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Florida State Parks Proposal Faces Bipartisan Opposition

Proposal Would Affect State Parks From the Panhandle to the Everglades

Opponents Say Plan Would Commercialize Parks, Harm Environment

A proposal by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to build golf courses and lodges in state parks is facing fierce bipartisan opposition. The plan, which would affect state parks from the Panhandle to the Everglades, has drawn criticism from environmental groups, state lawmakers, and even some members of DeSantis' own party.

Opponents of the plan say it would commercialize state parks and harm the environment. They argue that the golf courses and lodges would attract more visitors to the parks, leading to increased traffic, noise, and pollution.

They also worry that the development would damage the natural habitats of plants and animals in the parks. Some of the parks that would be affected by the plan are home to endangered species, such as the Florida scrub-jay and the gopher tortoise.

DeSantis has defended the plan, saying it would generate revenue for the state and create jobs. He has also said that the golf courses and lodges would be built in a way that minimizes the impact on the environment.

However, opponents of the plan are not convinced. They say that the revenue generated by the golf courses and lodges would be outweighed by the costs of building and maintaining them. They also argue that the jobs created by the development would be low-paying and seasonal.

The bipartisan opposition to the plan is a rare show of unity in the Florida Legislature. Republicans and Democrats have both come out against the proposal, and it is unclear whether DeSantis will be able to get it passed.