South Florida Ecosystem Enhancement Act of 2023

The South Florida Ecosystem Enhancement Act of 2023 establishes a new Environmental Protection Agency program focused on monitoring and restoring water quality, wetlands, and marine habitats across South Florida, including the Everglades, coral reefs, and key water bodies like Lake Okeechobee. It creates two grant programs: one for ecosystem restoration projects (prioritizing nature-based features and limiting federal funding for projects already receiving state water infrastructure support) and another for environmental education initiatives targeting schools and public engagement. Eligible recipients include state/local governments, tribes, nonprofits, and schools, with specific funding allocations requiring at least 50% of restoration funds and 1% for education grants annually. The bill authorizes $50 million yearly from 2024-2028 to support these efforts, with strict rules on project locations and federal cost-sharing.