Florida House Approves Unanimous Oil Drilling Ban Near Estuarine Reserves

The Florida House has unanimously passed a bipartisan bill (HB 1143) that would ban oil drilling, exploration, and production within 10 miles of the state's three National Estuarine Research Reserves, including the Apalachicola River, in response to a controversial permit for an exploratory oil well in Calhoun County. Lawmakers cited the lingering economic and environmental scars from the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill as a key motivator, emphasizing the threat posed to local economies, tourism, and wildlife should another spill occur. The legislation is intended to protect crucial habitats that support thousands of jobs in tourism and seafood industries, and has garnered widespread community and legislative support. The bill now advances to the Senate, where a less restrictive companion measure is under consideration, leaving open the question of whether a compromise can be reached before the legislative session ends. Debate continues over whether the Senate version offers sufficient protections, with advocates urging lawmakers to ensure strong safeguards for Florida's water-dependent communities. The push for the ban reflects broad public concern over the risks associated with oil and gas drilling near sensitive natural areas.