Christian Ziegler | Joe Gruters

Joe Gruters begins symbolic cleanup of cigarette butts off beaches

Latest News, Water Quality

The Ocean Conservancy, Dr. Beach and Jennifer Ahearn-Koch celebrated the new state law. Sen. Joe Gruters celebrated a new law going into effect that could mean an end to cigarette butts on Sarasota’s beaches. The cleanup for Lido Beach started — at least symbolically...

Joe Gruters’ beach smoking bill ready for Senate floor

Latest News, Water Quality

‘This bill is about freedom.’ Could Florida beaches soon become cigarette butt-free? The Senate Rules Committee Tuesday advanced legislation (SB 224) that would give counties and cities the power to regulate smoking in public parks. The bill now moves...

Sewage spills prompt Joe Gruters to ‘bring hammer down’ on local governments

Local governments fear such penalties will actually hinder repair abilities. Sen. Joe Gruters’ legislation increasing sewage spill fines by a minimum of 50% is ready for a floor vote in the Florida Senate. “Everybody in Florida is part of the problem, but government...