FL H0981

Creates s. 373.464, F.S., requiring DEP to hire a project lead by August 31, 2026, to oversee restoration of the Ocklawaha River to pre-Cross Florida Barge Canal conditions, with project plan due July 1, 2027, and restoration completion targeted for December 31, 2032

Establishes the 20-member Northeast Florida River and Springs Recreation and Economic Development Advisory Council by October 31, 2026, with appointments from the Governor, Legislature, and county commissions from Putnam, Marion, Clay, and St. Johns Counties, plus a Naval Air Station Jacksonville representative

Requires DEP to develop and implement an outdoor recreation plan by January 1, 2028, in collaboration with FWC and local governments, to expand river and springs access for fishing, hunting, swimming, paddling, and hiking, with state-owned land projects to be completed by December 31, 2035

Directs DEP to create a grant program by January 1, 2028, for river communities in Clay, Marion, Putnam, and St. Johns Counties to implement outdoor recreation projects

Requires the Department of Commerce to develop an economic development program for Marion and Putnam Counties to encourage job creation, capital investment, and economic diversification, contingent on commencement of the restoration project plan