FL S0992

Amends operation requirements for Phase I and Phase II of the C-51 reservoir project if state funds are appropriated, requiring the South Florida Water Management District to maximize reduction of high-volume Lake Okeechobee releases to estuaries and harmful discharges to the Lake Worth Lagoon to the extent practicable.

Requires Phase I operation to comply with any operation and maintenance agreement adopted by the district.

Mandates water made available by the reservoir phases be used for natural systems in addition to permitted water supply amounts.

Allows water from Lake Okeechobee to support consumptive use permits only if in accordance with district rules.

Authorizes the district to enter capacity allocation agreements with water supply entities and request loan repayment waivers from the Department of Environmental Protection, with the department determining if reasonable value is received and the district bearing no repayment responsibility for waived portions.