Update as of February 12 at 5:00 PM | Tallahassee, FL
Captains For Clean Water strongly opposes Section 47 of HB 433 and Section 48 of SB 290, provisions that expand Florida’s agricultural disparagement law in ways that threaten free speech, public accountability, and the ability of citizens, scientists, guides, advocates, and journalists to speak honestly about environmental and public-health concerns.
These provisions would make it legally and financially risky to criticize agricultural products or practices—even when statements are true—by expanding liability and adding one-way attorney fees. We believe this creates a chilling effect on speech protected by the First Amendment and disproportionately benefits powerful special interests at the expense of the public.
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For background and deeper reading:
Everything you need to know about Florida SB 290 / HB 433
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On Feb. 10, the Senate Rules Committee unanimously adopted an amendment filed by Senator Jonathan Martin removing Section 48 from SB 290, the disparagement provision that raised serious concerns about free speech and public transparency.
This action followed three consecutive weeks of sustained public engagement, with Captains For Clean Water, dozens of fishing guides, and health advocates associated with the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement repeatedly traveling to Tallahassee. Many took time off work, drove hours, and prepared remarks for committee hearings to oppose the language, packing the hearing room.
Captains CEO Capt. Daniel Andrews addressed the committee, thanking members for their decision and for upholding Floridians’ constitutional rights.
The amendment followed significant public engagement, including 10,000 emails and 2,000 phone calls from Captains supporters, making clear the provision could not advance without scrutiny. The legislative session continues through March 13 and Captains remains vigilant to ensure the disparagement language is not reintroduced in another form.
Opposition to the disparagement provision has drawn a broad coalition, including health and wellness advocates aligned with the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement and members of the outdoor and conservation community across the nation: fishing guides, anglers, outdoor brands, and environmental advocates.