Florida Senate Approves Bill Blocking Development in State Parks

A Florida Senate committee advanced a bill aimed at preventing the construction of golf courses, pickleball courts, luxury resorts, and other commercial amenities in state parks, following widespread public opposition to previous development proposals by the DeSantis administration. The committee rejected an amendment from Sen. Joe Gruters that would have allowed certain recreational facilities if they did not cause 'substantial harm' to natural resources, a threshold critics argued was too vague. The original bill, sponsored by Sen. Gayle Harrell, was crafted in response to last year's failed 'Great Outdoors Initiative,' which proposed significant new developments at several parks and met with protests statewide. Supporters say the bill draws a clear line to protect parks' natural habitats and historic sites, ensuring commercial development remains off-limits. Gruters argued for more flexibility to add amenities in already disturbed areas, but lawmakers and environmental groups insisted strong protections are necessary given last year's public outcry. The bill now heads to the full Senate for consideration.