H.R. 2673, the Florida Coastal Protection Act, would amend federal law to prohibit oil and natural gas exploration and development in three specific ocean areas off Florida's coast: the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, the southern portion of the South Atlantic Planning Area, and the Straits of Florida Planning Area. The bill affects oil and gas companies seeking new leases or authorizations to operate in these waters, while protecting Florida's coastal interests from potential drilling activities. The prohibition would take effect upon the bill's enactment but would not cancel or affect any leases that were already issued before the law passes. No new federal funding or specific timelines are included in the legislation, as it primarily restricts future permitting authority rather than creating spending programs. The bill was introduced in April 2025 by Florida representatives from both parties and was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
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