Florida’s U.S. Senators Rick Scott and Ashley Moody announced the reintroduction of the Miccosukee Reserved Area Amendments Act designating the Osceola Camp in Everglades National Park as a part of the Miccosukee Reservation. The legislation will help optimize water flow into Everglades National Park while taking steps to protect Osceola Camp against flooding risks. Congressman Carlos Gimenez is leading this legislation in the House of Representatives.
This legislation is supported by the Miccosukee Tribe.
“The Miccosukee Tribe’s Osceola Camp has been a home and site of cultural significance for generations of Tribal members and I am proud to introduce this bill with Senator Ashley Moody and our colleagues to ensure its protection,” Scott said in an official statement. “I deeply appreciate the partnership I have had with the Miccosukee Tribe as Florida’s Governor, and will continue to support their interests as U.S. Senator.”
Senator Ashley Moody added, “As a 5th generation Floridian, protecting the state’s natural beauty is one of my top priorities. This legislation makes great strides in ensuring that the benefits of Everglades restoration can be achieved while also protecting Miccosukee Tribe members who call the Everglades home.”
Congressman Carlos Gimenez, a Republican from the impacted district who is leading the push for the US House version of the bill, praised Moody and Scott’s efforts..
“As the Representative for the Miccosukee Tribe, I have seen firsthand the Tribe’s dedication to being outstanding stewards of the Everglades, as well as their role as a vital community partner, fostering jobs and opportunities for South Floridians,” Gimenez said. “I am eager to continue collaborating with the Tribe to protect our cherished River of Grass and integrate the Osceola Camp into the Miccosukee Reserved Area.”
