On March 7, 2024, the Florida legislature passed a bill that will eliminate references to climate change from most existing state laws. The bill deletes the phrase “climate change” in several bills and amends entire passages in others.
Changes include replacing language about curbing the impacts of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions with a statement on “[a] cost-effective supply of energy for the state in a manner that promotes the health and welfare of the public and economic growth.” The bill also eliminates a grant program that helped cities and school districts cut emissions.
Environmentalists have expressed concern that the removal of climate change terminology while retaining phrases like “sea level rise” indicates that state leaders are ignoring the causes and impacts of climate change for political purposes, even if they continue to address its consequences.
The bill is waiting to be signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis.
Update: Governor DeSantis signed HB 1645 into law on May 15, 2024.