “Energy Resources” bill on Thursday. The bill repeals the Florida Energy and Climate Protection Act and amends state statutes, removing the following provisions related to climate change from state law: Florida is supposed to “recognize and address the potential of global climate change wherever possible.” The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services must engage in advocating for “climate change issues.” “The impacts of global climate change can be reduced through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.” Florida is “positioned at the front line against potential impacts of global climate change.” “A single government entity with a specific focus on energy and climate change is both desirable and advantageous.” HB 1645 eliminates requirements related to the “Florida Climate-Friendly Preferred Products List.” This provision had instructed the Department of Management Services to consult with the Department of Environmental Protection and assess whether the items available for purchase under state contracts include products that have “clear energy efficiency or other environmental benefits” over alternatives....