Growing up on the Indian River Lagoon Estuary in South Florida, I witnessed the heartbreaking effects of plastic pollution firsthand. This experience was not just a fleeting memory—it shaped my life, motivating me to pursue a degree in marine biology to stand up for our fragile ecosystems.

The Indian River Lagoon is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America, home to over 4,300 species of plants and animals. Unfortunately, this precious habitat, like many across Florida, is under siege from plastic waste. Every single day, plastic debris infiltrates our waterways, suffocating marine life and choking our native ecosystems.

Despite the growing crisis, Florida currently has a preemption law in place banning local governments from enacting their own bans on single-use plastics. This law ties the hands of communities that are eager to take action against plastic pollution. Why should we allow plastic waste to destroy our waterways when communities are willing and ready to make a difference?

The evidence is clear: Single-use plastics contribute significantly to environmental degradation. According to the World Wildlife Fund, an estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic enter our oceans annually. That's equivalent to dumping a garbage truck full of plastic into the ocean every minute. This pollution not only harms marine life but also affects human health, as plastics find their way into the food chain and, consequently, our bodies.

We have real solutions available right now. By repealing the preemption law, Florida can empower local governments to take meaningful action. Communities across the state wish to implement bans on single-use plastics, create effective waste management strategies, and promote the adoption of sustainable alternatives. Let's give them the opportunity to act and to protect our waterways for future generations.

Join me in urging Florida lawmakers to repeal the preemption law. With your support, we can pave the way for a clean and healthy future for Florida's precious ecosystems. Please sign this petition to bring about this crucial change. Together, we hold the power to protect our waterways and create a ripple effect that could be felt around the world.