Florida Governor Signs Bill Rolling Back Renewable Energy Goals

Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill, HB 1645, last week that revamps Florida's energy policies. The law makes several changes to the state's energy policies, including repealing state renewable-energy goals. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' Office of Energy has proposed a rule that would repeal a rule that included the goals, stating that they are "no longer necessary." The law will take effect on July 1. The bill removes references to reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and prohibits potential offshore wind-energy generation. Instead, it calls for encouraging a "cost-effective and affordable energy supply." Governor DeSantis defended the decision in a social-media post, stating that state officials are "restoring sanity in our approach to energy and rejecting the agenda of the radical green zealots." However... opponents of the law argue that Florida should not reduce its emphasis on addressing climate change.

The Cleo Institute, "a non-profit organization that works on climate-change issues.".. stated on its website that the legislative shift underscores a growing divide between state policies and public concern over climate change.

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DeSantis's 'Freedom Summer' means no rainbow lights for Florida bridges - The Washington Post

As part of what Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) is calling "Freedom Summer," his Transportation Department has told cities across the state that if they want to light up their bridges at night, they can only use the colors red, white and blue.

The order — which was shared by Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue on social media recently — means that bridges across the state that normally illuminate in colorful arrays of light to mark holidays or awareness events won't be able to use any other colors from May 27 through Sept. 2.

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis receives 27 bills. Here's what happens if they become law

He has until June 5 to sign these bills. Otherwise, any unsigned bills will be automatically vetoed.

Specifically, the bill would require HOAs to provide a physical or digital copy of their rules and covenants to each of its members by Oct. 1 — as well as to all new members going forward.

House Bill 141 aims to eliminate several requirements related to the Regional Rural Development Grants Program .

That program is meant to help rural communities use their resources to attract new businesses into their areas.

House Bill 149 aims to increase the limit for continuing contracts covered by the Consultants' Competitive Negotiation Act (CCNA).

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