FL H1273

Exempts the Save the Manatee Trust Fund from service charges assessed against state trust funds until July 1, 2026.

Requires the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to contract with an independent, qualified party to conduct a manatee speed zone effectiveness study, with findings submitted to the Governor and Legislature by January 1, 2019.

Mandates the commission conduct a statewide manatee distribution and abundance survey by July 1, 2018, achieving a scientifically reliable population estimate, with authority to repeat surveys through July 1, 2026.

Authorizes expenditure of Save the Manatee Trust Fund money to conduct the speed zone effectiveness study and manatee distribution surveys and reports.

Takes effect July 1, 2016.