Issue Position: Preserving Our Environment

Issue Position

Kathleen knows that Florida's economy is inextricably linked to our environment. Investments to ensure that our environment is protected for current and future generations to come, along with statewide comprehensive water policies, transform the way we conserve our most valuable natural resources. As a State Representative, Kathleen co-sponsored the Legacy Florida initiative to create an annual dedicated funding source to protect Florida's environment by setting aside up to $200 million a year for Everglades restoration, $50 million for Florida springs, and $5 million for Lake Apopka (2016, HB 989).

Over the last six years, Kathleen helped allocate nearly $1.1 billion for Everglades restoration projects. Additionally, with the $100 million the state has allocated to rehabilitation of the dike, the Herbert Hoover Dike rehabilitation will be completed by 2023. Kathleen has also worked to provide over $200 million to the Kissimmee River Restoration Project, which is nearing completion and will attenuate the amount of water flowing into Lake Okeechobee by restoring more than 12,000 acres of wetlands. All of these projects will gradually improve the situation and reduce nutrient levels and temperature variations in our rivers.

Source