A controversial Florida proposal, SB-56, aimed at restricting “geoengineering and weather modification activities,” cleared a key Senate committee on Tuesday, intensifying an already heated debate over climate intervention tactics.
During the Appropriations Committee on Agriculture, Environment, and General Government hearing, Sen. Ileana Garcia—who introduced SB-56—emphasized that the bill partially addresses concerns from residents who believe in so-called “chemtrails.” This widely debunked theory claims that airplanes intentionally release harmful chemicals into the atmosphere under the guise of condensation trails.
“Many of us senators are constantly fielding complaints about these contrails, or as some call them, ‘chemtrails,’” Garcia stated. “There’s a lot of skepticism.”
Her bill proposes a process where Floridians can report “suspected geoengineering activities” to the Department of Environmental Protection. If enacted, this would require additional staffing and resources to handle complaints and investigations. Violators of the law could be slapped with a second-degree misdemeanor and fines as high as $100,000.
SB-56 And The Fight Over Cloud-Seeding
At the core of SB-56 is its prohibition on state-sanctioned weather modification, such as cloud-seeding—a practice aimed at inducing precipitation. Augustus Doricko, representing the weather modification company Rainmaker, voiced concerns that this bill would hamper technological advancements designed to combat water shortages.
“I’m not here to oppose the intent behind SB-56—I actually think it’s well-meaning,” Doricko said. “But in its current form, this bill would hinder our efforts to address water scarcity and bring cutting-edge technology to Florida.”
Despite no formal requests for weather modification permits in Florida over the past decade, Garcia remained steadfast, arguing that “some type of activity” is taking place. She cited persistent concerns from her constituents as a justification for moving the bill forward.
Following brief debate, the committee approved SB-56, pushing it one step closer to becoming law. Whether this legislation will have any practical impact—or simply fuel more speculation—remains to be seen.
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