FL S1456

Allows zoos and aquariums with Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation operating in Florida to apply to the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund for authorization to use state lands for enhanced research in husbandry, reproductive biology, endocrinology, nutrition, genetics, behavior, health, and ecology.

Applications must include information on project principals and sponsors, funding sources, land size and location, detailed project description, research animals to be used, and required infrastructure, with projects involving carnivores or primates prohibited.

The Board of Trustees may approve applications if the project is in the state's best interest, considering whether it is consistent with state land goals without causing harm and whether it creates positive economic impact through organizational alliances and partnerships.

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission must provide technical assistance to the Board of Trustees in reviewing applications and adopt rules to administer the program.

Effective date: July 1, 2012.