Money, Mandates, and Water Management: Foreshadowing A Florida Disaster
21 Vermont Journal of Environmental Law 1 (2019)
St. Thomas University School of Law (Florida) Research Paper No. 2020-02
54 Pages Posted: 19 Nov 2020
Date Written: 2019
Abstract
Repeated failures to properly regulate, manage and maintain water resources and infrastructure creates enormous risks and consequences, across the US. and beyond. Applying those lessons, this study offacts, data, and law foreshadows a water management disaster in Florida. At the South Florida Water Management District, a critical regional agency, budget and staffing are now below 1996 levels. Regulatory scrutiny and enforcement have declined. Infrastructure is inadequately maintained. Rainy day reserve funds are kept at bare minimums. Important new laws are merely unfunded mandates. Florida officials must recognize the magnitude of the problems, offer meaningful leadership to restore water management finances and capabilities, and protect the public before the next flood, harmful algal bloom, or other disaster comes.
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