Committee approves mangrove planning and restoration bill to strengthen coastal resilience

Vice Chair Mooney presented HB 1035 as a program to strengthen coastal resilience through mangrove planning, restoration and nature-based infrastructure. He said the bill directs the Department of Environmental Protection to establish statewide permitting processes and to develop design guidelines for green and hybrid green–gray infrastructure.

Public testimony included support from 1000 Friends of Florida, the Environmental Defense Fund and the Florida Association of Counties. Vice Chair Mooney said the measure would promote public awareness of nature-based approaches and authorize certain living-shoreline projects and related work within Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve; he noted any fiscal impacts to DEP would be absorbed within existing resources.

Committee members voiced general support, and the bill was reported favorably 18-0. The bill now proceeds to later committee action or floor consideration where permit and funding details will be further specified.