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DeSantis signs law limiting development in Florida's state parks after plan drew broad backlash
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FILE - Bonnie, a seven-month-old dachshund, licks Alexandra Maxwell's face as they a protest against Gov. Ron DeSantis' plan to develop state parks with business ventures such as golf courses, pickleball courts and large hotels, during a demonstration at Oleta River State Park, Aug. 27, 2024, in North Miami Beach, Fla. - photo by AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law Thursday curtailing what kind of development can happen in Florida’s prized state parks — giving his approval to legislation that came in direct response to his administration’s push to build golf courses, pickleball courts and hotels on conservation lands. Unlike issues of abortion, immigration, LGBTQ+ rights, race and guns that have divided voters, state parks apparently hold a place in the hearts of Floridians regardless of party.