June 17, 2025 — “As a Floridian and member of the House Natural Resources Committee, I am committed to the responsible stewardship of our marine ecosystems and the safety of our waters,” said Rep. Webster. “This legislation mirrors current Florida law, which helps ensure the safety of Floridians and provide commonsense conservation of marine wildlife.”
The Florida Safe Seas Act of 2025 is supported by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Jupiter Dive Center, American Sportfishing Association, and Bonefish and Tarpon Trust.
“The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) applauds Congressmen Webster and Soto for introducing the Florida Safe Seas Act,” said Martha Guyas, ASA’s Southeast Fisheries Policy Director. “With depredation by sharks on the rise, anglers are increasingly concerned about the practice of shark feeding, which conditions sharks to associate humans and boats with food.”
“I wholeheartedly support the Florida Safe Seas Act that seeks to prohibit the feeding of sharks in federal waters off the State of Florida. This critical measure will protect shark populations, promote healthier marine ecosystems, and enhance the safety of our waters. By taking this step, we affirm our responsibility to preserve the delicate balance of ocean life and ensure a sustainable future for both marine wildlife and the communities that depend on them,” said Gerald Carroll, Owner of Jupiter Dive Center.
“Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) thanks Congressman Webster and Congressman Soto for their leadership in keeping Floridians safe. The Florida Safe Seas Act would prohibit the hand-feeding of sharks in federal waters off the coast of Florida, therefore mirroring the current prohibition in Florida state waters. The state of Florida prohibits the feeding of all wildlife, including alligators, on state property. The National Park Service prohibits the feeding of wildlife in national parks. This legislation is a common-sense approach to keeping Florida’s federal waters safe,” said Jessica McCawley, Director of the Division of Marine Fisheries Management.