Coastal communities have suffered for decades as a result of the massive, nutrient-laden freshwater discharges from Lake Okeechobee conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. While these discharges reduce the flood risk to communities south of Lake Okeechobee, they also cause considerable economic, environmental, and public health harms through toxic algal blooms that have increasingly plagued communities along the St. Lucie River and Indian River Lagoon, in particular.

The federal government has played a big role perpetuating the recurring environmental and economic crises caused by Lake Okeechobee discharges, but they aren't taking responsibility for the damage caused to our community. That's absolutely unacceptable.

The Federal Do No Harm Act allows the State of Florida and local governments to receive federal assistance in managing the aftermath of harmful algal bloom emergencies in ways that reduce the risk of more harmful impacts in the future, providing federal for the removal of toxic algal biomass and muck from affected waterways.

Together, we can make progress for our community to strengthen our economy and protect our environment.

Read the bill: