Florida Land Acquisition Trust Fund – Amendment I, Florida Constitution, November 2014

The following passed with over 75% of Florida voters supporting it in November, 2014:

Water and Land Conservation – Dedicates funds to acquire and restore Florida conservation and recreation lands

Ballot summary:  Funds the Land Acquisition Trust Fund to acquire, restore, improve, and manage conservation lands including wetlands and forests; fish and wildlife habitat; lands protectiong water resources and drinking water sources, including the Everglads, and the water quality of rivers, lakes, and stream; beaches and shores; outdoor recreational lands; working farms and ranches; and historic or geologic sites, by dedicating 33 percent of net revenues from existing excise tax on documents for 20 years.

The text:

“Section 28:  Land Acquisition Trust Fund

a) Effective on July 1 of the year following passage of this amendment by the voters, and for a period of 20 years after that effective date, the Land Acquisition Trust Fund shall receive no less than 33 percent of net revenues derived from the existing excise tax on documents, as defined in the statutes in effect on January 1, 2012, as amended from time to time, or any successor or replacement tax, after the Department of Revenue first deducts a service charge to pay the costs of the collection and enforcement of the excise tax on documents.

b) Funds in the Land Acquisition Trust Fund shall be expended only for the following purposes:

1) As provided by law, to finance or refinance: the acquisition and improvement of land, water areas, and related property interests, including conservation easements, and resources for conservation lands including wetlands, forests, and fish and wildlife habitat; wildlife managemetn areas; lands that protect water resources and drinking water sources, including lands protecting the water quality and quantity of rivers, lakes, streams, springsheds, and lands providing recharge for groundwater and aquifer systems; lands in the Everglades Agricultural Area and the Everglades Protection Area, as defined in Article II, Section 7(b); beaches and shores; outdoor recreation lands, including recreational trails, parks and urban open space; rural landscapes; working farms and ranches; historic or geologic sites; together with managment, restoration of natural systems, and the enhancement of public access or recreational enjoyment of conservation lands.

2) To pay the debt service on bonds issued pursuant to Article VII, Section 1(e).

c) The moneys deposited into the Land Acquisition Trust Fund, as defined by the statues in effect on January 1, 2012, shall not be or become commingled with the General Revenue Fund of the state.”

 

 

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