A Florida meteorologist has strongly criticized Governor Ron DeSantis for enacting a series of bills known as the “Don’t Say Climate Change” laws.
Last week, Governor DeSantis took action by signing three laws that have significant implications for climate policy and clean energy. One of these laws aims to remove the term “climate change” from various sections of state law. Additionally, a 16-year-old policy that considered climate change as a priority in making energy policy decisions has been repealed. These legislative measures will undoubtedly shape the future of climate action in the state.
The bills also include provisions that forbid the installation of wind farms near coastlines and offshore areas. Additionally, they aim to safeguard against potential bans on gas appliances.
NBC6 meteorologist Steve MacLaughlin expressed concern about the state government of Florida rolling back climate change legislation and language while the state is grappling with issues such as wildfires, flooding, and unaffordable living conditions.
According to Mr. MacLaughlin, despite experiencing record heat, flooding, rainfall, insurance rates, and the widespread death of corals, the state of Florida has introduced this legislation.
Addressing his viewers, the meteorologist emphasized the importance of the right to vote as the most powerful solution to climate change. He urged them to keep in mind that they already hold this solution in the palm of their hands.
“We urge you to conduct thorough research and be aware that there are candidates who acknowledge the reality of climate change and support potential solutions,” he emphasized.
The laws known as “Don’t Say Climate Change” laws have gained a similar reputation to Florida’s 2022 “Don’t Say Gay” law, which prohibited discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grade classrooms.
The scientific evidence is clear and overwhelming: our planet is facing a global climate crisis. This crisis is causing the Earth to heat up and is leading to extreme weather events that pose a significant threat to communities, especially those located on coastlines and islands.
Florida, known for its susceptibility to sea-level rise and extreme weather, faces a significant challenge. The Florida Climate Center predicts that sea levels could surge by up to a foot within the next three decades. Consequently, millions of coastal residents, including Donald Trump, a strong supporter of Governor DeSantis, are in jeopardy of losing their homes.
Mr. Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, situated in the low-lying southern region of Florida, may face the threat of partial submersion due to rising sea levels as early as 2045.
“The legislation I signed today aims to prevent windmills from being installed on our beaches, ensure a steady supply of gas for our vehicles, and protect our state from undue influence from China,” Mr. DeSantis declared passionately last week. “With this legislation, we are restoring a sense of rationality to our energy policies and rejecting the extreme agenda of radical environmentalists.”
DeSantis’ team took to social media to ridicule the reports regarding the meteorologist’s statement, dismissing him as a “media activist.”