TALLAHASSEE, Florida — Some environmentalists are backing a bill filed by a GOP state Senate committee chair that would protect local ordinances regulating plastic bags and foam containers.
Details: State Sen. Ileana Garcia (R-Miami) filed the bill that supporters say is a response to a Senate move last year to bar local governments from adopting ordinances to address plastic and foam pollution in waterways.
The bill, FL SB240 (26R), would preempt the regulation of such “auxiliary” containers to the state, while leaving in place local ordinances that already exist.
Furthermore, the measure would direct the state Department of Environmental Protection to develop a uniform ordinance by Oct. 1, 2027, to be used by cities and counties. The bill also directs DEP to develop a statewide marine debris reduction plan.
