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Legislation unanimously passed by the Florida legislature would require public warnings to be issued within 24 hours, if beach waters or other public bathing areas don't meet Florida Department of Health quality standards.
Sewage spills, leaking septic tanks and other pollutants can make water unsafe and lead to illness.
Currently, the Department of Health is authorized to, but not required to, enforce rules to protect the health and safety of those using public waters in the state.
Under the bill, beaches would be required to close if they fail to meet water quality standards.
State Senator Lori Berman was the bill sponsor.
“It does seem common sense, but we have had a lot of spills in the last few years that have not been addressed within 24 hours. These are really dangerous situations, when you have this bacteria in the water. People can get sick, and we want to make sure to prevent that.”
If signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, the measure would take effect July 1st.