New legislation introduced in the Florida Senate and House of Representatives could finally set a concrete timeline for the restoration of the Ocklawaha River, while offering Marion County significant influence over the process and a dedicated economic development program.

Senator Jason Brodeur filed Senate Bill 1066 on Monday, Jan. 5, followed by the introduction of the companion House Bill 981. Both bills are titled the “Northeast Florida Rivers, Springs, and Community Investment Act” and are scheduled for the 2026 legislative session…