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TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Department of
Environmental Protection (DEP) today released statistics
on the agency’s civil and criminal enforcement of
environmental laws. Regulatory enforcement jumped 30
percent over the last six years compared to the previous
six-year period and assessed penalties increased by
$11.2 million during the same timeframe.
“Compliance is the first step to providing long-term
protection for Florida’s natural resources,” said DEP
Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “Firm and consistent
enforcement of state and federal environmental laws
ensures more protection for public health, a stronger
economy and a better, cleaner environment for residents
and businesses.”
Highlights of DEP’s 6-Year Statistics
Between Fiscal Years 1999/2000 and 2004/2005, DEP
issued 6,150 consent orders – 1,439 more than during the
previous six years. Judicial settlements also increased
by 11.3 percent over the last six years. During the same
period, assessed penalties statewide increased by 40.1
percent compared to the previous six years, from $27.9
million to $39.1 million.
This year alone, DEP issued more than 1,100 consent
orders and assessed $7.3 million in enforcement
penalties.
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