FL H0975

Defines "water authority" as an independent special district created by special act to control and conserve freshwater resources, excluding water management districts.

Authorizes the Division of Historical Resources to issue permits for excavation, surface reconnaissance, and archaeological activities on land owned by water authorities, in addition to state-owned lands and designated archaeological landmarks.

Prohibits unauthorized archaeological activities on water authority lands and establishes criminal penalties: first-degree misdemeanor for non-excavation violations and third-degree felony for excavation violations, with mandatory forfeiture of specimens and equipment.

Allows the Division to impose administrative fines up to $500 per day for unauthorized exploration or salvage of artifacts and seek injunctive relief against violators of archaeological protections on state and water authority lands.

Updates section 1004.56 to reference the correct subsection regarding specimen ownership under the Florida Museum of Natural History provisions and becomes effective July 1, 2013.