Stop Poisoning Florida Act

This bill would stop the Army Corps of Engineers from releasing water from Lake Okeechobee through the S-308 and S-80 lock and dam when toxin levels from harmful algae (microcystins) are above the Environmental Protection Agency’s safe limit for swimming. Tests by the Army, another federal agency, or the State of Florida can be used to decide if the water is too contaminated. The goal is to prevent polluted water from being sent downstream when it isn’t safe for people.

Key points:

• Who is affected: People who live near or use waterways connected to Lake Okeechobee, including boaters and swimmers.
• What changes: Discharges through S-308 and S-80 must be blocked when microcystins exceed EPA’s recreational water guideline.
• How it’s decided: Based on water tests by federal or Florida state officials.
• When it applies: Whenever test results show toxin levels above the EPA threshold or any updated standard.