arts
South Florida shark diving operators push back against Florida Safe Seas Act: "There's a huge double standard here"
By Bri Buckley at CBS4 Miami
· June 16, 2026
· 3 min read
Shark diving operators in South Florida are raising concerns that a bill currently moving through Congress could wipe out their industry.The Florida Safe Seas Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this month, is now headed to the Senate for consideration. If enacted, the legisl
Key takeaway The Florida Safe Seas Act, which passed the U.
Why this matters in The Miami
The debate over the Florida Safe Seas Act has significant implications for Miami's tourism industry and the broader ecosystem of South Florida. Shark diving operators in the region, including those in Miami-Dade County, could be severely impacted if the legislation passes, potentially leading to economic losses and job displacement. The industry's argument that it promotes a "natural guardianship" for sharks and educates people about their importance is particularly relevant in Miami, given the city's proximity to the ocean and its reputation as a hub for marine tourism. Furthermore, the fact that shark diving operators typically operate far offshore, away from beachgoers in areas like Miami Beach, raises questions about the effectiveness of the proposed ban in improving safety. As the Senate considers the bill, Miami residents and stakeholders should pay close attention to the potential consequences for the local economy and the marine environment.
About this story
Original reporting by CBS4 Miami . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: arts ·
Published: June 16, 2026 ·
Source: CBS4 Miami ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Shark diving operators in South Florida are raising concerns that a bill currently moving through Congress could wipe out their industry.The Florida Safe Seas Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this month, is now headed to the Senate for consideration. If enacted, the legisl
When was this published? This article was first published on June 16, 2026 by CBS4 Miami and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Bri Buckley at CBS4 Miami. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more arts coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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