FL S1484

Establishes the Office of the Blue Economy within the Department of Economic Opportunity to support economic development related to ocean and coastal resources.

Defines "blue economy" to include maritime industries, fishing, aquaculture, tourism, floating housing, and recreational boating activities with focus on sustainable practices.

Office duties include connecting ocean resources to economic development strategies, surveying university research on blue economy topics, collaborating with industries to commercialize academic research, and publishing job growth and wage reports on the department website.

Requires the Office of Economic and Demographic Research to conduct biennial evaluations of the state's blue economy beginning January 1, 2024, including historical contributions, comparisons to other states, and analysis of emerging industries.

Takes effect July 1, 2023.