TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - Florida's springs, waterways and the northern Everglades would get new protection from pollution and groundwater pumping under a massive water bill that appears likely to become law soon.
The Florida Senate unanimously passed the measure (SB 552) Wednesday, despite criticism from Democrats and environmental groups who said it was weakened by loopholes as result of lobbying by industry and agriculture interests.
Senate President Andy Gardiner said he expects the House to pass an identical bill this week to send to Gov. Rick Scott for his signature.
Backers defeated on voice votes a number of floor amendments that reflected criticism from environmental organizations. They sought to strengthen the bill's requirements and deadlines for monitoring groundwater pumping, preventing pollution near springs and restoring natural water flows.
