Wetlands are under threat from every level of government, yet they remain vital to the health and resilience of our communities. Congress is considering a bill that could put Florida’s wetlands and wildlife at risk.
The legislation would bring back a controversial state program that was previously shut down by a federal court for failing to protect endangered species and wetlands. The program would allow construction in wetlands without following key environmental protections.
In 2020, Florida was given control over certain wetland permits. The state’s program weakened key environmental protections, including safeguards for endangered species in one of the country's most biodiverse states.
In 2021, a coalition of environmental groups, including Miami Waterkeeper, challenged the Environmental Protection Agency’s approval, arguing that it violated federal environmental laws. Consequently, in 2024, a federal court shut down the program for endangering wetlands and wildlife.
Now, Congress is considering reviving it, ignoring the court’s decision and potentially threatening Florida’s wetlands, wildlife, and clean water. We are deeply grateful to Miami Waterkeeper for leading the charge to defend essential federal protections that safeguard these irreplaceable ecosystems. Let's join them!
Click here to take action and tell Congress to reject this effort and stand up for Florida’s wetlands and endangered species.
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