Florida Rolls Back on Climate Change Actions Despite Heat Waves Threat

Florida is putting climate change efforts on the back burner to focus more on the use of natural gas despite threats of stronger heat waves.

Gov. Ron De Santis on Wednesday signed the ban on wind turbines and solar farms in the state and prevented the removal of gas appliances to what the governor refers to as "rejecting the agenda of the radical green zealots."

The state set will instead direct efforts on small-cell nuclear technology research, a venture that could take years before coming to fruition.

This is in addition to the legislation eliminating state requirements to hold climate change conferences in a move set to repeal "[President Barack] Obama-era climate policies."

The law is expected to take effect on July 1, in time for residents to feel the summer heat waves.

Florida Predicted to Suffer Worse Heat Waves in Summer

Florida was among the states most affected by the series of power outages two years ago as the Midwest's power grids lag behind the surge in electricity demand during the summer.

With spring heat waves reaching past 100 degrees, experts warn of hotter temperatures soon as warm winds sweep across coastline states like Florida.

Florida is among the increasingly few states that remain reliant on natural gas and fossil fuels amid the current administration's push toward clean energy.

Climate Advocates: Pro-Natural Gas Laws Not in the Best Interests of Floridians

In response to Florida's decision, climate advocates around the country are calling out against the legislature "not acting in the best interests of Floridians, but rather to protect profits for the fossil fuel industry."

A recent study from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology included Florida, along with Texas and Illinois, among the states expected to lose the most of "outdoor days" as temperature during summer continues to rise.