January 25, 2016

Tallahassee, Fla. – The Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) today released the following statement attributable to its Senior Vice President of State and Federal Affairs Brewster Bevis regarding Senate Bill 318, which is sponsored by Senator Garrett Richter (R-Naples), following its passage in the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government.

“Senator Richter has worked tirelessly on this good legislation, making a number of changes to the language as he continues to hear concerns and work with Floridians and third-party groups.  These changes include an amendment adopted today that clarifies the regulation of oil and gas are preempted to the state; but, also ensures counties and municipalities are allowed to adopt and enforce zoning or land use requirements which may restrict the exploration and production of oil and gas, so long as it does not effectively impose a ban.

“If successful this session, this good legislation will also ensure that the responsible onshore oil and gas industry is allowed to continue to operate, but does so in a commonsense, regulated manner under an empowered DEP, which will be granted increased oversight authority over all high-pressure well stimulation techniques.

“While AIF continues to have concerns about the inclusion of a study, as we find it unnecessary; overall, we are supportive of Senator Richter’s SB 318, and thank him for his work on this good bill, as well as his willingness to work with concerned parties throughout the process.”

For more information on AIF, please visit AIF.com and follow @VoiceofFLBiz.

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