TALLAHASSEE, Florida — A Senate committee on Tuesday backed a major state parks protection bill — even as a key lawmaker opened the door to preserving some recreational activities the legislation may threaten.
State Sen. Jason Brodeur, the Republican chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government, said he supports language that would “balance” recreational interests with conservation, even though environmentalists want more restrictive language.
Lawmakers introduced the legislation after Gov. Ron DeSantis last summer proposed developing new golf courses, pickleball courts and lodges in state parks. Brodeur said he wouldn’t want golf courses or hotels in parks, but he thinks disc golf, pavilions and picnic tables are appropriate.
“We want to strike a balance that says yes, we want to make sure we are preserving the parks for many future generations,” Brodeur said after the meeting. “But, at the same time, we recognize they are meant to be used.”
