FL H6003

Repeals section 403.412(9)(a) of Florida Statutes, which previously prohibited local governments from recognizing or granting legal rights to natural environment elements such as plants, animals, bodies of water, or other non-human natural entities.

Allows local governments to recognize and grant legal rights to the natural environment through regulations, ordinances, codes, rules, comprehensive plans, charters, or other provisions of law.

Preserves the right of adversely affected parties to challenge consistency with comprehensive plans under section 163.3215 and to file injunctive relief actions regarding development agreements under section 163.3243.

Maintains standing for the Department of Legal Affairs, political subdivisions, municipalities, and state citizens to bring injunctive relief actions.

Takes effect July 1, 2022.