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HB 371

Nature-based Methods for Improving Coastal Resilience

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Fabián Basabe and 1 co-sponsor

Florida bill authorizing nature-based coastal protection methods like mangrove and reef restoration to reduce storm and erosion damage, but died in legislature without passage.

Died on Second Reading Calendar
#reclamation #anduse
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Bill Summary · HB 371

Legislative bill overview

HB 371 would authorize Florida to implement nature-based coastal resilience methods—such as living shorelines, mangrove restoration, and oyster reef creation—as alternatives or complements to traditional hard infrastructure for protecting coastal communities from erosion and storm surge. The bill establishes a framework for state support and coordination of these ecological approaches to climate adaptation.

Why is this important

Florida faces acute coastal vulnerability due to sea level rise, saltwater intrusion, and increased storm intensity. Nature-based solutions offer potential co-benefits including habitat restoration, improved water quality, and lower long-term maintenance costs compared to seawalls and bulkheads, while addressing both environmental and public safety concerns.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and timeline uncertainty: Natural systems require longer development periods and may have higher upfront costs than conventional engineering, creating budgetary and liability concerns for municipalities
  • Effectiveness variability: Nature-based methods perform differently across geographic conditions; some coastal areas may require hybrid approaches or prove unsuitable for ecological restoration
  • Property rights and land acquisition: Implementing large-scale restoration projects may require acquiring private coastal property or easements, triggering disputes over compensation and regulatory authority

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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