management infrastructure . This legislation is a necessary component of Florida ’ s historic investments in flood resilience . I am grateful to Governor DeSantis for supporting this effort .”
“ I am proud Governor DeSantis signed this bipartisan legislation into law . Sea level rise is a complex issue and it is critical that we devote the necessary resources to address it . The report that this bill creates will keep Florida ’ s government informed on how to move forward on this issue ,” said Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez
House Prime Co-Sponsor , Representative Demi Busatta Cabrera , added , “ South Floridians rely on the flood control system to protect them each and every day . It is vital infrastructure that is at the foundation of the health and safety of our community . This legislation sends a beacon from Tallahassee that this important system must be upgraded and prioritized .”
Under current law , the South Florida Water Management District ( SFWMD ) is required to annually publish , by September 1 , a Sea Level Rise and Flood Resilience Plan . HB 513 / SB 1326 directs the SFWMD to consolidate the portions of the Plan related to the C & SF Resiliency Study and submit the document to the Office of Economic and Demographic Research , the Department of Environmental Protection , the Governor , the Senate President , and Speaker of the House by October 1 , annually . The success of the C & SF System is dependent on continued financial and policy investments in flooding and sea level rise by the Florida Legislature .
“ The Central and Southern Florida ( C & SF ) Flood Control Project is the backbone of South Florida ’ s flood protection , holding $ 198.5 billion in taxable value in Broward County alone , yet this system is under serious stress and necessitates greater investment and oversight ,” said Broward County Mayor Michael Udine . “ Thank you to Representative Bartleman , Senator Rodriguez , Representative Busatta Cabrera , and our numerous cosponsors on both sides of the aisle for their commitment to this issue and to the entire Florida Legislature for taking action against the realities of flooding and sea level rise .”
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MAY 2022 • DITCHMEN 15