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FLORIDA - Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has directed all public-use airports across the state to comply with a new law banning weather modification activities that went into effect on July 1st.
The law, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on June 20, prohibits the intentional release of chemicals, compounds, or substances into the atmosphere for the purpose of altering temperature, weather, climate, or sunlight intensity.
Under Senate Bill 56, violations of the law are classified as felonies, carrying fines up to $100,000 and potential prison sentences.
The law also forbids aircraft equipped for geoengineering or weather modification from landing, taking off, refueling, or stopping at any public-use airport in Florida.
Starting October 1st, airport operators must submit monthly reports to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) detailing any aircraft capable of weather modification.
Failure to comply could result in the loss of state funding.
Uthmeier emphasized the importance of the law in protecting public health and the environment, citing concerns over the potential risks of toxic particulates and agricultural contamination.
He also referenced flash floods in Texas, though experts have refuted any link between cloud seeding and the floods.
The Attorney General warned airports of strict enforcement, stating that violations would result in swift action.
He pledged cooperation with FDOT, the Department of Environmental Protection, and law enforcement to ensure compliance with the new law.
Airport operators were advised to consult FDOT’s July 11th guidance and familiarize themselves with the relevant Florida statutes.