Representative John Rutherford (R-FL) has introduced bipartisan legislation codifying President Donald Trump's moratorium on drilling for oil off the Florida coast into law.
During his first term, President Trump issued a moratorium on drilling, leasing, seismic testing, and exploration on Florida's Gulf and Atlantic coasts (along with the Straits) until 2032, a move that has largely been approved by Florida lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, as Florida heavily relies on its beaches for state revenue.
As a supporter of the moratorium, Rep. Rutherford's Preserving Recreation, Oceans, Tourism, Environment, and Coastal Towns in (PROTECT) Florida Act codifies the moratorium into law.
"Florida's coastal environment is a central part of our state's economy and way of life," Rep. Rutherford in a statement. "Floridians have spoken, and they do not want drilling off their coast. That is why I am proud to introduce the PROTECT Florida Act with my colleagues from Florida. This commonsense, bipartisan bill will ensure our environment is preserved for generations to come."
Joining him are Representatives Jimmy Patronis (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Mike Haridopolos (R-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), and Carlos Gimenez (R-FL).
Rutherford's moratorium bill is the latest effort to permanently enshrine key elements of the Trump agenda into law, following Rep. Luna's bill in April to codify the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) reforms.
"For the first time in decades, we are seeing a successful effort to save valuable taxpayer dollars from the federal government's rampant waste, fraud, and abuse," said Rep. Luna. "My legislation will ensure that Americans can continue to enjoy a more efficient government and less burdensome regulatory environment. The American people deserve no less!"
