FT MYERS— While the citizen-initiated Florida Right to Clean Water effort to place a constitutional amendment for the right to clean and healthy waters on the 2024 ballot gathered impressive support, the effort has fallen short of the nearly 900,000 validated signatures required to be placed on the ballot for a vote next year. Organizers say they will now shift their efforts to work toward success in 2026.
“The dedication of the initiative’s more-than-100 active volunteers and active supporting organizations has been nothing short of exemplary,” said Joseph Bonasia.
Throughout December and January, the FL RTCW citizen’s initiative will be securing professional campaign services and fundraising consultants to ensure success for the 2026 campaign. All are invited to provide insights and leads during this time through this form.
"Support for the right to clean and healthy waters continues to grow among Florida’s leaders across the aisle, including U.S. Representative Brian Mast, Florida Representatives Anna Eskamani and Lindsay Cross, and other experienced clean water advocates like Jacqui Thurlow-Lippisch, Jane West, Gil Smart, John Cassani, Blair Wickstrom, and so many more," organizers wrote in a press release. "It has become obvious to all that there is no partisan divide when it comes to clean water. Rather, it is a fight between Floridians and the politics of state-sanctioned pollution. This is why Florida needs to clarify and enshrine its priorities – clean water first – in its constitution."
Details of the 2026 Success Plan will be announced on Jan. 25. Subscribers to the campaign’s website, www.FloridaRightToCleanWater.