Polk County’s own Senate President Ben Albritton champions rural interests amid legislative push
TALLAHASSEE — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has voiced strong support for Senate Bill 56 (SB 56), legislation aimed at prohibiting geoengineering and weather modification practices within the state. The bill, which passed the Florida Senate on April 3 with a 28–9 vote, is now under consideration in the Florida House of Representatives.
SB 56, introduced by Senator Ileana Garcia (R-Miami), seeks to ban the release of chemicals or substances into the atmosphere intended to alter weather patterns, temperature, or sunlight intensity. The bill also proposes repealing existing statutes that permit state-licensed weather modification practices, such as cloud seeding. Violations would be classified as third-degree felonies, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison and fines reaching $100,000.
Governor DeSantis criticized the House’s version of the bill, HB 477, stating that it had been “gutted” and would effectively codify the practices the original bill aimed to prohibit. In a video posted on social media, DeSantis remarked, “They would actually codify the practice of geoengineering and weather modification. People got a lot of kooky ideas that they can get in and put things in the atmosphere to block the sun and save us from climate change. We’re not playing that game in Florida.”
Senator Garcia emphasized that the bill addresses environmental concerns raised by Floridians and aims to prevent unauthorized atmospheric interventions. She highlighted that while Florida has had licensing requirements for weather modification for over a decade, no applications have been submitted during that time.
Senate President Ben Albritton, a Republican from Wauchula whose district includes parts of Polk County, has been a vocal advocate for rural communities and environmental stewardship. In his inaugural address as Senate President, Albritton declared, “I’m a proud son of rural Florida, Florida’s Heartland, six generations deep.” He called for a “rural renaissance,” emphasizing the need for technological and economic advancements in rural areas. “Technological advances have led to tremendous economic growth and innovation in other parts of Florida. It’s rural Florida’s turn,” Albritton stated.    
Albritton also underscored the importance of protecting Florida’s natural resources, particularly its water supply. “Our water is invaluable. It’s invaluable to our residents, our businesses, our economy, and our precious ecosystems. It’s invaluable to Florida’s DNA,” he said, advocating for data-driven solutions to address environmental challenges. 
The bill has garnered attention from various quarters. Health & Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressed support for banning geoengineering, stating on social media that it “is a movement every MAHA needs to support.” 
Conversely, some industry representatives have voiced opposition. Adam Doricko, CEO of Rainmaker Corp., a cloud seeding company, argued against the bill, asserting that cloud seeding can help alleviate drought conditions by enhancing rainfall from existing clouds.
As SB 56 progresses through the legislative process, its implications for environmental policy and rural communities remain a focal point of discussion. Polk County constituents and other Floridians are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as the debate over weather modification practices continues in the state legislature.
