Responding to widespread complaints about beachgoers being blocked by waterfront property owners, the Florida Senate on Thursday approved a bill to repeal a contentious 2018 law regulating “customary use” of beaches.

The repeal effort gained momentum after heated disputes in Walton County, where residents and visitors have faced restrictions accessing dry-sand areas of the beach. Bill sponsor Sen. Jay Trumbull, R-Panama City, whose district includes Walton County, said the legislation (SB 1622) would ensure that beaches remain “for everyone, not just a select few.”

Under the Florida Constitution, the public is guaranteed access to beaches below the mean high water line — typically the wet sand areas. However, “customary use” refers to the dry-sand zones above that line, which are often privately owned.

The 2018 law established a complex process requiring local governments to seek judicial approval before enforcing customary use ordinances. Critics argue it effectively limited public access and favored private property owners.

The Senate passed the repeal measure in a 35-2 vote, with only Sens. Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, and Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, opposing it. Gaetz warned the repeal could trigger new lawsuits and further politicize beach access issues.

“I don’t believe this bill solves anything,” Gaetz said.

A companion bill (HB 6043) has advanced through House committees and awaits a vote by the full House.

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